Didem is available for private lessons via Skype or her private studio in Bellingham, WA.
She is also available as composer, arranger, and performer.
She is also available as composer, arranger, and performer.
At 18 years old Didem Somel came to the U.S. from her homeland of Türkiye (Turkey) and won the Gee Starling International Viola Competition. She obtained her doctorate from the University of Memphis and has been teaching academic music courses (music theory, music history, orchestral excerpts, performance, etc.) and providing violin/viola lessons in music schools, institutions and her private studio for over two decades. She is active as a soloist, chamber musician, and has performed with numerous North American symphony orchestras. As a collaborative artist, Dr. Somel has been also recording for various musical projects, including live radio and television broadcasts. She extensively performs with jam-based psychedelic, experimental, trance, rock, jazz, latin jazz ensembles and promotes/showcases her own compositions. To experience Didem's latest project visit: Celestial Navigation.
"The impact she has made on me as a student, musician, and person are impossible to describe. She may seem "out there," but when it's all said and done; she really knows how to fix whatever the issue may be. Dr. Somel has unconventional methods, yet they work far better than the normal ways. After spending eight years with her, she has taught me how to be a great violinist and to really care about what I am doing. She will ask for diligence and commitment from her students; however, her requirements are not just beneficial for aspiring musicians. The work ethic she requires from her students will help someone in any profession."
- Austin, violin student
- Austin, violin student