About Us

Welcome to Lakewood Suzuki Strings

Nurturing confidence, discipline, and a lifelong love for music through the Suzuki Method.

Our faculty members are professional musicians with extensive training in the Suzuki Method. Their dedication ensures every student receives personalized instruction and support.

A woman in a white shirt is holding a violin and smiling.

Clara Engen

Violin Instructor

Specializes in nurturing young talent through personalized teaching methods.

A woman in a white tank top is holding a violin and smiling.

Micaela Murphy

Viola and Violin Instructor

Passionate about fostering a love for music in her students.

A woman is holding a violin in front of a window.

Iuliia Leuck

Violin Instructor

Brings a wealth of experience in violin performance and education.

A woman is holding a violin in front of a window.

Karen Ferry

Violin Instructor

Karen’s patient and nurturing approach helps students excel with confidence.

A woman is holding a cello in the woods.

Katie Morrow

Cello Instructor

Inspires and develops students' musical abilities.

Meet The Directors

Hello! We are Clara Engen and Micaela Murphy, co-founders and directors of Lakewood Suzuki Strings. We started this program in 2022 to bring the joy of the Suzuki Method to our west Cleveland and Lakewood community. We both grew up learning our primary instruments through Suzuki, and we are passionate about the effectiveness of this Method to instill confidence and a love of music in children. Together we bring over 20 years of teaching experience to this program, and share a common mission to make music education joyful and inspirational to all our students.

A group of children are playing violins in a room with a teacher.

Our Approach to Music Education

At Lakewood Suzuki Strings, we believe every child has unlimited potential. Our teaching philosophy, based on the Suzuki Method, emphasizes learning music in a nurturing environment similar to how children acquire language. Through listening, repetition, and encouragement, we cultivate not only musical skills but also confidence and discipline.

A Comprehensive Musical Journey

Our curriculum combines weekly private lessons, collaborative group classes, and performance opportunities. We foster both individual growth and community connection, ensuring students thrive musically and personally.


  • Private Lessons: Tailored one-on-one instruction.
  • Group Classes: Collaborative learning experiences.
  • Performances: Regular opportunities to build confidence on stage.
A group of people are playing violins in a room.
Three little girls are sitting on a bench holding violins.

What Makes the Suzuki Method Unique?

The Suzuki Method nurtures musical talent in a positive, encouraging environment. With a focus on early beginnings, parental involvement, and group learning, this approach builds confidence and discipline alongside technical skill.

Send Us a Message

Have any questions or want to schedule an appointment? Feel free to send us a message and our team will be more than happy to assist you.

Join Our Musical Community

Lakewood Suzuki Strings is dedicated to guiding your child towards musical excellence in a supportive and engaging environment.

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