Tavi Ungerleider
Naperville
Summary
Mathematics-statistics graduate with strong analytical training complemented by extensive solo and orchestral experience. Recognized for disciplined execution, precision and leadership while serving as principal and assistant principal cellist in major symphonies. Continuing to expand quantitative skills in Python, machine learning and statistical techniques. Eager to leverage quantitative expertise, rapid learning and collaborative problem-solving in data-driven roles such as data analysis, business analytics or machine learning.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
First Assistant Cello
Montreal Symphony Orchestra (OSM)
01.2018 - Current
- Serve as first assistant and acting principal cellist for a major symphony orchestra, leading the cello section during rehearsals and performances and mentoring younger musicians.
- Collaborate closely with conductors to shape musical interpretation and achieve alignment across the ensemble, demonstrating clear communication and leadership under pressure.
- Adapt quickly to new and complex works by preparing dozens of programs each season, cultivating discipline, time management and rapid learning skills directly applicable to data-driven roles.
Visiting Professor, Orchestra Repertoire
University of Montréal
09.2023 - 12.2023
- Taught orchestra repertoire classes to university students, focusing on preparation strategies for auditions and performance of standard excerpts.
- Coordinated course logistics and scheduled classes during a faculty sabbatical to ensure continuous instruction.
- Provided individualized feedback, mentoring and coaching to help students improve technical and musical skills.
Faculty
Opus Chamber Music Camp
06.2023 - 08.2023
- Directed chamber music groups of young musicians, guiding rehearsals and shaping programs for end-of-camp performances.
- Delivered a workshop presentation on articulation in music performance, enhancing public-speaking abilities.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Mathematics-Statistics
Columbia University
New York, NY01.2012
Master of Music - Cello
The Juilliard School
New York, NY01.2014
Skills
- Quantitative Analysis: Strong grounding in statistical inference, probability, linear algebra and mathematical modeling
- Programming & Tools: Familiar with Python (pandas, NumPy), R, MATLAB, SQL and advanced Excel for data manipulation and visualization
- Data Interpretation: Able to translate complex datasets into clear insights and communicate findings to diverse stakeholders
- Leadership & Collaboration: Led the cello section during performances, working closely with conductors to determine articulations, phrasings and division; adept at balancing multiple priorities and aligning a team toward a shared artistic vision
Languages & Interests
Languages: Native English; conversational French.
Hobbies and Interests
Chess, basketball and running.
Accomplishments
- Lalo Cello Concerto, Berkshire Symphony – Performed as concerto soloist with the Berkshire Symphony at Williams College to an audience of over a thousand, receiving critical acclaim.
- Shostakovich Cello Concerto, Brevard Music Festival – Featured soloist performing Shostakovich’s Cello Concerto in a high-pressure festival concert before an audience of approximately 1,000, demonstrating mastery of complex repertoire and confidence under pressure.
Awards
Queen Elisabeth Competition, First Round Participant (2017) – recognition in one of the world’s most prestigious classical music competitions., Frank Huntington Beebe Fund for Musicians – Grant recipient (2015–2016)., National Federation of Music Clubs Young Artist Award – Recipient of a competitive $15K grant supporting artistic development (2013–2015).
Timeline
Visiting Professor, Orchestra Repertoire
University of Montréal
09.2023 - 12.2023
Faculty
Opus Chamber Music Camp
06.2023 - 08.2023
First Assistant Cello
Montreal Symphony Orchestra (OSM)
01.2018 - Current
Master of Music - Cello
The Juilliard School
Bachelor of Arts - Mathematics-Statistics
Columbia University
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