Cello and Guitar

Lou Davelman

I have taught Cello and Guitar at Raritan Music Center for 22 years.   Music has always been my passion, and teaching is a way to pass on the love and knowledge I have acquired over many years of study and playing.  In addition to musical pursuits I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and an Associates Degree in Computer Science.
 
Cello
As a Cellist, I began my studies in 1989 with the late John Kalajian of Princeton, a wonderful musician who studied Cello with Otto Deri and Janos Starker. I also had private lessons with John Enz, who played for many years with the Princeton Symphony and also led the Youth Orchestra of Central Jersey.  John Kalajian was one of my favorite teachers, not only showing me how to play but also doing repair work on my cello.  My performing cello was built in 1994 by Joseph Conrad of Warren, NJ.  Joe had apprenticed for many years with the well known Carleen Hutchins, creator of the string octet.  I also played upright and electric bass in the Roxbury High School stage band.

In addition to my private teachers I studied Ear Training, Music Theory and Coached Chamber Music at Westminster Conservatory.
I was also a member of the Central Jersey Symphony Orchestra (now the Somerset Symphony) for 13 years,  playing a wide range of classical repertoire.  I served as President of the Board of Directors of the CJSO for 5 years and guided the orchestra to 501 c3 (non-profit) status.
 
Guitar
I have performed for many years as a solo artist and with duos, quartets, and bands.  Everything from pop to folk to rock to jazz.  I began my study of the guitar at Veit’s Music House in Livingston, NJ in 1963.  I learned to read treble clef, the cycle of 5ths and used the Mel Bay series of Guitar Method books.  I play mostly Americana music now (and sing), at restaurants and wineries.  I enjoy playing many styles of music, both acoustic and electric.  I have been performing sinceI was 12 years old, and enjoy both solo work and the collaboration that comes from duos, trios and bands.

I have studied guitar with a number of talented teachers, including Rick Peckham, and hold Professional Certification in Jazz Guitar from Berklee College of Music.