Olga Patramanska-Bell

BIOGRAPHY

Olga Patramanska-Bell was born and raised in Ukraine, where she received her musical education. After finishing her Bachelor's degree at the R.M. Glier Kyiv State Higher Music College and studying a few years at the National Musical Academy of Ukraine, she came to Boston to continue her education at the Longy School of Music in Cambridge, Massachusetts. She received her Masters of Music degree under the guidance of Mr. Mark Lakirovich. Olga is an active performer and participant in numerous concerts, projects and festivals. She is a winner of the Concerto competition and Honors competition at the

Longy School of Music, and has performed as a soloist with the Longy Chamber Orchestra, National Pops Symphony Orchestra and Philharmonia Orchestra in Ukraine. Olga is a winner of several competitions in Ukraine and has travelled through Europe performing solo recitals and playing in violin ensemble. Olga has been actively teaching in the Greater Boston Area and currently is a member of Zefira Piano Trio. Past engagements include playing with Juventas New Music Ensemble. Boston Philharmonic Orchestra,

Symphony New Hampshire, Atlantic Symphony Orchestra, Walden Chamber Music Players, ECCE ensemble, Sound Icon, Grand Harmonie, Harvard Baroque Chamber Orchestra, Equilibrium Ensemble, Boston New Music Initiative, Boston Opera Collaborative, Harvard's Lowell House Opera, and Commonwealth Lyric Theater. Olga is currently holding a position of String Department Chair at the Concord Community Music School(NH), and on a faculty of Powers Music School (Belmont, MA) and Winchester Community Music School(Winchester, MA).

TEACHING PHILOSOPHY

Over the past 15+ years of teaching violin and viola, I’ve come to believe that the best learning happens when students feel both supported and challenged. My teaching style is kind but firm—I care deeply about my students and their progress, and I set clear, high expectations to help them grow into confident, thoughtful musicians.

I work with students of all ages—from curious five-year-olds just picking up an instrument, to adults returning to music later in life. Some of my students have gone on to win local competitions or join some of the best youth orchestras in the area, while others simply play for the joy it brings to their lives. Whatever the goal, I tailor lessons to fit the individual, focusing on strong fundamentals, healthy technique, and expressive playing.

I’m a big believer in structured, mindful practice and honest feedback—delivered with patience and care. I try to make lessons feel like a balance of hard work and enjoyment. There’s room for laughter, curiosity, and creativity, but also for focus and commitment. Learning an instrument takes time and effort, but it’s one of the most rewarding journeys a person can take.

I also encourage students to connect with others through music—whether that’s performing in recitals, joining an ensemble, or just sharing a piece they love with family or friends. Music is about connection, and I love watching students grow not just in skill, but in confidence and self-expression.

At the end of the day, I want my students to leave each lesson feeling proud of what they’ve accomplished and excited to keep going. Teaching is one of the most fulfilling parts of my life, and I’m grateful for every student I get to work with.

Education:

R.M. Glier Kyiv State Higher Music College: Kyiv, Ukraine

Bachelors of Music

Longy School of Music: Cambridge, Massachusetts

Masters of Music