Dr. Carla Salas-Ruiz

As a performer, I value musicianship that is curious, flexible, and connected to the people in the room. My work at the piano has shaped the way I listen, collaborate, and communicate through sound.

I perform as both soloist and collaborative pianist, with an interest in repertoire, interpretation, and musical exchange. Across performance settings, I bring the same commitment that guides my teaching: to keep learning, to stay responsive, and to make music with clarity, purpose, and care.

As an educator, I value self-awareness, reflection, and responsiveness within the learning process. I recognize that each person brings different experiences, strengths, and needs to their musical development, and I strive to meet students where they are while supporting their individual growth.

In my teaching, I aim to create an environment grounded in curiosity, creativity, and mutual respect. I am interested in approaches to learning that encourage students to think independently, engage meaningfully with music, and develop skills that support both artistic and personal growth.

As a researcher, I value curiosity, reflection, and collaboration within the process of inquiry. My research grows out of my work as a teacher and performer, with interests in motivation, learning, healthy musicianship, and the ways people engage with music over time.

I believe research does not need to feel intimidating. It can be engaging, creative, rigorous, and connected to the communities we serve. Through writing, presentation, and collaboration, I aim to contribute to conversations within music education and piano pedagogy while helping research remain accessible and relevant to teachers, students, and musicians. I see scholarship as an extension of teaching: a process of inquiry, exchange, and continued growth as an educator and musician.