Danielle Belen

Professor with a strong background in violin performance and education, Danielle Belen serves as an Associate Professor of Music and a full-time violin faculty member at the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance. Her journey in music education began at the Colburn School in Los Angeles, California, where she was a distinguished violin faculty member. Her exceptional talent and dedication to the violin have been recognized through numerous accolades, including her victory at the prestigious 2008 Sphinx Competition. Professor Belen has graced the stage as a soloist with major symphonies across the United States, captivating audiences with her artistry and technical prowess. Her commitment to contemporary music is evident in her debut Naxos recording, released in 2009, featuring works by the living composer Lawrence Dillon. This recording marked the beginning of her ongoing efforts to commission and perform new works for the violin, contributing to the evolution of the instrument's repertoire. In addition to her teaching and performance career, Professor Belen is the visionary founder of Center Stage Strings, a summer camp and performance festival dedicated to nurturing the talents of gifted young musicians. This initiative reflects her passion for mentoring the next generation of violinists and providing them with opportunities to excel in their musical pursuits. Her contributions to the field of music extend beyond the concert hall and classroom, as she actively engages in initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion in classical music. Through her work, she continues to inspire and empower aspiring musicians, fostering a vibrant and inclusive musical community. Professor Belen's dedication to her craft and her students is evident in her dynamic teaching style and her commitment to excellence. Her influence as an educator and performer resonates throughout the University of Michigan and beyond, making her a respected figure in the world of classical music.