Greg Fiocca

Greg Fiocca is an accomplished cellist and dedicated teacher with more than 30 years of experience helping students of all ages discover the joy of music. A graduate of the prestigious Juilliard School, where he earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Cello, Greg studied with renowned teachers Leonard Rose and Channing Robbins. Before Juilliard, he attended the Preparatory Division of the Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University, studying cello with Stephen Kates and composition with David Hogan.

Throughout his career, Greg has performed with many of the nation’s leading orchestras and ensembles. He has served as Principal Cellist of the Akron Symphony, ProMusica Chamber Orchestra, and Akron Baroque, while also performing with the Columbus, Youngstown, Canton, and New Jersey Symphonies. Audiences may also recognize him from performances with Mannheim Steamroller’s Christmas Tour, productions at Playhouse Square, and concerts alongside artists including Johnny Mathis, Harry Connick Jr., Roberta Flack, Engelbert Humperdinck, Mel Tormé, Lorrie Morgan, and the Cleveland Jazz Orchestra.

Greg’s passion for teaching began early. After first picking up the cello in fourth grade, he started coaching younger students in high school and continued teaching during his years at Juilliard. Today, he finds great satisfaction in helping students build confidence, develop strong technique, and discover the expressive power of music.

Greg believes that learning an instrument is a partnership between the teacher, student, and family. His lessons are engaging, encouraging, and carefully tailored to each student’s unique learning style. Whether working with a beginner or an advanced musician, he focuses on clear communication, positive reinforcement, and creative problem-solving to help students overcome challenges and continue making meaningful progress.

Rather than expecting every student to learn the same way, Greg adjusts his teaching to meet each individual’s needs. He frequently uses duets, carefully selected repertoire, and targeted technical exercises to keep lessons motivating while building solid musical foundations. His calm, patient approach helps students develop confidence, especially those who may feel shy or anxious about performing.

For Greg, music education extends far beyond learning notes on a page. He believes that studying an instrument teaches perseverance, discipline, resilience, and the satisfaction that comes from achieving meaningful goals—skills that benefit students throughout their lives.

Outside the teaching studio, Greg is also a published author, Artist-in-Residence for Singers Company in Akron, Ohio, and Senior Music Consultant for Zing Productions in Hollywood, California.