As a teacher Judy is passionate about fostering an engaging, and individualized learning environment, helping students of all ages build strong musical foundations, confidence, and a lifelong love of music.
Judy Cruces is an Oakland based violinist and educator with several years of experience teaching violin, voice, and foundational piano in both private studio and school settings. She holds a Master’s Degree in Music Education from University of Redlands and a Bachelor’s Degree in Violin Performance from California State University East Bay.
An avid orchestral musician Judy has performed with the Cal State East Bay Orchestra, Community Women’s Orchestra and Castro Valley Orchestra.
Her musical repertoire expands both classical and contemporary worlds; she has studied classical, folk/Americana, country, reggae, rock, metal, jazz, and R&B, among others.
Her performance career includes appearances at local venues and festivals throughout California and the West Coast.
In addition to live performance, Judy has been featured on recorded albums and has worked in the studio with many local artists, blending technical precision with creative sensitivity.
She has also directed her own youth choirs and string ensembles, intentionally creating meaningful performance and collaboration opportunities that help students grow as confident, well-rounded musicians.