Amani Zouehid is a cellist currently based in Cincinnati, Ohio. Born and raised in Venezuela, she grew up immersed in a rich blend of Arabic-Venezuelan culture. Amani began her musical journey at the age of seven through El Sistema, Venezuela’s renowned national music program, which provided her cost-free access to music education and the opportunity to build meaningful relationships within a diverse community.
In 2018, she moved to the United States to pursue a Bachelor of Music in Violoncello Performance at the University of Southern Mississippi. During her time there, she performed with regional orchestras across Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida, and was actively involved in chamber music. In 2023, she won the William T. Gower Concerto Competition, performing Dvořák’s Cello Concerto as a soloist with the USM Symphony Orchestra. She has also participated in prestigious summer festivals including the National Repertory Orchestra, Green Mountain Chamber Music Festival, and Eastern Music Festival.
Amani recently completed her Master’s degree in Music Performance at the Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, where she served as a Graduate Assistant under the mentorship of Icelandic cellist Sæunn Thorsteinsdóttir. She also completed the two-year Inclusion Fellowship with the Charleston Symphony Orchestra, performing orchestral masterworks, chamber music, and participating in professional development workshops and masterclasses with guest conductors.
For Inquires: Amanizouehid@gmail.com
Biography
As a teacher, I find immense joy in guiding students of all ages and skill levels, helping them not only develop technical proficiency, but also find their unique voice on the instrument. Whether I’m introducing someone to the joys of a new instrument or nurturing the next generation of musicians, I believe in the power of music to inspire, connect, and elevate.
Teaching Graduate Assistant at CCM
I’m fortunate to serve as a graduate assistant at CCM Prep, where I have the privilege of teaching talented students from the renowned Starling Program. I work closely with these dedicated musicians, guiding them to refine their technique and creative process as well as explore new ways of expressing themselves through the cello.
I also lead the graduate-level cello studio in the absence of the faculty instructor, guiding advanced students through their repertoire, technique, and performance preparation. It’s incredibly rewarding to nurture the next generation of cellists and witness their growth both as musicians and individuals. My teaching philosophy is rooted in encouraging creative exploration and innovative thinking, tailoring my approach to meet each student’s unique needs and helping them express their musical ideas in the most authentic and personal way.
Teaching