Long Okada

Biography:

Long Okada, originally from Osaka, Japan, is a Boston-based violist and baroque violinist whose work spans solo, chamber, and orchestral performance on both modern and period instruments.

A passionate advocate for British repertoire, Long is particularly devoted to the viola literature of the 20th-century British renaissance, with a focus on the impact of the folksong revival on the nation’s compositional landscape. He performs with Duo Gwynne, a recipient of the Artist Fellowship from Music for Food. The Duo made its debut at the historic St. Botolph without Aldgate, and has since appeared in concert series across the United Kingdom and United States, including a featured performance commemorating the coronation of King Charles III at the Church of Holy Cross, St Pancras. He has also appeared in Domaine Forget, International Computer Music Conference, Manchester Music Festival, Summer in Aldgate, Summer Institute for Contemporary Performance Practice, and Zephyr International Chamber Music Festival. He also maintains an active orchestral presence, with frequent engagements as guest violist with the Cape Symphony, Bangor Symphony Orchestra and various symphonic and chamber orchestras throughout Europe and North America.

An enthusiastic and experienced instructor, Long maintained a vibrant teaching studio in London, England prior to returning to the United States. He now continues to cultivate a thriving studio in Massachusetts, working with a diverse group of dedicated and curious students.

Long earned degrees from New York University and the Royal Academy of Music in London. He also pursued advanced studies at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and Longy School of Music of Bard College. He also earned the Licentiate of the Royal Academy of Music (LRAM), a teaching diploma he completed with a focus on violin and viola instruction in both one-on-one and group settings.

When not involved with music, Long enjoys swimming, visiting antique shops, and being an active member and volunteer at his local Episcopal church.

Teaching Philosophy:

My teaching philosophy centers on setting high technical standards, encouraging critical thinking, fostering creativity, and cultivating a patient, empathetic, and trusting learning environment. This approach is shaped by the influence of my own teachers and informed by established pedagogical methods, including those of Simon Fischer, Shinichi Suzuki, and Karen Tuttle.

I primarily focus on classical viola and violin repertoire, combining rigorous technical exercises with ear training, sight-reading, and body percussion to support students in developing strong, well-rounded musicianship and a deep understanding of classical music. Believing deeply in the power of making music together, I encourage my students to participate in their school and youth orchestra programs. To foster this collaborative spirit, I often play duets with my students

during lessons, creating a supportive and engaging environment that strengthens their ensemble skills.

A key part of my teaching is working collaboratively with students to help them learn how to think, not just telling them what to do. I ask open-ended questions and encourage students, even from the beginning of their musical journey, to reflect, elaborate, and share their own insights. Through this process, students build deeper understanding and develop the ability to think critically and creatively.

Above all, I strive to inspire a lifelong love of music, one that nurtures curiosity and joy. My goal is to work alongside my students not only to develop technical excellence and artistic confidence but also to help them discover their unique artistic voice. Ultimately, I hope to guide each student toward reaching their fullest potential, both as musicians and as thoughtful, engaged individuals.

Education:

Longy School of Music of Bard College: Massachusetts

Graduate Performance Diploma

Royal Academy of Music: London

Master of Music and LRAM

Royal Conservatoire of Scotland: Glasgow

Postgraduate Diploma

New York University: New York

Bachelor of Music