Meg Bonta picked up a violin for the first time when she was just 5 years old. Now, she not only plays 11 string instruments, she is also the co-founder of SoundTide Music School in Portage.
Growing up in Munster, Bonta attended Andrean High School before pursuing higher education at Valparaiso University where she majored in biochemistry and music. Her original plan was to become an eye doctor. However, during her junior year, she moved her focus towards a career in music.
"I had the opportunity to study with an amazing professor from the Chicago Symphony during my junior year of college,” Bonta said. “That shifted my career more towards music than science. I originally wanted to help people see with their eyes, but now, as a professional musician and educator, I get to help people see in a whole different way."
In 2016, Bonta and her husband co-founded SoundTide Music School to bring the kind of classical music education to Portage that she didn’t have as a child.
SoundTide currently has about 100 students. Bonta takes pride in the individualized curriculum they offer at the school.
"Every student has a unique plan tailored to their needs which evolves with them as they progress,” Bonta said. “This personalized approach has been a key factor in our success."
Bonta’s favorite part of teaching is watching her students grow, often guiding them from their first lessons until they head off to college.
“Being there to witness the journey of a student’s excitement when they first pick up an instrument to helping them prepare for college is incredibly rewarding,” Bonta said. “Watching them thrive and knowing they are destined for great things is truly amazing."
Through her dedication to music and education, Bonta earned the Outstanding Educator Award and the Diocesan Director Award. She also currently serves as the primary string soloist for the Diocese of Gary.
Among her many accomplishments, Bonta holds dear her solo violin performance at Carnegie Hall in February 2023.
"I specialized in a technique called scordatura, a technique that is rarely used in classical music today,” Bonta said. “I performed pieces from the ‘Mystery Sonatas’ from the 1670s. Additionally, I reimagined the tuning for modern instruments and even adjusted the tuning live in front of the audience. It was a dream come true — a truly magnificent experience."
Continuing to seek new challenges, Bonta is learning to play another string instrument — one with a rich history.
"I've been learning to play the viola da gamba, an instrument from the 1500s — from the Baroque period,” Bonta said. “It's a fascinating instrument with six strings and frets, originally from Spain. Before symphonies became popular, the viola da gamba was commonly used in chamber music and small ensembles. It’s played similarly to a small cello."
Outside of her professional life, Bonta enjoys composing music, studying, reading, and spending time outdoors with her husband, friends, and family.
"It's an incredible experience to work with such wonderful students every day,” Bonta said. “For me, this is the best job in the world."