Singer, songwriter, and self-proclaimed optimist Claire Kelly has spent her career using music to connect, inspire, and brighten the spaces around her. A Nashville-based artist, Claire has earned recognition through major songwriting competitions, television and film placements, international touring, and performances alongside artists including Colbie Caillat, Ashley McBryde, and 49 Winchester.

As a songwriter, Claire has been a finalist in the Kerrville New Folk Festival and International Songwriting Competition, earned accolades from NSAI, Bluebird Cafe Golden Pick, and Songwriter Serenade, and has had her music featured on ABC Network, Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hallmark TV, and Hulu. She has also shared the stage with renowned Nashville songwriters including Shane McAnally, Josh Osbourne, and Tony Arata.

Claire brings that real-world experience into her work as an educator. She teaches songwriting workshops at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and teaches with Artist Pathway, where she works with emerging artists to develop their songwriting, strengthen their craft, and—most importantly—discover their own voice. Her approach is centered on helping students tell their stories honestly, embrace what makes their perspective unique, and build the confidence to express themselves through song.

Whether performing on stage, writing in a room with other artists, or working one-on-one with a developing songwriter, Claire believes music has the power to create connection and remind us that our stories are worth telling.