Hi, I’m Gabe Tafoya

I am a professional violinist and music teacher with over 12 years of experience in both performance and teaching music. I currently teach orchestra at Santa Fe High School, where I have greatly expanded the program over the last 9 years to include all levels of orchestra from absolute beginners to pre-college level. I also co-teach the orchestra program at St. Michael’s High School. I have extensive experience in teaching violin and viola privately and have successfully helped private students prepare for All-State auditions, regional honor orchestra auditions, and college music auditions. I am a professional mariachi violinist who plays with Santa Fe, New Mexico based mariachi group Mariachi Azteca de Santa Fe. I specialize in working with teenagers, but I will teach students of all ages 10 and up.

Credentials/Qualifications:

  • Level 3 New Mexico Teaching License

  • 9 years of experience teaching in Santa Fe Public Schools and Santa Fe Youth Symphony

  • 12 years of professional performance experience

  • 12 years of experience teaching private lessons

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Contemporary Music from Santa Fe University of Art & Design

  • Master’s Degree in Music Education from University of New Mexico

  • Orchestra instructional coach for Santa Fe Public Schools

  • Vice President of Orchestra for North Central New Mexico Music Educators Association

My Approach

I firmly believe that music education is a necessity and that all students should have equitable access to quality music education as a form of self-enrichment, relaxation, mental stimulation, and possible career opportunity.

teaching method

I do not teach the Suzuki Method. I teach violin and viola through a traditional method with emphases on both music literacy and performance technique. I primarily teach beginners through Essential Elements for Strings and use supplemental materials such as etudes, solos, and my own exercises.

Teaching philosophy

Music is not just a luxury as many believe. Music is proven to make children smarter, improve cognitive skills, improve critical thinking skills, enhance memory, and teach important life skills such as commitment, dedication, and patience.