Private Instruction
Suzuki Education
Group Classes
MM, DePaul University
BM in Performance, Oberlin Conservatory
BA in Philosophy, Villanova University
Recordings:
Last Flight Out (Steve Dawson and Funeral Bonsai Wedding), Chicago Sinfonietta (Cedille Records, Project W, Delights and Dances, Coleridge Taylor-Perkinson, African Heritage Symphonic Series)
Baroque Band (Cedille Records, Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber’s Mensa Sonora and the complete overtures by English composer Maurice Greene)
Rock groups Mono, Poi Dog Pondering, and the Breeders
Vannia Phillips is passionate about playing and teaching the viola and violin. Her teaching philosophy embraces the importance of helping students find a relaxed, balanced posture while inspiring them to explore their own creative voice. She enjoys working with students of varying ages and abilities.
Vannia is also a certified yoga teacher. Her hatha yoga training has much in common with the Suzuki philosophy. Both philosophies emphasize the importance of finding balanced, healthy alignment, yet they are centered around the belief that teachers are nurturing the whole person.
Member, Suzuki Association of the Americas
Member, Chicago Musicians' Union
Member of the Chicago Sinfonietta
Interests/hobbies outside of music:
I love to garden, cook, and hang out with my husband and dog. I practice yoga regularly in addition to loving my regular sports conditioning classes. I also started taking banjo lessons!
Two of my most memorable moments:
Playing in the Chicago Opera Theater production of John Adam's The Flowering Tree. John Adams himself conducted! His opera was phenomenal. He was a great conductor and such an inspiring person!
My second most memorable moment was getting to play onstage with Stevie Wonder. I do not think I have ever smiled so much in my life! He was someone I listened to growing up, and getting to see his artistry in person was an unforgettable experience.