Student Spotlight: Isaac Howe

Name: Isaac Howe

Age: 18

Grade: Senior at West High

What instrument do you play? Cello

Why did you decide to start lessons? My mom really wanted me to play piano, but I did not want to. So, I think she showed me a video of Two Cellos and I was hooked.

How long have you been taking lessons? Since first grade, so since I was seven years old.

Do you play any other instruments? I used to play trombone, and I am capable of playing piano (I’ve never taken lessons, but I like playing around on it).

How often do you practice? On average three times a week for 30-45 minute sessions. High school is busy, so it’s challenging to keep a good practice schedule.

What is one of your favorite pieces you have learned so far? It’s between the Bach Sarabande from Suite No. 1 in G Major and Elegie by Faure. I’m in the process of working on the Saint Saens cello concerto, and I’m pretty sure when I’m done with that it will also be up there.

What advice do you have for other musicians studying your instrument? Patience is important. Also, be willing to experiment and push through the rough spots and find the joy in playing. It’s easy to get frustrated, especially as a younger player.

What do you enjoy about lessons? I like coming in and talking about life. Also, playing and having mature conversations about the literature, how to explore it, and how to express what I want to play.

What do you like about Dynamic Music Studios? I like that it’s run by people I know! I also like that it’s not a corporation. It’s not a big company and feels like a family.

What goals do you have for lessons? Finish the Saint Saens A Minor concerto, have a senior recital, and start the Haydn C Major cello concerto after my senior recital.

What is your favorite musical/orchestral work/piano piece/artist? So many! Danzon No. 2 by Arturo Marquez, Serenade for Strings by Tchaikovsky (all four movements are great), and anything by Hans Zimmer.

What are some other activities in which you participate? Soccer

Isaac is a student of Christina Gentzsch one of the co-owners and cello instructor at Dynamic Music Studios in Coralville, Iowa.