Sierra Allen

Sierra Allen serves as an Applied Lesson Instructor in the Clarinet Department at Biola University's Conservatory of Music, with additional teaching appointments at Concordia University Irvine and a private studio for clarinet/saxophone students across multiple states. As an active freelance clarinetist in Los Angeles, she performs principal roles on major film scores including "Encanto" and "The Call of the Wild," and collaborates with ensembles such as the Los Angeles Philharmonic and Seattle Symphony.

Educational background:

• BM in Music Education, Biola University
• MM in Clarinet Performance, California State University, Fullerton
• DMA in Clarinet Performance, UCLA (2022); dissertation on E-flat and bass clarinet doubling in orchestral and chamber music

Her research centers on auxiliary clarinet techniques, particularly E-flat and bass clarinet doubling, addressing specialized demands in professional orchestral settings. Dr. Allen integrates physical mechanics with cognitive strategies in her teaching philosophy, empowering students to develop personalized performance approaches that build technical proficiency and mental resilience.

Professional recognition includes:

• UCLA Graduate Research Mentorship award during dissertation year

Dr. Allen mentors students through university teaching assistantships (including two years for UCLA's woodwind chamber music course) and her geographically diverse private studio. Her instructional methodology combines studio orchestral experience with scholarly research, fostering comprehensive musicianship across in-person and online platforms while maintaining active performance engagements with Hollywood studio orchestras and regional ensembles.