Introduction

Joela Jones retired in October 2021 as principal keyboardist of The Cleveland Orchestra. An artist of exceptional versatility, she plays piano, organ, harpsichord, celesta, synthesizer and accordion. She has frequently appeared as piano soloist with the Orchestra, performing 50 different concertos ranging from Bach to Messiaen. Since the renovation of Severance Hall's Norton Memorial Organ in 2001, Ms. Jones has been featured in numerous works for organ and orchestra. She serves as principal accompanist for the Cleveland Orchestra Chorus and for visiting vocal soloists.

Education

  • BM and MM, Cleveland Institute of Music (with Victor Babin and Arthur Loesser)
  • Distinguished Alumni Award, Cleveland Institute of Music, 2006

Teaching Experience

Cleveland Institute of Music
1993–present
Advanced orchestral keyboard classes

Kent/Blossom Music
Chair, collaborative piano

New World Symphony in Miami
Visiting coach

Cleveland State University
Coordinator of Collaborative Piano