Kiana Fatemifar is a flutist (flute/piccolo/alto flute) and educator based in Fort Worth, Texas. She is a Doctor of Musical Arts candidate in Flute Performance at Texas Christian University, with a cognate in Music Theory, studying with Dr. Shauna Thompson. At TCU, she serves as Graduate Assistant of the Flute Studio, teaching flute and chamber music, and works in early childhood music and elementary music instruction.

Kiana earned her Master of Music in Flute Performance from the University of Massachusetts Amherst (GPA 4.00), where she also completed a Graduate Certificate in Music History Pedagogy and served as a teaching assistant for Music Appreciation. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Flute Performance from the University of Tehran (GPA 4.00), as well as a Music Diploma in Flute Performance from the National Music Conservatory. She is also Orff Schulwerk Level I Certified (Southern Methodist University).

Her performance experience includes work with TCU Symphony Orchestra, New Texas Sinfonia, and NFA Professional Flute Choir, as well as principal positions with ensembles including the UMass Amherst Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble, and orchestras in Tehran. She has presented workshops and lectures on flute performance and pedagogy, including sessions on warm-up strategies, performance preparation, and analysis-to-performance topics.

Kiana has participated in masterclasses with leading artists including Marina Piccinini, Brandon Patrick George, and others, and her recognitions include winning the NFA 2024 Masterclass Competition and the NFA Professional Flute Choir Competition, along with prizes in national festivals and competitions

I began studying music at the age of seven, and it was during my earliest lessons that I first imagined a life as both a musician and a teacher. The encouragement, patience, and passion of my teachers played a transformative role in shaping my musical identity. Their influence taught me that teaching is not an easy task—it is one of the most meaningful responsibilities an educator can hold, as it directly shapes the artistic, emotional, and personal development of future generations.

At the core of my teaching philosophy is the belief that music education should be holistic, inclusive, and student-centered. I strive to create a learning environment where students feel supported, motivated, and confident in their abilities, while also being challenged to grow technically and musically. I recognize that each student learns differently, and I tailor my teaching methods to meet individual needs, learning styles, and goals.

As a flutist and pedagogue, I emphasize strong technical foundations, including healthy tone production, efficient technique, and mindful practice habits, as essential tools for artistic freedom. I guide students in developing structured and effective practice routines, helping them bridge the gap between the practice room and performance settings such as recitals, competitions, and auditions.

My pedagogical approach is informed by my training in Orff Schulwerk, music theory/history, and performance practice, allowing me to integrate movement, creativity, analysis, and imagination into my teaching. Especially with younger students, I value experiential learning—using rhythm, movement, storytelling, and ensemble playing to build musicianship in a natural and engaging way. With advanced students, I incorporate score study, musical analysis, and performance psychology to deepen interpretation and expressive intent.

Beyond technical and musical development, I view teaching as a process of mentorship. I aim to help students build confidence, discipline, curiosity, and resilience, skills that extend far beyond music. Whether teaching in a university setting, private studio, or early childhood classroom, my goal is to inspire students to develop a lifelong connection to music while becoming thoughtful, expressive, and self-aware individuals.