Corissa Knecht received her bachelor’s degree in viola performance from the University of Arizona Fred Fox School of Music where she studied with Dr. Molly Gebrian. As a teacher, Corissa has experience working with many different age groups and playing levels. She is trained in Suzuki and Kaleidoscopes methods. These trainings helped her build a holistic and scaffolded approach to teaching young beginners in a way that follows the developmental milestones of each student. Corissa has experience teaching private lessons, small groups, and classes of 50 students. She is focused on adapting her curriculum to fit the interests and needs of her students. Her work with the American Viola Society Underrepresented Composers Database, as well as her passion for working with students in underserved communities, has led her to look for ways to broaden the reach of classical music in a way that respects and represents multiple cultures and traditions.

While in Arizona, she was a part of the Arizona Symphony Orchestra as well as a member of the Avian Trio. Before moving to Arizona, Corissa performed with multiple ensembles at the University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire as well as playing in the viola sections of the Chippewa Valley Symphony Orchestra and the Eau Claire Chamber Orchestra. While in Wisconsin she served as the violist of the Bruch Trio, which commissioned a work that was premiered in a masterclass for renowned violist Nadia Sirota. Corissa has attended the National Music Festival, Sewanee Summer Music Festival, and Wintergreen Summer Music Academy where she has studied with many prominent musicians. 

She currently teaches at the Center for Performance, Arts and Learning and maintains a private studio in-person in the Metro Detroit area and online.