Ayn Balija

Ayn Balija is Associate Professor of Viola at the University of Virginia, where she maintains a vibrant studio and coaches chamber music. She serves as Principal Violist of the Charlottesville Symphony at the University of Virginia and is a member of the Rivanna String Quartet, actively contributing to the musical life of the institution and region.

Education:

• Bachelor of Music, Oberlin Conservatory of Music
• Master of Music, The Cleveland Institute of Music
• Doctor of Musical Arts, James Madison University

Her principal mentors include Peter Slowik, Jeffrey Irvine, and Karen Tuttle. Dr. Balija’s research and professional interests focus on viola performance, chamber music, and music pedagogy. She is deeply committed to holistic teaching and student development, fostering a studio environment that emphasizes artistic growth and technical mastery. Her performances span solo, orchestral, and chamber genres, with a strong commitment to new music, including premiering commissioned works such as Jorge Variego’s Enviaolo for viola and piano.

Dr. Balija has been recognized through invitations to perform at prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall and to present at major conferences including the International Viola Society Congress. She has taught at summer festivals nationwide, including the Tennessee Governor’s School for the Arts and Yachats Music Festival, and served as interim viola instructor at James Madison University.

Scientific Awards and Recognitions:

• Invited to tour with Pittsburgh Symphony on East Coast Tour including Carnegie Hall performance
• Presented at American String Teachers Association
• Presented at American Viola Society’s Viola Festival
• Presented at International Viola Society’s 44th Congress in Wellington, New Zealand
• Published on American Viola Society’s Teacher’s Toolbox page

She advises a studio of viola students, many of whom have advanced to top-tier music programs. Dr. Balija founded Violapalooza, an annual all-viola event featuring masterclasses and performances by renowned artists such as Kim Kashkashian, George Taylor, and Paul Neubauer. She has performed with the Richmond Symphony, Williamsburg Symphony, Roanoke Symphony, and ProMusica Chamber Orchestra, recording two CDs under the Summit label. Her work bridges performance, education, and community engagement in the classical music world.