SOPHIA PATELLA
Collaborative Accompanist and Freelance Musician, Cuyamaca College’s Performing Arts Department
Sophia graduated with a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance from Boston University, where she studied under esteemed professors including Gilda Goldstein, Victor Cayres, Bryan Verhoye, and James Sepulvado. Since August 2021, she has served as a collaborative accompanist at Cuyamaca College, supporting Performance Studies students and the Cuyamaca Choir. Alongside her role at the college, Sophia has been a freelance musician and music teacher in San Diego since September 2015, demonstrating her versatility across a range of genres from musical theatre and jazz to classical and pop.
Sophia’s professional journey also includes significant teaching experience, having been a private piano and woodwind coach for elementary, middle, and high school students. Her commitment to fostering musical talent extends to her participation in various local music events and freelance opportunities, enriching the cultural landscape of the community. Additionally, from 2017 to 2019, she was a camp counselor and youth educator at the San Diego Summer Music Institute, where she led masterclasses in musical improvisation and assisted in youth piano instruction.

