Symphony Stables

In a way it’s hard for me to pen a review for Walter, Gisela and Symphony Stables when all the words I can use are superlatives like honest, conversant, personable, patient, excellent teachers and listeners etc… I personally, generally don’t trust any endorsement or opinion that seems too heavily weighted to one side. Our experience there however, has been so good and positive on so many levels over the years, that there’s just no way around it. I simply thank the stars we found them.

I just went here for the first time today. What a warm, welcoming couple Gisela and Walter are. I dont think I've ever had such a positive experience walking into a stable/horse facility. It was so refreshing to feel so welcome and comfortable right away on the first visit. I'm so looking forward to the next time out.

I've been taking lessons from Gisela Mantler, Symphony Stables, for almost 4 years. Gisela is a kind, sensitive and extremely knowledgeable instructor and horse trainer. She balances her attention to detail and safety with fun and lots of positive reinforcement. Gisela communicates with horses in an awe-inspiring way and I'm learning so much from her as she shares and coaches me. Walter and Gisela found my first horse at the beginning of this year, ensuring the right match while remaining sensitive to my budget. It's so handy to have the tack shop on site, too, and they have a surprisingly large inventory of equipment and clothing at all price points. The facilities are clean and organized with an indoor arena for winter riding and 3 beautiful outdoor sand rings and riding trails. I've also participated in incredibly informative clinics and workshops throughout the year: clinics that build confidence, trust, relaxation and the bond with your horse. The moment I step out of my car I am surrounded by serenity and peacefulness: Symphony Stables has become a part of my life and, Gisela and Walter and the Symphony gang, truly good friends.

I have driven up from Kentucky for three clinics as well as individual lessons over the last seven or eight years using Symphony lesson horses. My experiences have been so positive that I plan to ship my gelding up for a month of training. Because of Walt and Gis's patience, guidance, and skill, I have gained the confidence necessary to form a relationship of mutual respect both on the ground and under saddle with my horse. Walt and Gis's insightful and sensitive coaching of horsemanship skills has hepled me grow as both a horseperson and human.

Becoming a skillful rider is really up to you, but you want competent, and educated coaching to help you get there. Symphony Stables is your choice no matter what level your riding skill. I have always found Gisela, and Walter to be caring of their horses and respectful of their students needs, and abilities. Along with providing a positive environment they continue to build on my success and challenge me to push a little farther each time. I have been coming here over four years now, I keep a horse and ride here, and last year I even moved from Windsor to Leamington to be closer. So give them a call, and make an appointment, and see if Symphony is for you.

I came to Symphony as a fairly green rider and then bought a horse from them that had the basics but needed a fair bit of work to learn to relax and respond to cues. They have done a fabulous job on both of us. Their patient approach takes into account the needs of horse AND rider and they are always striving to learn and pass that learning onto their students and horses. I have also seen them take in very challenging horses for training and have been amazed at the turn around they have accomplished with horses others have given up on. I have recommended them to others and would not hesitate to recommend them for a horse or rider at any level.

Walter and Gisela are lovely people to deal with. They run an amazing outfit and they are very competent in their maner of work. They instill confidence in each and every student who has the good sense to tap into their knowledge.

I cannot say enough about Gisela & Walt. Sean lives with Autism, and from the very first day we met I knew that this would be a long lasting relationship. It has been numerous years since he has been getting riding lessons from Gisela. She has an unbelievable gift with simply just being" and letting Sean direct. It is quite amazing to see them working together. Just check out his youtube video and this will tell it all!"

Our daughter has been taking therapeutic riding lessons from Gisela for a couple of years and we couldn't be more pleased. Gisela is gifted in working with special needs riders.

Walt and Gisela are a fabulous team of trainers and coaches and are always willing to show you something new! My husband and I both got horses from them, board them there, buy our tack and supplies there, and get coached there. I cannot imagine going anywhere else. They teach you so much about you and your horse that I cannot say enough good things about them. My riding and my horse would definitely not be as they are today without Symphony. If you are looking for an amazing experience, this is it!