Ciara commences her first year at ANAM in 2026, under the tutelage of Ben Jacks.
A horn player from Melbourne, Ciara completed a Bachelor of Music with Honours at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music University of Melbourne, studying under Carla Blackwood.
Originally a clarinettist and pianist, Ciara discovered her passion for the horn in high school and transitioned fully to the instrument at the beginning of her undergraduate degree.
Throughout her studies, Ciara has had the opportunity to participate in inspiring masterclasses with international horn players including Katy Woolley, Andrew Bain, Přemysl Vojta, Genevieve Clifford, Anneke Scott, and Simen Fegran.
Ciara is excited by the varied musicial opportunities that horn playing offers. Chamber music became an unexpectedly important part of her musical journey, particularly as co-founder of Auralis Ensemble, a wind quintet based in Melbourne. In 2025, Ciara travelled to Chile with Auralis and also performed as principal horn in the Portillo Festival Academy Orchestra, touring major concert halls and working with leading international tutors.
Above all, Ciara's true passion for the horn lies in orchestral performance, performing regularly with Orchestra Victoria, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, and the Symphonic Cinema Orchestra. Ciara was also a member of the Australian Youth Orchestra, where she performed many exciting works such as Strauss' magnificent Ein Heldenleben.
Outside of her musical instruments, Ciara loves being outdoors. Whether hiking, camping, or tackling new tracks off-road 4WD driving, she is always up for an adventure (as long as she can bring her mouthpiece along!)
FROM: VIC. Lands of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung peoples of the Kulin Nation.
Ciara is supported by ANAM Syndicate donors Graeme Hairsine, Viorica Samson, Anonymous.
Photo by Pia Johnson