Violinist · Leader · Researcher · Educator

Historically informed, awareness-based violin lessons for thoughtful adults and professionals – online and in Basel.

“The violin can be both a craft and a conversation – I work with people who want both.”

I am Léna Ruisz, a violinist, leader, researcher, and educator specialising in historically informed performance and mindful, awareness-based teaching.

Trained in Vienna and Basel, Switzerland, I hold master’s degrees in both performance and pedagogy. As a recipient of the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship, I was honoured with a portrait video that follows my artistic and educational work in depth.

Performance and collaboration

I am regularly invited to perform as a concertmaster, soloist, or ensemble member with groups such as Freiburger Barockorchester, La Folia Barockorchester, Balthasar Neumann Ensemble, Academia Montis Regalis, Capricornus Consort, Accademia Bizantina, and Trondheim Barokk.

These collaborations shape my understanding of ensemble communication, stylistic nuance, and leadership within historically informed performance and modern orchestral life.

Alongside an active international concert career, I collaborate with Theresia Orchestra as an ambassador, leading international workshops and publishing research on their educational platform. Through this work, I meet musicians from across Europe and abroad who are curious about how historical awareness can deepen both technical freedom and artistic expression.

If you would like a clear introduction to what I mean by Historically Informed Performance, you are very welcome to start with my article What Is Historically Informed Performance – and Why It Still Matters in the Studio Library.

Teaching philosophy

My approach to teaching is simple: learning the violin is not about control, but about awareness.

When we understand the natural relationship between sound, gesture, and intention, technique becomes more effortless and music begins to speak.

I combine the clarity of modern pedagogy with the depth of historical insight, guiding my students to develop both precision and freedom – whatever their instrument setup.

Each lesson is a conversation: between bow and string, mind and body, student and teacher.

Together we explore:

• how phrasing mirrors speech

• how resonance arises from alignment and balance

• how historical context makes technique feel more logical and natural

The goal is not only to play the notes, but to understand their meaning – historically, musically, and personally.

If you enjoy the “why” as much as the “how”, you might like the longer manifesto-style piece Inside the Studio – How I Teach, Think, and Listen, where I unfold my musical and educational ars poetica.

For learners at every level

I work mainly with adult players and advanced teens in online lessons, as well as with professional colleagues who want a sparring partner.

For adult learners, lessons offer a space to:

• rediscover curiosity and sensitivity

• develop a healthier relationship with practice

• weave the violin into everyday life in a way that feels sustainable and meaningful

For professional violinists and conservatoire students, sessions can focus on:

• integrating historically informed performance into a modern setup

• exploring gut strings, Baroque bows, and historical pitch

• preparing auditions, recitals, or recording projects with more stylistic depth

If you are returning to the instrument after a long break, you may recognise yourself in Rediscovering the Violin in Adulthood: A Journey of Sound, Sensitivity, and Self, written especially with adult restarters in mind.

Each session is tailored – structured yet flexible, thoughtful yet intuitive. You receive personalised guidance, exercises, and resources that support lasting growth in both practice and performance.

My aim

My aim is simple: to help you play with ease, depth, and authenticity, building a connection between historical understanding and your own musical voice.

If you are ready to explore your sound in a new way, I would be glad to guide you – one phrase, one gesture, one note at a time.

What you can do next

Either way, we begin where you are now – with your sound, your questions, and your curiosity – and let the rest grow from there.

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