Rachel Smith, cellist
Rachel is a cellist, writer, and music educator based in north Georgia. She completed an undergraduate degree in cello performance at Reinhardt University, where she served as the principal and co-principal cellist of the Reinhardt University Symphony Orchestra for four seasons. She was also the instructor's assistant for the Reinhardt University Chapter of the National String Project from 2011-2012. Rachel has extensive competition and performance experience. She won third place in the Harmony Station Concerto Competition in 2000, performed as Conference Recitalist of the Georgia Music Teachers Association audition in 2010, and won and performed as solo recitalist of the Reinhardt University Concerto Competition in 2012. An avid performer and freelancer since 2006, Rachel has performed with numerous organizations and ensembles in the greater Atlanta area. In addition to serving as co-founder and manager of HeartStrings, Rachel also maintains private cello and piano studios.
Miriam Pendrey, violinist
Miriam Pendrey is in her 22nd year as a string educator. She held the position of adjunct professor of violin at Reinhardt University from 2012-2015, where she performed as a member of faculty ensembles and coached the university orchestra. Miriam holds undergraduate degrees in music performance and education and a graduate degree in violin performance. As a string educator, she has coached string students in the public school system as well as served as an adjudicator for GMEA district auditions. In addition to maintaining a private violin studio, Mrs. Pendrey also performs with regional orchestras and teaches pre-K general music.
