Grade 10 student Ciara Z. never imagined that one curious moment at the piano would set her on a path of awards, performances, and giving back. We caught up with Ciara to hear how she’s turning that spark into a mission to make the arts more accessible for everyone.

What are your dreams or goals in music?

My goal is to use music as a means of giving back. I’ve experienced firsthand how music can instill self-confidence and a place to release emotions, and I want to be able to share that feeling with others, especially those who might not have the same opportunities to access music education.

This desire led me to start The EIT Foundation (Empower, Inspire, Together), a non-governmental organisation, dedicated to providing underprivileged children with opportunities in music and the arts. Through this initiative, I hope to inspire and motivate young people through the healing power of music, while also giving aspiring young adults a platform to give back to their communities and enrich their own musical experiences.

What is your earliest memory of playing the piano?

My earliest memory of the piano goes back to when I was eight, jet-lagged and unable to sleep at my grandparents’ home in Saskatchewan, Canada. Wandering around the house, I ended up at their piano, pressing the keys out of curiosity while looking up at my mom’s childhood music certificates. I didn’t know it then, but that moment sparked my fascination with the piano.

What’s a win or milestone that meant a lot to you?

One milestone that really meant a lot to me was realising how far music has taken me. I’ve been playing since I was eight and a half, and studying with professors from NAFA, Juilliard, YST, and the Manhattan School of Music has pushed me to grow in ways I never expected.

A moment that really stood out was winning First Prize at the Singapore International Classic Piano Competition 2025 and Gold at the Singapore Raffles Music Festival 2025. Not because of the awards themselves, but because it felt like a quiet reminder that all the long practices and self-doubt were actually leading somewhere!

How do you feel being at CIS helped prepare you for where you are today?

Through performance opportunities like BeatFreaked, choir accompaniment, and rock band performances, I’ve gained valuable experiences performing in front of an audience and collaborating with other musicians. These experiences have helped me refine my technical skills and my ability to adapt, communicate, and connect with others through music.

What I appreciate most about CIS is the supportive culture that surrounds its students. From encouraging teachers to friends who celebrate every performance, I’ve always felt empowered to take risks and explore new ideas. CIS has helped me build confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose in my own art.

Thank you for sharing, Ciara! We hope your story inspires others to follow their passions and make a positive difference in the community.