SARAH CHAKSAD

Sarah Chaksad’s fascination with music began earlier than most. Her mother taught her both at home and school and by 11 years old Sarah was studying piano and discovered the saxophone. That saxophone in particular, along with a budding interest in composition and performing in large ensembles, continued to develop under the tutelage of Matthias Baumann (saxophonist/director of the jazz ensemble) at the Cantonal School in her hometown in Wohlen, CH culminating in a series of compositions premiered by the school choir in fulfillment of her graduation requirements (Abitur). Sarah’s final act pre-university was completion of the college-prep coursework taught by Christian Baader and Samuel Zingg at Bern University of Education. At Bern University (2005-2008) Sarah completed the course in K-6 instruction and a bachelor’s degree at Jazzschule Bern. Her songbook and accompanying recording entitled “songs for kids” was awarded honors for the 2008 Bachelor thesis of the year. read more...