In Harmony

At CHCA, pianists and sisters Maria and Manuela Bernal-Viana have grown their passions and discovered a world of opportunities.

When sisters Maria and Manuela Bernal-Viana take the stage, the audience grows quiet. In an almost symphonic way, they pull out the piano bench, take their seats side by side, and hover their fingers over the keys, anticipation building in the crowd. As the first note hits, their movements mimic the cadence of the piece and rapturous music fills the auditorium.  

To know their ages—Maria a junior and Manuela a sophomore at CHCA—is to appreciate their exceptional talent all the more. From wins at renowned piano competitions around the world (including BMTG, Carmel Klavier, and Pianissimo) to performances closer to home, the sought-after musical duo, while worthy of the world’s biggest spotlight today, began as most do: with a teacher, a piano, and a passion for making melodies. 

“We started playing piano when we were four and have loved it ever since,” says Manuela. 

Born to a family of musicians and singers, the two witnessed at an early age the power of music to move and engage. Since then, they’ve cultivated a God-given talent for piano and vocal performance, garnering the attention of international magnates as they share their talents on stages across North America, from Carnegie Hall to their local church.  

“When I’m playing, I feel a thrill,” says Maria. “Our teacher in Colombia finds new pieces for us to play that not a lot of people know. It’s exciting to learn them and introduce something new to everyone who hears us play.” 

So when the Bernal-Viana family made the move from Colombia to Cincinnati, they knew they needed a place where Maria and Manuela could continue developing their skills and growing their talent. In CHCA, they found that and more.  

“There are so many options for what you can do here,” Manuela says. “I have always played classical music, but here I’ve been part of chapel worship and learned how to play cello and drums. Being in an environment where everyone has a special gift means we get to enjoy their talent but also learn from them.” 

Maria echoes her sister’s sentiment. “Playing a duet is very different because we only have to pay attention to ourselves. But when I perform here as part of the orchestra, Electric Jazz Orchestra, choir, or Pep Band, I love how all the instruments come together to make one piece.”

CHCA’s Arts program has come alongside Maria and Manuela’s innate talent, strengthening what they already know while providing opportunities to uncover interests they didn’t realize they had. The same is true of the school’s academics.  

“As a student, I’ve had a lot of opportunities to take courses I never imagined I’d take, like psychology and anatomy,” says Maria. “Whatever interests you, it’s here.” 

“There’s a place for everyone,” Manuela adds.  

While piano will remain the sisters’ greatest passion, the holistic education they’re receiving at CHCA is setting a foundation of curiosity and confidence.  

“Make the most of it,” Maria says when asked what advice she would give to a rising CHCA freshman. “Get involved in everything you can.” 

Manuela’s advice carries a similar tune. “Try new things and be willing to get out of your comfort zone. Here you’ll find a lot of things you didn’t know you were good at. Find what makes you passionate.”