Sara Chiesa

Sara Chiesa is a Special Faculty member in Vocal Coaching & Collaborative Piano at Carnegie Mellon University's School of Music. She holds a Doctor of Music in Collaborative Piano from Florida State University, alongside degrees from Oakland University and Bowling Green State University. Her work bridges education, performance, and leadership in classical music, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration across opera, musical theatre, and cabaret.

• Education:
• B.M. in Piano Performance, Oakland University
• M.M. in Piano Performance, Bowling Green State University
• Doctor of Music in Collaborative Piano, Florida State University
• Roles:
• Head of Collaborative Piano & Music Director at La Musica Lirica (Italy)
• Music Director/Pianist for Uncovered (world premiere LGBTQ+/feminist opera)
• Resident Guest Artist Coach with l’Opéra de Montréal, Fort Worth Opera, and Detroit Opera

Her research interests focus on redefining leadership in classical music through inclusive practices. During the pandemic, she produced over 40 music videos and led the The Black Composer Speaks project, spotlighting under-recorded works by Black composers in partnership with the Hampsong Foundation.

Professional highlights include collaborations with Virginia Opera, Arizona Opera, and New Opera Singapore. She plays a central role in Pittsburgh’s Resonance Works, serving as Rehearsal Pianist and Coach for major productions like Rigoletto and Side by Side by Sondheim.