Mira Francesca Vaughn

Mira Francesca Vaughn is a violist, chamber musician, and educator who recently graduated from the Tianjin Juilliard School with a Master of Music degree in Chamber Music Studies. She studied viola with Hanna Lee and Honggang Li of the Shanghai Quartet and was awarded a fellowship to attend the program. She earned her Bachelor of Music degree from the Cleveland Institute of Music, studying with Jeffrey Irvine and Lynne Ramsey.

Having pursued advanced musical studies in both the United States and China, Mira brings a unique international perspective to her work as a performer and teacher. Praised for her bold tone and fearless musicality, she enjoys performing repertoire ranging from Bach to contemporary works. During her time in China, she collaborated extensively with musicians from around the world, performing chamber music throughout the region. Highlights include a quartet recital with Juilliard faculty member Laurie Smukler, performances at the United States Embassy in Beijing, and appearances as principal viola of the Tianjin Juilliard Orchestra. Mira has attended prestigious music festivals including Boston University Tanglewood Institute, Interlochen, Bowdoin, Green Mountain, and Chautauqua.

A dedicated educator, Mira has taught viola for the Cleveland School of the Arts, assisted with chamber music coaching in the Cleveland Institute of Music Preparatory Division, volunteered with the Tianjin Juilliard Pre-College program, and maintains a private studio of violin and viola students. A native of Howard County, Maryland, she is passionate about helping young musicians develop strong fundamentals, confidence, and a lifelong love of music.

Mira performs on a d’amore style viola made in 2016 by Hiroshi Iizuka.