Lesson Special - Up to 20% OFF! Get Started Now with a Risk-Free Trial!
I'm a passionate and entertaining instructor who loves working with students by sharing my love for music. In 2014, I graduated from Converse College with a Bachelor of Music degree in Viola Performance and in 2016, I graduated from DePaul University with a Master of Music degree. I enjoy playing violin and viola. Violin was actually my primary instrument for the first 12 years of my playing career. I currently play with a number of orchestras in the South Carolina area; including: South Carolina Philharmonic Orchestra (sub), Greenville Symphony Orchestra (sub), Aiken Symphony Orchestra and The Rock Hill Symphony Orchestra.
My teaching experience dates back to my college days, as I began teaching private lessons part time 10 years ago. As a teacher, I make it my duty to make sure my students understand music by finding the reason why music moves people. Playing violin and viola is more than a hobby for me, it is a lifestyle. I've played in various countries and all over the United States sharing my gift and love for music. It is my responsibility to make sure my student's goals are attainable and achieved. In my playing and teaching experience, I've found that a combination of classical and modern music can go a long way in helping students to enjoy practicing and continuing to learn. Learning music doesn't have to be boring and robotic, it should be fun, if it isn't fun, I'm not doing my job.
For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. As my students progress, I introduce the Carl Flesch scale system, which builds their mobility and lays the foundation for the technique required to play their instrument.
Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music! Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. I often ask for the student to give feedback on themselves. This allows for them to be conscious of what is incorrect, therefore they'll know how and why not to make the mistake repeatedly.
Ms. Cierra A. has really helped me come out of my shell and play to my full potential. Without her guidance I wouldn't be able to play with confidence.
Ms. Cierra is an AMAZING teacher! Her method of teaching is fun, but yet instructional. Ms. Cierra helped me prepare for the SCMEA All-State Orchestra audition. Her skillful knowledge, years of experience, patience, and fun approach, made me look forward to my every lesson. Though I had to practice 3 hours a day, the hard work paid off!! With Ms.Cierra's help, I MADE IT to the All-State Orchestra. I could not have done it without her. She is such a gifted violinist/violist, and you will NEVER regret having her as your teacher. I will never forget the amazing and fun lessons, that I had with her. She is one of the best teachers that I know. I am forever grateful to her for helping me achieve my goal of being part of the All-state orchestra! It was the most wonderful experience having her as my teacher!