About Me

Jack Kawamura Peterson is a versatile cellist, educator and multi instrumentalist currently based in Chicago IL. A native of Louisville KY, Jack began studying the cello at age 13 at the University of Louisville School of Music and went on to receive his bachelor's degree in Cello Performance from the Eastman School of Music.

Jack has been principal cellist of the Eastman Symphony Orchestra and Opera Orchestra, the Boston University Tanglewood Institute Orchestra, the Youth Performing Arts School Philharmonia and has performed in numerous world-renowned concert halls, some of which include: Hilbert Circle Theater, Serge Koussevitsky Shed, Seiji Ozawa Hall, Whitney Hall and Kodak Hall. Jack has attended numerous reputable summer music institutes including the Boston University Tanglewood Institute, Pierre Monteux School, Bowdoin International Music Festival and Sewanee Summer Music Festival. He has also participated in masterclasses with Norman Fisher, Alan Rafferty and members of the Ying Quartet.

His primary teachers have included Steven Doane, Alan Harris and Paul York.

Alongside his classical pursuits, Jack is an an avid cross genre collaborator, enjoying frequent collaborations with various non-classical ensembles and bands, appearing on numerous studio albums. He has most recently worked with artists including Fuzzy Poser, The Tomblands, The Phantom Broadcast, Poor Calvin, Brian McGrath, Fat Night, Audrey Q and Books and is a regular member of folk rock outfit Rebecca Rego and the Trainmen. The Trainmen recently released their third studio album Speaking of Witches, recorded at Bon Iver’s acclaimed April Base studio in Wisconsin. In addition to his work in the studio, Jack enjoys frequent performances throughout the Midwest, with recent appearances including on Chicago’s WGN-TV News and on Louisville’s WFPK radio station.

Aside from his performance career, Jack is a passionate, committed educator who teaches private lessons to students of all ages and levels. He believes in approaching the cello in a holistic, kinesthetic and fun way, promoting a positive and comfortable approach to the instrument and a sense of ease while playing. Jack emphasizes the importance of technique serving as a means, not an end, in successful, musical and fulfilling cello playing.