Teaching Testimonials

  • "Brenton’s compassion for music shines brightly through his immaculate playing and articulate teaching. While studying at Lynn, I was drawn to his welcoming aura and sought advice after starting the Glinka Viola Sonata. Brenton not only helped me navigate the technical difficulties of the piece, but helped me to find my voice on my instrument. After our first lesson, my private teacher could tell something had sparked. Brenton’s attention to detail, commitment to storytelling, and ability to convey clear ideas has provided me with the tools needed for day to day practice. Over the course of six years, Brenton has helped prepare me for recitals, juries, seating auditions, and graduate school auditions. I will forever be grateful for the life long lessons Brenton has taught me and will continue to share his accolades as a kind person, musician, and teacher."

    Kayla Williams

    Lynn University, B.M.

    The Juilliard School, M.M.

  • "I have played for Brenton many times throughout the last two years of my undergraduate degree, and I am grateful for the patience and detail he exhibits in teaching and mentorship. Brenton has guided me to develop a broader awareness of my playing and has helped me grow in my effectiveness and potential. He is a spirited teacher and cultivates a positive working environment that engages the student’s dedication and ideas. Brenton shares his time and wisdom selflessly and his investment in my growth has helped me immensely in my preparation for graduate auditions. His lessons benefit me fundamentally and his depth of knowledge has made a lasting impact on my playing and how I think. "

    — Nicolas Valencia

    University of North Texas, B.M. student

  • “Brenton has helped me with college audition and competition preparation. Each time, he gave me such clear and constructive comments on what needed to improve as well as how to improve. He was able to give practice exercises for troubled double stop sections, as well as methods to improve line and phrasing. Brenton is engaging and allows for a really creative working environment. I always felt supported and unafraid to make mistakes as I reworked sections with him. The lessons have always been fruitful, and have given me insight that I carried beyond the time spent with him. He is really dynamic and I can’t say enough good things!"

    —Patrick Hayes

    University of North Texas, B.M. student

  • “I first met and worked with Brenton at ViolaFest Miami in my early years of high school. I believe we worked on Bloch’s Suite Hebraique, but what stuck most with me were his suggestions and embodiment of being more relaxed when I play. I learned and saw from him that playing this way allows for easier and maximum musical execution."

    — Cameren Williams

    The Juilliard School, B.M. student

  • "I got the chance to work with Mr. Caldwell at Texas Strings Camp the summer before my undergraduate auditions. In just a few lessons, he helped me realize that I was greatly underestimating the importance of right hand technique and bow control in every aspect of musicianship. His advice and guidance helped me place in TSC’s solo competition. The same pieces were used for my successful audition at The Hartt School later that year. I have no doubt that Mr. Caldwell’s instruction has played a great role in my progress as a violist and musician even well beyond the short time we worked together. "

    Tyson Salinas

    B.M. and B.M.E., The Hartt School of Music

    Adams Junior High School, Katy, TX, Assistant Orchestra Director

  • "I am in the third year of studying applied viola lessons with Brenton Caldwell at Dallas College- Richland Campus. Mr. Caldwell is always punctual and well-prepared for the lessons. He has many years of experience playing viola repertoire, which is advantageous to his students. He is knowledgeable about bowing and style periods. He has unique experience in playing string chamber and orchestral literature which he uses to assist his students in their performances. He works hard to help all his students experience success in their chosen educational goals. I have experienced significant value in all lessons with Mr. Caldwell."

    Dale Daniels

    Dallas College, Student