Melissa Pruss, (MM, Violin Performance, expected ’21), Jordan Willis (MM, Violin Performance, expected ’21), Zach Jeppesen (BA, Entrepreneurial Studies, expected ’23), present during the Guest String Series. The Guest String Series takes place during the Spring 2021 semester and includes speakers and artists from across the country who Zoom in for master classes and presentations for String Area students and faculty.

Melissa Pruss shared how to begin and manage a successful string studio. Ms. Pruss has over 50 private students and has expert teaching, entrepreneurial, and management skills. Her presentation shed light on the many checks and balances needed when running a studio. In addition to her private studio, Ms. Pruss teaches at the  College of St. Mary, St. Wenceslaus School, and is a member of the Omaha Symphony. 

Jordan Willis presented on music careers outside of performance and education. Jordan brings a wealth of knowledge to this topic with his hands-on experience in marketing and human resources. He explored the many facets and possibilities of working in music, from arts management to arts engagement to acoustician! Jordan currently works in the Human Resources Department at Omaha Performing Arts.

Zach Jeppesen presented on easy fixes for string instrument repair. Zach has studied luthier work with Sarah Gray and interned at Schmitt Music. Zach walked string players through common pitfalls that can negatively effect instruments and gave tips and tricks for how to address these issues. Zach is currently a Repair Technician specializing in string instruments at Schmitt Music.