Listen to one of my live performances!

Education

My Music Education

Honing My Craft

I am a multi-woodwind performer and educator and I am available to teach piano, flute, clarinet, and saxophone private or group lessons. 

  • Bachelor’s of Music Education, 2009The University of Tennessee at Martin
  • Master’s of Music Performance, 2011University of Kentucky
  • Studied with Miles Osland, Branford Marsalis, Bobby Shew, Pat LaBarbera, and James Moody
My International Debut

Performing Music
Around the World

Since my international debut with Joe Lovano at the North Sea Jazz Festival, I have performed widely throughout the United States, Europe, and Asia including a notable performance at the Montreux Jazz Festival. Most recently, I have performed on the International Society for Improvised Music (ISIM) festival in Chateau d’Oex, Switzerland (July 2015). I am a current member of MTNA, KMTA, and BAMTA.

My Philosphy

I specialized in saxophone throughout my schooling and continue to hold my beloved King Zephyr tenor, Selmer Series III alto, and Yanagisawa curved soprano saxophones exalted and rarefied. But, for all that, I developed a voice on the piano, clarinets, and flute as well.

As a prominent educator, I have introduced music to hundreds of young beginners in central Kentucky, teaching primarily in the Fayette, Scott, and Franklin County Districts. My experience has consummated in an inclusive approach to teaching that aims to create self-sufficient readers who develop their own personal identity in sound.

I Believe

Music is for Everyone

Check Out My
Music Classes

Piano Lessons

Discover your piano potential with Cara’s piano lessons for kids and adults.

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Saxophone Lessons

Get private saxophone lessons with Cara Thomas in a welcoming environment.

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Clarinet Lessons

Whether you are just starting out or have experience, learn how to play the clarinet with Cara!

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Flute Lessons

Improve your flute skills with personalized lessons from Cara Thomas. 

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You have taught me everything I know about music. What I like most about you is how you are always wanting to help us. I appreciate you because I would be lost in the world of music without you. One of the most important things I have learned from you is music is everywhere. I want you to know that I am very thankful to have had you as my teacher.

Amelia R.

Our Music Partner

I proudly teach for the Central Music Academy, an arts enrichment program that provides quality musical training at no cost to financially disadvantaged children. CMA seeks to use the power of music and musical instruction to improve the lives of these at-risk youth. The Central Music Academy has provided free musical learning opportunities for more than 1,000 financially disadvantaged kids since 2004.