Teacher Profile: Sophie Clarke

About Sophie Clarke

Soprano Sophie Clarke is an active performer and music educator based in the DC area. She teaches private Voice and Piano Lessons to students of all ages and through a wide variety of musical genres. As comfortable in the classroom as on the stage, Sophie is an experienced music educator who has taught music privately, as well as in K-12 schools. She started studying Voice and Piano at the age of 15 in her hometown of Pleasanton, CA and has loved being involved with music ever since.

She first attended UC Berkeley to earn her Bachelor’s degree in Music Performance, then made a move to the East Coast to attend the Peabody Conservatory of Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. There, she completed her Master's degree in Vocal Performance before relocating to the DMV area in 2022.

As an active performer, Sophie recently starred as Leontine in a production of "The Anonymous Lover" with Victorian Lyric Opera Company. A regular choral singer, Sophie has sung in opera choruses with professional companies, including Annapolis Opera, Livermore Opera, Bel Cantanti Opera, and Beth Morrison Projects. She is also on the substitute roster for many prestigious organizations, including the Washington National Cathedral, Washington National Opera, and Washington Concert Opera. Sophie was a featured soloist in the 2025-2026 recital seasons of The Cecilia Collective and Little City Opera.

Teaching has been a big part of Sophie musical career throughout her education, and after. As an active Voice and Piano teacher, she loves having the opportunity to see her students grow over time and refine their skill. No matter the area of study, she values the connection she makes with her students through learning and utilizes a variety of teaching methods.

For her younger Voice students she incorporates "A Young Singer's Journey" as one of her go-tos, but for more advanced singers she includes the Marchesi vocal books and a more concentrated focus on Classical repertoire and techniques. For Piano students, the Faber Piano Adventures method is a favorite for beginner through intermediate students. She enjoys incorporating Classical technique exercises for more advanced students on this instrument as well, like Czerny and Hanon, in addition to formal Piano Literature. Though strong foundations in technique and theory are important to Sophie, she also believes that a balance of fun and challenge are needed for students to have the very best experience. This includes adding Pop songs, as well as challenging studies and Art Songs, to her students' studies! All individuals have a unique journey and relationship with Music, and Sophie hopes to contribute to that experience in a positive and inspiring way for her students.

When she is not singing, teaching, or enjoying time outdoors, Sophie loves to indulge in other creative outlets such as crocheting, cooking, and drawing.