Mario Castañeda settled in Switzerland in 2001, building on a Bachelor of Music degree earned with distinction from UDLA-P (Mexico). He pursued advanced studies at the Tibor Varga Academy in Sion under Marcio Carneiro and Susan Rybicki-Varga, earning his Teaching Diploma in Cello in 2007.
He went on to complete a CAS (Certificate of Advanced Studies) in Performance at the Lucerne School of Music (Musik Hochschule) in 2010 under the guidance of Marek Jerie. In parallel, he refined his technique in masterclasses with renowned cello masters such as Thomas Demenga and Frans Helmerson.
Passionate about teaching and eager to share music with young learners, Mario began training in the Suzuki pedagogy at the Lyon Suzuki Institute in 2008, successfully obtaining four levels of certification from the European Suzuki Association (ESA).
In 2010, he opened his first Suzuki cello class, and in 2015, he co-founded the Suzuki Music School of Geneva association. He performs regularly in recitals across Switzerland and internationally.
An ear-first pedagogy allowing students to approach the cello naturally, without the initial hurdle of reading sheet music.
Active parent involvement to support and encourage the child at home.
Open to young children starting as early as age 4, as well as adult beginners.
