Arielle Hicks (she/her) started piano lessons at the age of 6 with the head organist and pianist of First United Reformed Church, Dorothy Doctor. At 12, she received a scholarship to attend the Claremont School of Music under the instruction of Dr. Maria Goodman where she continued her classical training. While there, Arielle participated in the Music Teacher’s Association of California Certificate of Merit Program two years in a row and received branch honors. In high school, Arielle was given another scholarship to study under polish concert pianist Krzysztof Brzuza for advanced classical training. While with him, she participated in her 3rd Certificate of Merit Program, again receiving branch honors, which included a perfect score in performance. She also participated in several festivals including the Junior Bach Festival, Sonata Festival, and Sonatina Festival, as well as many recitals. During this time she was also the only student piano accompanist for her high school choir at Western Christian Schools which received top honors at the ACSI High School Choral Festival in San Francisco and Pasadena. After graduating high school, Arielle continued her piano studies with the Dean of Music at Azusa Pacific University, Dr. Joel Clifft. Arielle is passionate about instilling a love and appreciation for music in all her students.