Maud Powell String Institute: Empowering Immigrant & Low-Income Families in Novato, CA

Dorisiya Yosifova is the passionate founder and president of the Maud Powell String Institute, a transformative music school launched in Northern Marin County, California, in February 202. Although the Institute began in Massachusetts back in 2020, Dorisiya recently brought her vision for equitable, high‑quality string education to her local community in California. A professional violinist with international training and recognitions, Dorisiya received her B.M. from Oberlin Conservatory and earned her M.M. from Boston Conservatory at Berklee, studying under Rictor Noren.

 

The Inspiration Behind the Name

The Institute’s namesake honors the legacy of Maud Powell, a trailblazing American violinist of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Powell was the first American violinist to gain international recognition. She also premiered major violin concertos and advocated for female representation in classical music. By invoking Powell’s name, the organization underscores her mission: to champion excellence and inclusivity for underrepresented communities.

 

What They Do: A Full-Spectrum String Program

The Institute offers a comprehensive string preparatory curriculum, designed for young students in immigrant and low-income families who would otherwise lack access to this level of instruction:

1. Private lessons on violin, viola, cello, or bass.
2. Group instruction from day one—no extra fees.
3. Orchestral and chamber music training as students progress.
4. Virtual support, ensuring continuous instruction even during disruptions. 5. Instruments provided. Every student receives a reliable, quality instrument at no extra cost.

Dorisiya explains that classical-music training like this is typically fragmented and expensive, with separate costs for private lessons, group classes, ensembles, and instrument rentals. At

Maud Powell String Institute, all of that is included in a single low-cost program, with many students receiving half or full scholarships.

 

Why They Stand Out

Several factors make Maud Powell String Institute unique in Northern Marin County

• All-inclusive tuition: Students enjoy private instruction, group lessons, ensemble training, and instrument rental in one fee.
• No financial barriers: In addition to being low cost, most students attend on half or full scholarships. The Institute was founded on the principle that anyone should be able to access quality music education regardless of financial circumstance.
• Pedagogical excellence: Dorisiya is certified in String Pedagogy and is experienced as a graduate teaching assistant. She has taught violin for over 10 years, and specializes in early education for young beginners.
• Virtual support is also available even if in-person sessions are interrupted. In early music education, continuity is vital to ensure progress and avoid regression.
• Community impact: The Institute serves a vital need in the community for families who value music but lack access to traditional resources.

 

A Personal Mission with Deep Roots

Growing up in Bulgaria, Dorisiya experienced firsthand the barriers that limited access to quality classical music education. She relocated to pursue her training and at the age of 15 she earned full scholarships to the Idyllwild Arts Academy by auditioning. This scholarship allowed her access to high quality education.

Dorisiya is driven by the impact her own mentors and teachers had on her life. She recalls how her graduate-school mentor Rictor Noren believed in her gift and opened her eyes to her potential, inspiring her to pursue teaching. That profound encouragement shaped her life’s work.

Her commitment deepened during an injury that sidelined her performing career. She found purpose and responsibility in teaching, especially knowing the ripple effects of misinformation and poor technique on young musicians’ futures. That experience affirmed her dedication to being a teacher who empowers students with strong foundations in musical health and artistry. It’s Dorisiya’s mission to build solid technique from day one, preventing future issues and ensuring every student’s physical wellbeing and continued success.

 

Local Roots and a Strong Support Team

Though originally from Bulgaria, Dorisiya moved to the states at age 15 to pursue music education at the Idyllwild Arts Academy; she now resides in California and deeply appreciates the region’s community spirit and strong outdoor lifestyle.

She’s supported by a team of dedicated individuals, including Eitan Spiegel, who is a local aviation professional and a professional tuba player. He is also the Institute’s treasurer and a linchpin in logistics and operations. A small but enthusiastic group of volunteers also support events and daily activities.

 

Looking Ahead

Since launching the Novato location this past February, the Institute has already welcomed many students and helped build supportive local partnerships, including with Marin Arts. The Institute remains deeply committed to affordability and access, with scholarships at the core of its mission.

In the future, Dorisiya hopes to expand community engagement, introduce outreach, and deepen brand awareness in the region. For now, she’s focused on delivering excellence every day for every student.

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In short: The Maud Powell String Institute under Dorisiya Yosifova provides a rare and vital opportunity offering full spectrum classical string educations to families that are often forgotten.Built on a legacy of pioneering woman musician, the program combines scholarship accessibility, pedagogical integrity, and community impact into a powerful mission for Northern California’s next generation of string players.

1968 11th Ave, San Francisco, CA 94116

Website: maudpowellstringinstitute.org

Phone: 415-940-0706

Email: maudpowellinstitute@gmail.com