Molly Rife

A native of Tucson, Arizona, Molly Rife began playing the cello at age 10. Growing up in a family full of musicians, it was no surprise that she developed a passion for music as a youngster. Molly decided to brave the cold and is now an active performer and teacher in Chicago. Molly holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Performance from Arizona State University where she studied with Thomas Landschoot. She received her Master of Music degree in Performance from DePaul University under the tutelage of Stephen Balderston. 

Molly currently holds a position with the Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra. She has also performed with the Tucson Symphony Orchestra, Orchestra Iowa, the Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra, the Illinois Symphony Orchestra, and the New Philharmonic Orchestra. In addition to orchestra, Molly enjoys playing in a chamber music setting and is a member of the Cloudgate String Quartet.

Molly is enthusiastic about various genres of music and thrives on adding cello to a wide scope of musical ensembles. Molly is a member of the 30-piece ensemble called Mucca Pazza, and a local Chicago band, Urban Twang. She has performed live on stage with artists such as Kygo, Whitney, and Noname. She has also performed and recorded with bands and artists including Intoitoverit, Sir the Baptist, Kweku Collins, Joe George, B Forrest, Gia Margaret, Molly Coleman, New Context, Ephraim Bugumba, Da$htone, Inho and the Violet Suns, and Sidewalk Chalk, among others. Molly has performed at festivals including Lollapalooza, Electric Forest, and Summerfest. Molly has also recorded on soundtracks for films including The Dark and the Wicked, Scrooge and Marley, and the Shedd Aquarium Aquatic Show,

In addition to performing, Molly loves to teach aspiring cellists of all ages, both as a Suzuki and traditional instructor. Molly maintains a private cello studio and teaches at the Merit School of Music. She has also taught at Terra Sounds School of Music and Arts, the People's Music School, Southport Performing Arts Conservatory, City Strings Chicago, Music For Kids NFP, and Sherry-Brener Ltd.

When Molly isn’t playing the cello, she is most likely journaling, taking pictures, drinking coffee, and playing with her dog, Biscuit.