Bio
Rachael Claire: Multi-Instrumentalist, Kid’s Folk Musician, and Singer-Songwriter
Rachael Claire's musical journey is a delightful blend of classical training and folk traditions, deeply rooted in family and community. Raised in a vibrant folk band named Kinsfolk, Rachael spent her formative years touring around with her family in West Michigan and Chicago. From the age of 12 through her early 20s, she brought joy to countless audiences with her family's music, establishing a strong foundation in the folk genre. In 2007, she and her family released an album with Kinsfolk, marking a significant milestone in her musical career.
Rachael's dedication to music steered her towards higher education, where she earned not one but two classical music degrees in Viola Performance. She completed her bachelor's degree at Western Michigan University and continued to refine her craft with a master's degree from the Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University.
An accomplished singer-songwriter, Rachael released her own gospel-roots album titled "Fragrance" in 2012. Her songwriting prowess was further recognized when her original song "Invisible Change" won a juried songwriting award at the Grand Rapids Art Prize in 2016.
Currently, Rachael performs with Lavender Cloud, a whimsical band that specializes in interactive performances for kids, featuring puppets and celebrating the boundless imaginations of young audiences. Her dynamic and engaging presence with Lavender Cloud is a testament to her passion for fostering a love of music in children. Rachael is also actively writing and performing her own kids music, with the exciting intention of releasing it soon.
An accomplished performer, Rachael has shared the stage with Little Miss Ann across various notable venues in Chicago, including Gallagher Way. Beyond performing, she is a dedicated educator, nurturing the next generation of musicians through her work at The Old Town School of Folk Music, where she teaches Wiggleworms, fiddle, and mandolin.
Rachael Claire brings a unique and enriching experience to her audiences and students alike, blending her classical expertise with her folk roots and original compositions to create a joyful and imaginative musical world for all.
