Voice Student of the Month: Zaara Shareef

This September we are delighted to feature Zaara Shareef as our Student of the Month! Zaara has been taking voice lessons at our Sunnyvale location for four years, since 2022, with Teacher Gaby.

She sang “Skyfall” at a recent recital, and several parents went out of their way afterward to tell her family how much they had enjoyed it. Ask Zaara what she likes most about singing and she will tell you it is discovering new ways to improve her voice, which is a fairly serious answer from an eleven-year-old.

Read more about Zaara’s experience at CCM below!

Student of the Month Questionnaire – Zaara Shareef

What is your name?
Zaara Shareef.

How old are you?
I am 11 years old.

Who is your teacher?
Ms. Gaby.

How long have you been taking voice lessons?
Four years, since 2022.

What advice would you give to a voice student just starting out at CCM?
To always arrive to your lesson on time and always practice after your lessons!

What piece are you looking forward to learning someday?
Not a particular piece, but I want to try different varieties of songs.

What is your favorite thing about voice lessons and singing?
Discovering new ways to improve my vocal skills.

What is your favorite food?
Burritos.

Do you have a pet?
Yes, I have two cats.

Do you play any sports or do any other activities outside of music lessons?
Yes, I play the piano and I enjoy playing volleyball.

What do you want to be when you grow up?
I want to be either a lawyer, a governor, or the U.S. President.

What is your most memorable experience at CCM?
I love the recitals. I especially love how all the parents clap for me at the end. It makes me feel I did an awesome job, which I always do.

Parent Spotlight – Nuzhath Jahan

Regarding voice instruction, what are you most proud of your child accomplishing?
I am incredibly proud of how Zaara’s voice skills have grown. Her recent recital performance of “Skyfall” was wonderful, and it was touching when several parents shared their appreciation for her singing afterward.

What advice would you give a new parent starting in the program?
Encourage your child to practice regularly, even for a few minutes a day. With consistent practice and encouragement, they’ll build confidence and see improvement over time.

Why did you decide to give your child a musical upbringing?
I’ve always loved music, but I never got the chance to learn it myself. So I wanted my kids to have that opportunity — to not only enjoy music, but learn it, grow through it, and hopefully bring joy to others through their music.

Congratulations, Zaara!

Book a free trial lesson at The California Conservatory of Music today!