Mr. Wasson is a string educator, orchestra director, and professional cellist committed to helping students develop as musicians, collaborators, and lifelong learners. He believes that students can find enjoyment and success at any level, and inspiration to achieve the next level of instrumental playing and music-making is created by teaching, guiding, and supporting students through every opportunity possible because “it all helps.”
Mr. Wasson teaches students to use as many faculties of learning in instrumental playing as possible (to his best and growing ability!). From the beginning fundamentals to the All-State Solo players, students learn to help each other continue to grow through the humanity, collaboration, and support of everyone contributing to their success. Students are guided through opportunities to perform in solos, ensembles, youth symphonies, and multitudes of other opportunities that exist throughout the country and gain experiences, knowledge, and skills in every collaboration that continue to inspire growth and creativity.
Mr. Wasson holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education with an emphasis in instrumental music from the University of Central Missouri, and a Master of Music in Cello Performance from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. His student teaching and directing was with Mr. Joseph Keeney in the Lee’s Summit R7 School District. During graduate study at Wisconsin, Mr. Wasson served as a teaching assistant under Janet Jensen, teaching string pedagogy courses, conducting the All-University String Orchestra, and coaching chamber ensembles for non-music majors. Principal cello teachers include Michael Bersin and Parry Karp. Every person who has been an inspiration has been able to demonstrate that the larger picture in music-making is making it enjoyable to everyone involved.
Prior to returning to Kansas City, Mr. Wasson taught and performed in Wisconsin, Alabama, and Indiana. His experience in Alabama includes concurrently teaching 5th–12th grade string orchestra, serving as an adjunct cello instructor, and performing as Principal Cellist of the Shoals Symphony. While teaching in Indiana, Mr. Wasson guided students through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and their return to in-person performance. Following that transition, his students earned consistent Gold ratings at district and state competitions in orchestra, solo, and ensemble categories.
As a performer, Mr. Wasson is a core cellist of the Lee’s Summit Symphony Orchestra, performing alongside other music teachers, professionals, and enthusiasts and he remains active in a variety of other collaborations. His experiences as a musician continue to shape his teaching philosophy and inspire students to pursue growth, creativity, and excellence through music.
For inquiries about teaching, supporting, inspiring, and creating music please reach out using the contact link below!