Meet Anokyewaa Oppong Wadie

2 days ago
2 min read

Anokyewaa Oppong Wadie is an accomplished violinist with over 16 years of study and performance. Inspired by Grammy Award–winning jazz and classical violinist Regina Carter, she began classical violin studies at age nine through the Suzuki method, becoming the first violinist in her musical family. Over the years, she trained with some of the Midwest’s most respected educators, including Julia Sizer (University of Chicago Symphony), Lucinda Ali Landing (Chicago Sinfonietta), and Suzanne Rickman (Illinois Philharmonic).

Anokyewaa earned her bachelor’s degree in violin performance at Northeastern Illinois University under Dr. Jaime Gorgojo, and she went on to complete her master’s degree in music pedagogy, focusing her research on the works of Black composers.

In 2023, she won 1st place in the regional round of the National Association of Negro Musicians String Competition and competed nationally in Dallas, Texas. In 2024, she advanced to the final round of the Northeastern Illinois University Concerto Competition. She is also the founding member of the Noir Quartet, an ensemble highlighting the artistry of Black women string players.

As the daughter of first-generation immigrants from Jamaica and Ghana, Anokyewaa brings dedication, resilience, and cultural pride to her teaching and performing. Her teaching philosophy is rooted in the motto “Practice makes progress.” She believes students thrive in a warm, encouraging environment where mistakes are part of growth. Her methods emphasize example-based and auditory learning, helping students develop strong ears, clear technique, and confidence.

Beyond building technical skill, Anokyewaa is passionate about student success. Her students have won school competitions, scholarships, and solo opportunities, often blossoming in confidence under her guidance. She teaches primarily classical violin, using trusted resources such as Suzuki method books, I Can Read Music, and Rachel Barton Pine’s Music by Black Composers. At Melody Mart, Anokyewaa strives to create a supportive space where students feel inspired to achieve their goals and families feel connected to their progress.