Music Teacher

Valentina Črnjak brings a lifelong love of music and a passion for nurturing children's creativity to her teaching. Originally from Zagreb, Croatia, she began her musical journey at the age of six at the renowned Functional Music School Elly Bašić, where she studied music theory, harmony, solfeggio, music history, and performance. Through extensive travel and performances across Europe, she developed a deep appreciation for both music and cultural diversity.

In 2011, Valentina moved to the United States to pursue her cello studies. She earned her Bachelor's degree from the University of North Texas and her Master's degree from Yale University. Since 2019, she has called Austin home, where she lives with her husband, three children, their beloved Great Pyrenees, Captain Biscuit, and a thriving collection of plants.

Valentina's teaching philosophy is inspired by the vision of Elly Bašić, who believed that "not any, but every child has the right to music education." Through music, Valentina seeks to cultivate imagination, emotional expression, joy, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts. She is delighted to share her love of music with children and looks forward to guiding them on their musical journey.