​When you study viola at CIM, you'll have a wealth of opportunities to develop your artistry. You'll study with a​ ​highly experienced performer and teacher​ who is dedicated to helping you reach your full potential as a musician and a violist.

Throughout your time at CIM, you'll perform in solo recitals, chamber ensembles, orchestra, master classes and repertoire classes to prepare you for a career as a professional musician. ​And ​you'll be surrounded by other high level students who are striving to be their best.

Alumni Success

Meet Wesley Collins

wesley collins

Wesley Collins is principal violist of The Cleveland Orchestra. He earned a bachelor's degree in viola performance from CIM in 2007, studying with Robert Vernon. He previously served as a member of the viola section of the Boston Symphony Orchestra beginning in 2012 and was promoted to third chair viola there in 2014.  Before joining the Boston Symphony Orchestra, he had been a member of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra 2008-12.

CIM Viola Alumni include:

  • Leah Ferguson, Boston Symphony Orchestra
  • Abigail Evans, Associate Principal Viola, National Symphony
  • Ayn Balija, Lecturer of Viola at the University of Virginia
  • Karina Schmitz, Principal Violist of Apollo's Fire
  • Bonnie Yeager, violist with The Phoenix Symphony
  • Naimah Bilal, Artistic Director, Cincinnati Symphony 
  • Timothy D. Zeithamel, Associate Principal Violist with the Toledo Symphony Orchestra

Concerts and events

Mar 19 Tue
7:30 pm
Junior Recital: D'aci Knight, viola
Strings, Conservatory Student Recitals
Mar 22 Fri
3:30 pm
First Master of Music Recital: Christopher Kim, cello
Strings, Conservatory Student Recitals
Mar 22 Fri
7:30 pm
Second Master of Music Recital: John Fawcett, violin
Strings, Conservatory Student Recitals
Mar 23 Sat
6:30 pm
First Master of Music Recital: Sebastian Orellana, violin
Strings, Conservatory Student Recitals
Mar 25 Mon
7:00 pm
Senior Recital: Kai Bryngelson, violin
Strings, Conservatory Student Recitals