Faculty Bios
Laura Hammes Black is a dedicated violin instructor based in Wichita, Kansas where she teaches privately and serves on the faculty of Bethany College (Lindsborg, KS) and Friends University
(Wichita, KS). As an accomplished musician, she performs with the Wichita Symphony, the Music Theatre of Wichita Orchestra, and the Wichita Grand Opera Orchestra, and holds the position of concertmaster for the Bethany College Community Orchestra. In addition to her teaching and performing, Laura is the Artistic Director and Strings Coordinator of Camp Allegro Wichita and has contributed her expertise at the Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp in Michigan. With a Master of Music in Violin Performance from Indiana University and a Bachelor of Music from the University of Michigan, she was honored with the Daniel J. Sevart Award for Community Service by the Wichita Symphony in 2011.
Hal Grossman is an esteemed Associate Professor of Violin at the University of Oregon and a faculty member at the Aria Summer Academy. With a rich teaching background that includes the University of Oklahoma and the Interlochen Arts Academy, he has also performed as a concerto soloist with orchestras across America, Europe, and Canada. A recipient of prestigious awards, including first prizes at the International Cleveland Quartet Competition and the National Fischoff Chamber Music Competition, Mr. Grossman is renowned for his innovative violin teaching and performance. His workshop, “No Pain, All Gain,” part of The Grossman Method, focuses on stretching exercises designed to alleviate the pain and tension that musicians often face from extensive practice.
Dr. Shaohong "Betty" Yuan is an esteemed Assistant Professor of Viola at Oklahoma City University. In addition to her teaching role, she serves as the Vice-President of the American String Teachers of Oklahoma and is the Artistic Director of the Vergili Chamber Orchestra. With a rich performance background, Dr. Yuan has collaborated with various ensembles, including the Oklahoma Sinfonia String Orchestra and the Oklahoma City Philharmonic Orchestra. Her expertise extends beyond performance, as she has conducted numerous open lecture recitals and masterclasses both nationally and internationally.
Alicia Mora began her violin journey at the age of 12, nurturing a deep passion for both performance and teaching. She earned her master's degree in Music Performance, in Violin Pedagogy, from the University of Oregon’s School of Music and Dance. Alicia has graced the stage with various symphonies across the Midwest and West Coast, including the Eugene Symphony and Rogue Valley Symphony. Her dedication to music has led her to perform as a solo with the Kansas Wesleyan Orchestra and learn from esteemed musicians, enriching her skills and inspiring the next generation of young violinists.