Hailing from a small community in Idaho, violinist and educator Elizabeth J. Kelley brings a unique blend of artistry, academic scholarship, and passion to a diverse range of performing, scholarly, and educational projects. A lifelong pursuit of the performing arts—from violin and piano to dance and theatre—has shaped her into a versatile musician with a deep appreciation for collaborative expression. Elizabeth’s dedication has been recognized with numerous accolades, including the top prize at the 2023 IFMC Collegiate Award, a first-place finish with her quartet, sFOURzando, at the BCMS Young Artist String Quartet Competition, and a grant from the ASU GPSA for preliminary musicological research.

An active performer, she made her solo debut with the Brigham Young University-Idaho Symphony Orchestra and performs regularly as a section violinist with groups such as the Bozeman Symphony and Arizona Philharmonic. Beyond performance, Elizabeth’s commitment to music extends to the podium as a conductor. Her scholarly focus in musicology informs her interpretations, bringing a deeper historical and cultural context to both her performances and teaching.

Elizabeth's philosophy as an educator is rooted in the belief that music is a catalyst for personal growth. She cultivates a vibrant learning environment by mentoring students of all ages, helping them to see their potential and go beyond it. Her extensive training in methodologies such as Takadimi, Kodaly, and Orff underscores her commitment to a comprehensive and engaging teaching approach that goes far beyond traditional instruction.

Elizabeth holds a Bachelor of Music Education from Brigham Young University- Idaho and a Master in Violin Performance and Pedagogy with Dr. Katie McLin from Arizona State University. Currently enrolled in a PhD in Musicology at the University of Northern Texas, Elizabeth continues her mission to inspire the next generation of musicians while building her career as a performer, educator, and scholar. Her recent projects include research on early European perceptions of indigenous Chilean music and a solo recital centered on fundamental concerti for the violin.