<p>It entirely depends on the students’ needs. If you are ready for professional polishing, competition entry etc, the studios of Ralph Kirshbaum (USC), Joel Krosnick (Juilliard), Larry Lesser (NEC) etc take some beating. Other great performer/teachers with top studios include Steve Doane (Eastman), Paul Katz (NEC), Colin Carr (Stony Brook). However, many undergrads need a lot of technical building, a teacher with time and regularity to invest in them as individuals as well as cellists, and someone with the patience and vision to stick with that student while they develop, often ready for one of these other studios at grad level. Some wonderful technical builders are Richard Aaron (U of Michigan), Melissa Kraut (CIM), Alison Wells (Peabody), Amir Eldan (Oberlin). In all these studios you will have a lot of attention technically and will be transformed in 4 years. Take a good look at where you are, what you need,and where you will best thrive.
Above all, TAKE LESSONS everywhere! Good luck!</p>
<p>I pretty much agree with the above statement but I would include Steve Doane in the group who can work wonders with students with some technical issues.</p>