About

Sahasra Chakkirala (b. 2005) (she/her) is a composer, classical guitarist, pipe organist, and educator based in Tucson, Arizona. Her music is shaped by a love for storytelling, curiosity, and exploration, drawing freely from a wide range of musical languages and traditions. Rich harmonic colors, lyrical melodies, energetic rhythms, experimental sounds, and a distinctly polystylistic approach come together to create works that are immersive, expressive, and deeply personal. Whether writing for solo instruments, chamber ensembles, orchestra, electronics, or interdisciplinary projects, Sahasra approaches each composition as an opportunity to transform ideas, experiences, and imagination into sound.

Sahasra is currently pursuing a Master of Music in Composition at Ohio University under the instruction of Dr. Robert McClure. Prior to her graduate studies, she completed her Bachelor of Music at the University of Arizona, where she studied Composition and Classical Guitar under the mentorship of Dr. Pamela Decker, Dr. Kay He, Dr.Vincet Calliano and Professor Tom Patterson.

Throughout her musical career, she has maintained an active presence as a performer, educator, conductor, and collaborator. Her experiences have included solo and ensemble performances, conducting multiple ensembles of varying skill levels, and working closely with young musicians through educational outreach. She has also arranged and directed repertoire for middle school choirs, serving as a guest conductor and helping foster musical growth and artistic confidence in emerging performers.

As a classical guitarist, Sahasra performed extensively throughout her undergraduate studies and participated in masterclasses with internationally acclaimed guitarist David Russell. She also premiered works by contemporary composers, including Olga Amelkina-Vera, and was an active member of the Tucson Guitar Society Orchestra under the direction of Dr.Jose Luis Puerta.

Alongside her work as a performer, Sahasra has developed an increasingly active career as a composer. Her music has been performed nationally and internationally by award-winning artists, ensembles, and educators, and she continues to collaborate with performers across the globe on new commissions, premieres, and creative projects. Her compositions span a wide range of instrumental settings and have been presented in concerts, festivals, and academic venues, reflecting a commitment to artistic exploration, collaboration, and the creation of meaningful musical experiences.

A passionate educator, Sahasra operates a private studio teaching guitar across a wide range of styles and to students of all ages. She provides private composition lessons for K–12 students, emphasizing both the history and craft of music, and offers specialized instruction in counterpoint, focusing on 16th-century techniques. As a mentor and tutor, she cultivates creativity, technical skill, and artistic expression in her students.

Looking ahead, Sahasra hopes to continue exploring new musical possibilities through collaboration, creativity, and meaningful artistic connections. She is always excited to meet new performers, ensembles, and fellow creators, embracing opportunities to learn, share ideas, and bring new projects to life. Above all, she looks forward to making music, building lasting friendships, and continuing the journey one collaboration at a time.