Biography

“Self-possessed and prepossessing, Parnas is musically poised beyond her 20 years. Her bow-arm is perfection itself, and with it she sculpts phrases of lapidary detail. She already understands that, on a stringed instrument, there is as much beauty to be found between the notes as during them. The clarity of articulation in passagework and the skill with which she shaped lyrical lines were startling. This was artistry that cannot be taught; the musician simply owns it.” - The Washington Post

Cicely Parnas is a Berlin-based American musician who has taken the world by storm with her incredible talent as a cellist, arranger, and composer. Born in 1993, Cicely showed a passion for music from an early age and quickly became known as a prodigious talent in the classical music world.

At just eleven years old, Cicely made her orchestral debut, setting the stage for a career that would see her perform in some of the world's most prestigious venues. Her artistry and technical mastery were recognized in 2012 when she won the Young Concert Artists International Auditions, a major competition that has launched the careers of many great musicians.

Some of the most notable performances of Cicely's career have taken place in some of the world's most iconic concert halls, including the Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall. She has soloed with the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, The New York String Orchestra Seminar, Charleston Symphony, and many more. Her lifelong collaboration with her sister and violinist, Madalyn Parnas-Möller, has brought the duo to venues in Shanghai, Tel Aviv, Washington, DC, New York, Los Angeles, Berlin, and many other cities.

One of Cicely's greatest strengths as a musician is her ability to arrange and compose music. She has arranged an array of pieces for various ensembles, including a collection of nine arias for cello and piano in collaboration with Brooklyn Duo. Her arrangements have been praised for their creativity and ingenuity, and have earned her a devoted following among fans of classical music.

Despite her love of classical music, Cicely is not content to limit herself to one genre. She has a wide range of musical interests, and has explored many different styles over the course of her career. She is a member of the cello rock band Break of Reality, where she brings a unique perspective to the group's music. She is also currently studying at the Berklee College of Music for Electronic Music Production and Music Business, where she is expanding her knowledge and exploring new avenues for her musical creativity.

Throughout her career, Cicely Parnas has been recognized as one of the most talented cellists of her generation. Her unique approach to music and dedication to her craft have earned her a devoted following and widespread critical acclaim. Whether performing in a concert hall or rocking out on stage with her bandmates, Cicely is a true musical visionary who is sure to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible in music.

In addition to her musical pursuits, Cicely Parnas is also known for her diverse range of hobbies. When she's not performing or composing, she can often be found engaging in a variety of activities including reading, writing, sewing, baking, rock climbing, and yoga.

Through her many interests, Cicely Parnas demonstrates a deep curiosity and a desire to explore new avenues of creativity and self-expression. She is a true Renaissance woman, with a wealth of talents and a passion for life that is contagious to all those around her.