Wisconsin native Kamilah Lay is delighted to join The Alli Mae Carnes Studio and share her dedication to voice, violin, and fiddle technique. At three years of age, Kamilah expressed a desire to play the violin after being mesmerized by a PBS special featuring Itzhak Perlman. Her ever-supportive parents sought out the Parkside Suzuki School founders to assist her in embarking on her violin studies soon thereafter. She continued studying Suzuki method violin for fifteen years, during which time she received accolades from the Wisconsin Federation of Music Clubs for her solo performances as well as the Wisconsin State Music Association, where she was also selected for the WSMA Honors Orchestra. Additionally, Kamilah participated in the nationally recognized Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra. 

When she was seven, she received a scholarship from the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music to begin her voice studies. Thus began a lifelong pursuit of healthy vocal technique. 

Kamilah also began performing professionally in musical theater at the age of seven. Select regional credits include:  Garden Theatre, San Luis Obispo Rep, Pittsburgh Musical Theater, Theatre Raleigh, The Fireside Theatre, First Stage, Carowinds, Cedar Point, Ravinia Festival Pavilion, Marriott Theatre, and Drury Lane Theatre. 

At Illinois Wesleyan University, Kamilah had the distinct privilege of receiving the Jennings Scholarship for four years, which allowed her to continue her violin studies at the collegiate level in concert with her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Music Theater. Her voice training at IWU was based heavily on classical technique, guided by her teacher, Saundra DeAthos-Meers, currently Director of Opera at the College of Charleston. Despite her classical roots, Kamilah has developed the ability throughout her career to sing and teach many genres including Musical Theatre, Pop, Country, and Rock.

Since 2018, Kamilah has had the incredible opportunity to combine her passion for violin and her love of theater through performing in Actor/Musician shows. These include Bluegrass Jamboree; Nashville Hits; The Jessamine Duo; Natasha, Pierre, and The Great Comet of 1812 (Ensemble, u/s Sonya); Once (Reza); and the World Premiere of Moonshine and Mistletoe (Dovey).

As a fiddle teacher, Kamilah aspires to continue to inspire younger generations of violinists, while leading them to appreciate the fact that their instrumental studies can pave the way to boundless opportunities! As a voice instructor, she hopes to encourage young singers to find their unique voice and embark on sharing their pursuit of bringing one’s fullest potential to fruition. She’s excited to share in working with her students’ growing experiences while expanding their knowledge and repertoire in affirming their commitment to music.