About Us

Mission Statement

To inspire and nurture a lifelong passion for music through the artistry of violin playing. Our mission is to provide exceptional and accessible violin education, fostering creativity, discipline, and a deep appreciation for the beauty of music.

Vision

Envisioning a vibrant community where the language of the violin speaks to the hearts of all, we strive to empower individuals on their musical journey. Our vision is a world where each aspiring musician discovers their unique voice, attains artistic excellence, and contributes to the cultural tapestry of society.

Values

Musical Passion: We believe in instilling a deep passion for music, fostering a love for the violin that goes beyond technical proficiency, and enriches the lives of our students.

Educational Excellence: Committed to upholding the highest standards of violin education, we provide expert instruction and create an environment that encourages continuous learning and artistic growth.

Creative Expression: We value and nurture creativity, encouraging our students to explore their artistic expression, fostering individuality and celebrating the wide spectrum of musical voices.

Discipline and Dedication: Recognizing the discipline required for musical mastery, we instill in our students a strong work ethic, perseverance, and dedication to their craft.

Cindy Miles – Founder/Instructor

Cindy has a wealth of experience, with over 30 years of teaching violin and piano to students of all ages. She is a member of Suzuki Association of the Americas. Alongside teaching, she has created and published a successful fiddling instructional series, selling thousands of books through Miles Music. Cindy’s passion for fiddling is evident in her participation in contests across the United States and Canada, where she has won numerous awards.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Spanish from the University of Idaho, as well as an Idaho Teacher’s Certificate with endorsements in grades 6-12 mathematics and Spanish. During her time at UI, she also pursued studies in piano performance and music theory. Cindy is a distinguished member of the Phi Beta Kappa and Phi Kappa Phi honor societies.

Cindy and her husband live in north central Idaho where they raised their five musically talented children. The family frequently performs together at events throughout the region. Apart from her musical pursuits, Cindy enjoys reading and hiking.

What Our Students Have to Say

“Forte Violin Academy offers a holistic approach to learning the violin and fiddle, incorporating essential skills such as reading music and understanding music theory into their curriculum. The instructors are not only skilled musicians but also effective educators who are passionate about sharing their knowledge with their students. Thanks to their guidance, my son has developed a deeper appreciation for music and gained the confidence to tackle more challenging pieces.”

Martin T.-Parent

“Studying violin and fiddle with Forte Violin Academy has been an incredibly rewarding experience. In addition to honing my playing technique, the instructors have provided me with a strong foundation in music theory and sight-reading. This comprehensive approach has empowered me to become a more well-rounded musician. Whether I’m playing classical pieces or traditional fiddle tunes, I feel confident in my ability to interpret and perform the music.”

John C. -Student

“Forte Violin Academy offers a comprehensive approach to learning the violin, integrating both technical skills and musical theory. The instructors are patient and knowledgeable, guiding students through the intricacies of reading music and understanding music theory concepts. Thanks to their expertise, my daughter has not only improved her playing but also gained a deeper understanding of the music she’s performing. I highly recommend Forte Violin Academy to anyone.”

Michelle G.-Parent

“Joining Forte Violin Academy has been a transformative journey for me. As someone who had always dreamed of playing the violin but never knew where to start, FVA provided the perfect environment for me to learn and grow. The instructors are not only incredibly talented musicians but also patient and encouraging educators. They guided me through every step of the learning process, from holding the bow correctly to mastering complex pieces.”