Providing acclaimed Suzuki education in Southwest Austin since 2006
Growing strong technique and a beautiful sound

Lessons

Offering instruction for all levels, ages 3 through adult. Studio members enjoy activities that build skill, artistry, and community, including:

  • Weekly private lessons (30, 45, or 60 minutes)
  • Holiday performance at the Capitol Rotunda and the Wimberly Trail of Lights
  • Multilevel Studio Class
  • Fall and spring recitals

Contact me for details, and to schedule a complimentary meet and greet.

About Me

I’m a lifelong player. I grew up in a rich musical environment in Ohio, and came to Austin in 2003 via upstate New York. Committed to professional growth, I’m always learning. I practice daily and take frequent advantage of classes and coaching.

I’m an almost-empty-nester with four grown children (plus a stellar daughter-in-law). In my spare time I enjoy walking, reading, swimming, travel, movies, and concerts.

I look forward to getting to know you.

  • Cornell University, B.A. Anthropology 1980
  • Columbia University Teachers College, M.A. TESOL 1989
  • While at Cornell, studied viola at Ithaca College with Darrell Barnes and Jenny Hanson.
  • Every Child Can
  • Suzuki Books 1 - 8
  • Teaching Group Class
  • Practicum
  • Suzuki Enrichment Workshop, Teaching the Works of Fritz Kreisler with Brian Lewis
  • Mark O’Connor Method Training: Books 1-4 with Pamela Wiley
  • Texas Music Educators Association
  • American String Teachers Association
  • Suzuki Association of the Americas
  • Greater Austin Suzuki Association
  • Starlight Symphony Orchestra, Wimberly

Studio Staff

Photo of chihuahua with label 'Fox' Photo of orange and white cat with label 'Dolly Purrton' Photo of orange and white cat with label 'Fritz'

Testimonials

  • "My daughter has been taking violin lessons with Ms. Martens for a little over 2 years and I have been so impressed with how patient she is with my daughter! She can always find something good to say after she plays a piece of music. She also has great ideas on how to make practicing the violin fun! Ms. Martens was even the person to notice my daughter needed glasses. It's been a pleasure working with her and I recommend her for anyone ready to learn an instrument!"

    - Christina Ly

  • "I highly recommend Jennifer Martens as a violin and Viola teacher. I have two boys who take her classes. My oldest child is on the spectrum and has recently expressed interest in violin. He has made tremendous progress under her tutelage. She is able to adapt the Suzuki book and method to meet his diverse learning style."

    - Inna B.

  • "We've had an excellent experience with Ms. Jeni as a violin and viola instructor for my beginner girls (11 and 9). She is very patient and gauges her students very well. They are both loving their new instruments and are progressing well. We love that she knows when to challenge our girls to help make it more fun."

    - Jackie V.

  • "My younger child is her viola student. We works with him closely to develop the proper posture and techniques for viola. She also guides him to work hard and gets through a challenging piece when its hard for him to put it all together."

    - Inna B.

  • "Ms. Jeni (Martens) has done wonders for my six year old son. She is sweet, patient, engaging, attentive, and very skilled at teaching. My son has made great progress learning the Suzuki method and we plan to continue with her as long as possible. I would highly recommend her to anyone that wants a warm-hearted, kind, and passionate violin instructor."

    - Melissa

  • “Jeni is a warm and extremely patient teacher. I have been impressed by Jeni’s openness to adapting her teaching methods to suit very young children and those with additional learning needs.”

    - J.

  • "Jeni always finds fun ways to teach and she is very patient."

    - Ayse Ozgun