About

Aveline Schienke is a violinist with 14 years of experience in solo, orchestral, and chamber music, currently pursuing her undergraduate degree in Music Performance at Grand Valley State University (GVSU). Originally from East Michigan, she began studying violin at a young age and is working toward a career in classical performance and teaching.

Now entering her final year of undergraduate studies, Aveline has studied under Dr. Letitia Jap and, currently, Professor Yu Xin. She is a member of the GVSU Symphony Orchestra and Chamber Orchestra, serving as Assistant Concertmaster of the Symphony Orchestra for the past three years. She is also part of the GVSU Violin Studio, where she continues to refine her technique and musical skills.

During her undergraduate studies, Aveline participated in the Decoda Chamber Music Festival and the Vivace International Music Festival, gaining extensive chamber and solo experience while working with esteemed professional musicians from around the country. She has been active in community outreach through the GVSU Community Engagement Project, performing solo and in small groups for schools, senior centers, and other organizations. She is also the founder and host of Tutti Talks, a podcast where musicians share their stories, experiences, and insights into the world of classical music, reflecting her passion for education and community connection.

In addition to her performance work, Aveline serves as an Assistant Teaching Artist with the West Michigan Symphony Tune Up Program through the Muskegon Public Schools after-school CCLC Impact program. In this role, she works with beginner string students in levels 1, 2, and 3, providing group instruction, mentoring, and ensemble coaching. Her responsibilities include leading string instruction time, assisting with student recitals and concerts, and collaborating with colleagues in program meetings—all with the goal of fostering early musical growth and engagement.

During high school, Aveline performed with her school’s Concert, Symphony, Chamber, and Pit Orchestras, as well as the Oakland Youth Orchestras (OYO) under the guidance of Zeljko Milicevic. She also began teaching private violin lessons, an experience she plans to continue throughout her career.

In her third year of college, Aveline co-founded The Blue Bridge Trio, a piano trio based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The trio performed across the state at summer camps, high schools, and retirement communities, collaborating with cellist Jake Doctor and pianist Sam Bergman, further developing her chamber music and performance experience.

After graduation, Aveline plans to audition for professional orchestras, continue performing in chamber ensembles, pursue master’s programs in violin performance, and open a private violin studio to teach and inspire the next generation of musicians. With a strong commitment to performance, education, and community outreach, she looks forward to continuing her journey as both a performer and educator, sharing her love of music with others.