I started playing violin at the age of six years old. I
studied classical violin with Galina Heifetz at the Manhattan School of
Music Pre-College for seven years. After graduating, I received a
music education degree from Oberlin Conservatory, where I studied
classical violin with Marilyn McDonald.
Following college, I taught orchestra in the Manchester, New Hampshire public schools, grades 3-12. At
the same time, I began work on recording the CD "Journey," with classical
guitarist Scott McAllister, exploring improvisation, Irish styles, and
writing/arranging violin parts for several of Scott's pieces. We have
appeared on several compilation CDs such as the Classical Guitar Society of
Connecticut since our meeting in 1996, and we continue to perform in
such festivals as "The Folk Next Door," CD release concerts for
The Classical Guitar Society of Connecticut, as well as various concerts,
events and weddings in the New England area.
In 1998 I moved to Cambridge, MA joined the faculty of the Boston Center of Adult Education
and the Cambridge Center of Adult Education, where I taught violin to
adults. These classes made me realize that there was a need in the Boston area for string teachers who focused on
adult learners. In 1998 I opened my own private studio, of adult violin and viola
students studying both classical and other styles of music (including improvisation). In 2001 I joined the faculty at the
Bunker Hill Community College. I currently live in Somerville, MA - teaching privately and working as the Financial Manager
at the New School of Music.
As far as performing, I began playing out as soon as I moved to the Boston area, with bands like Star Hustler (Jason Hatfield),
Band of Changes, Lorraine Della Rocca Band, Piper Down and The Feast. I joined
The Shelley
Winters Project in April, 1999 (violin and back-up vocals) and have been focusing my energy on this band.
I also play in The Red Line String Quartet, which is a gigging group specializing in weddings and
pop recording projects. I also involve myself in several recording and performing
projects in the Boston Area. I have recorded with such musicians as Peter C. Johnson, Holt Hopkins, Paula Kelley, Matt Mascolo,
Don Lennon and Dave Aaronoff & the Details. Click here to learn about recordings I've
been on.
Want to learn more about me? Go to my Fun Facts page!
Want to see photos of people that matter to me? Go to my photos page!
Want to see music-related photos of me and Shelley? Go to my photos page!
For bookings and other information,
contact me:
E-mail: mercooper@hotmail.com
Phone: 617.764.2167