Cello, Violin, Viola, Piano, Electric Bass
Kylie Hechinger
My name is Kylie, and I am a cellist and visual artist from West Chester, Pennsylvania. I have been playing the cello for fourteen years, and teaching for the last five. As a professional cellist, I perform, record, and write for film, tv, and theater, as well as performing with various orchestral, rock, and contemporary groups. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Cello Performance and Film Scoring from Berklee College of Music, with a minor in English Poetry.
In addition to building a strong technical foundation, my students learn how to improvise over chord structures, read lead sheets, learn tunes by ear, and play basslines. This gives students the tools to play any style of music they want, in any setting.
When did you begin playing Cello, and why?
When I was in third grade, my elementary school’s orchestra teacher came to my class to give a demonstration on the string instruments. It wasn’t even a question in my mind that I would sign up to play! I chose the cello because I liked the lower register and thought it was awesome that cellists get to sit down. Funnily enough, I now play while standing quite often.
What other instruments do you play, and what is your experience with them?
I picked up the electric bass two years ago so that I could have a doubling instrument for my musical theater gigs. Over the years, I have also doubled on keys and percussion, as well as orchestrating parts. It was easier to learn in a familiar setting, especially one where I always had sheet music to fall back on.
However, I recently stepped out of my comfort zone and began playing bass and singing backup in bands with my friends. Learning a new instrument has taught me so many things that I now apply to the cello, and has transformed the way I practice. I cannot recommend it enough!
What are your personal goals as a musician?
To me, music is about connection and community. Whether onstage as a performer or behind the scenes as a writer and artist, I love working with other people to bring a vision to life.
Do you have a memory of a time when a musical concept or technique really clicked? Something you’ll remember forever?
I will never forget the day that it became second nature for me to count while playing. When I was younger, it felt like I had to split my mind in half to read difficult rhythms or keep my place in a form. One day, it just clicked.
What is your favorite piece of advice from one of your past (or current) teachers?
One of my teachers once told me that I needed to go out and see more shows instead of playing in them. It was such a simple and obvious remark, but really stuck with me.
What was your most challenging moment learning an instrument?
When I first began learning thumb position, I remember feeling really frustrated at how difficult it was. It’s something that won’t be comfortable until you develop a callus on your thumb, so you just have to be patient. It was definitely a challenge to keep at it for so long before seeing results.
What is your biggest musical achievement?
As a young musician, I used to be absolutely petrified of auditions. It felt like my worth as an artist was all on the line if I messed up. Luckily, I came to realize that one moment doesn’t define who I am or what my capabilities are. And more importantly, that expression is far more important than technical perfection. Getting over my fear of judgment has been my biggest musical achievement, and has improved my musicianship significantly.
Favorite thing about teaching?
I absolutely love seeing my students become comfortable and confident with something that once challenged them.
What is a piece of advice you would like to share with anyone learning music?
Play as much as you can with other people! Learning to play an instrument can feel daunting when you are practicing alone. Push yourself to go play with other musicians, and you will learn so many new and exciting things.