Quartet Members
Neil Puzon (Founder) studied violin with Nancy McAllister at the Wilmington Academy of Music in Wilmington, NC. Mr. Puzon continued his violin studies and chamber music at the University of Maryland at College Park. He has performed at Howard University, Lisner Auditorium, George Mason Center for the Arts, and the Kennedy Center. He performs in chamber music recitals throughout Southern Maryland and around DC. Currently, Mr. Puzon resides in St. Charles, MD and enjoys teaching violin at his music studio.
Tara Planeta earned her Masters Degree in Violin Performance from Arizona State University, and has also studied at the postgraduate level. She has performed numerous regional orchestras and opera companies across the nation. As an educator and pedagogue, Ms. Planeta maintains a full private teaching schedule, and is the Executive Director of the Fauquier County Youth Orchestra. She is also the Founder and 1st Violinist of the Atoka String Quartet based in Loudoun/Fauquier Counties in Virginia Hunt Country.
Jian Song is a violinist currently studying at Shenandoah Conservatory working on a Doctor of Music Arts degree. Mr. Song enjoys performing with the Atoka String Quartet as well as St. Charles, and also teaches privately. He has been working on his own summer festival for numerous years, bringing in nationally-renowned teachers for young students to study with.
Joan Burdette is a cellist living, teaching, and performing in Northern Virginia. She earned her Master’s in Music Performance from Ball State University, and her Bachelor’s in Music Performance from Shenandoah University. She has attended various summer music festivals and performed with several local orchestras. Mrs.Burdette also teaches private lessons, and is currently Suzuki Certified through Book 3 while also incorporating the Orff Method. She believes in the emphasis of listening skills to help students in becoming more sensitive musicians.
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St. Charles Strings
St. Charles String Quartet 