Christchurch
Cello Lessons | Artist development, Theory Lessons, Music And Movement For Under Fives, Online Lessons
Bio
In 2022, Portia Bell received a scholarship as the Principal Cellist of the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra Virtuosi Chamber Ensemble. Currently, she is studying cello performance at the University of Otago with Heleen du Plessis where she is also a cellist in the Dunedin Symphony Orchestra. In 2025, she Placed 2nd in the Dunedin Concerto Competition, and can be seen as an active young soloist and chamber musician across New Zealand. In particular, she is commended for her performance of Dvořák’s Cello Concerto No.2 in B minor with the Nelson Symphony Orchestra in 2025. As reviewed by Lucy Rainey (The Press),“Portia Bell gave a passionate reading of Dvořák’s Cello Concerto, her tone rich and lyrical. She navigated the complex textures with ease, engaging in a musical conversation with the orchestra that highlighted her maturity and musican sensitivity.”
Despite being located in Dunedin, Portia also offers lessons to students in Christchurch (Burnside/Bryndwr) on a regular basis as well as online lessons nationally.
A 3/4 size cello is also available for rent.
Teaching Info
Right from the start, students will be comprehensively educated on the fundamentals of movement and coordination, resonance, tonality, intonation, phrasing, articulation, dynamics, posture, music theory, and technique whilst regularly moving through repertoire in an enjoyable way. Extended techniques including vibrato, spiccato, ricochet, and Sautillé will be taught for intermediate to advanced students.
Portia Bell has several years of teaching experience and tailors how she is taught to best suit each student. From 2025, she is also a music tutor at Saturday Morning Music Classes (SMMC), George St Normal School, Dunedin.