“Dear Zara, You have been such an amazing inspiration to me! I have no clue how or where I would ever be without you! You are so fun, pretty, and an amazing teacher! I look forward to Fridays at 4:45 because I get to spend 45 minutes with you! It’s one of my highlights! Thank you so much for everything.”
Isabella H.: Student
“Thank you so much for all the help you’ve given me! I never would have learned to love my instrument like I do now without you. Your teaching has helped me in so many ways!”
Abby S.: Student
“Dear Mrs. Zara, You have been a GREAT teacher and helper. Me and you can work out any song together. You always teach me new things and help me through anything I need help with. Thank you so much for everything you have done for me!”
Mia H.: Student
“My daughter, Ashley, was a student of Zara’s for just over a year. She wished that it could have been longer. Ashley loved Zara from the first lesson, and benefited greatly from Zara’s instruction. As a sophomore, she is third chair in the highest orchestra at her high school, where the music program is well above average. Zara is thorough and precise; but very kind and fun to be around. Her enthusiasm for music is infectious. Ashley has always looked forward to her lessons. In addition to teaching Ashley how to improve her playing, Zara has given her excellent advice on what Ashley needs to do to ultimately reach her goal of playing the viola professionally.” Jodi C.
Jodi C.: Parent
“Zara has been my daughter Hannah’s viola instructor for over 4 years. Over those years we have consistently found her to be a highly gifted mentor and instructor. Zara is an extremely gifted musician in her own right who also has the rare ability to lead others. Hannah has had many other instructors through school and local youth symphonies, but we consider Zara’s tutelage to be the backbone of Hannah’s growth.”
Sally B.: Parent
“My daughter, Megan, began taking viola lessons from Zara nearly 7 years ago. She began as an 11 year old that was timid, shy, and lacking in confidence. Shortly after beginning lessons, her confidence began to increase and I noticed and marked progress in her skills just over the summer! Zara is a very kind teacher, has always been consistent and encouraging, and has blessed Megan through her own love of the viola. She always challenged Megan by choosing pieces for the recitals that would require practice and dedication to reach her goal. The regular recital dates gave Megan something to work for and increased her desire to be a better musician.” Tina U.
Tina U.: Parent
“Zara came to Mesa High upon high recommendation by my peers in music. She carried a large a well-respected studio of private students. I have also benefited for having these students in my orchestra. Not only has she been a valuable source to all her students, but also she has been a valuable source to me as a music educator. As a bassist, I have learned so much about the fine details of technique involved in violin and viola from her. Zara’s fantastic personality and rapport with students, not to mention her professional performance abilities and outstanding teaching skills make her an ideal asset to any musical community.”
Karalee Hagan: Director of Orchestras, Mesa High School
