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TEACHERS LEVELS
Our Music Teachers are organized in Level I, II, III, defined according to their experience, their teaching style, and the goals and expectations of their students.
Standard Teacher (Level I) - For personal enjoyment & enrichment
Senior Teacher (Level II) - For the more serious students - Exam Preparation
Master Teacher (Level III) - For the most serious students - Intensive / Competitive
Teacher Levels are not to be confused with the Students Level. A beginner student may start right away with a Level II or III Teacher if more rapid results are expected. A beginner student could also start with a Level I teacher and move to a Level II teacher at a later stage.
Standard Teachers (Level I) are ideal for students learning for personal enjoyment & enrichment and who do not want to be pushed too hard, or do not yet intend to prepare for exams and competitions
Senior & Master Teachers (Level II and III) are best suited for more serious students (including beginners) who are more results oriented and want to take exams (CM or ABRSM) and progress faster. They have more extensive teaching experience, hold Masters or Doctorate degrees, are experienced in preparing students for CM or ABRSM exams and will provide more intensive and longer music lessons.
All our students are encouraged to perform at our 3 annual recitals.
PIANO
Standard Piano Teachers (Level I)
Tahv graduated from the Berklee College of Music with specializations in Education and Contemporary Music Theory. He has two decades of music spanning education and performances including ensembles, accompanying, and pit orchestra of musical theater shows. Tahv’s teaching style spans all genres, ages, and interests, however, he has exceptional talent and experience working with students interested in jazz music, including improvisation.
Exactly like his specializations, Tahv dual-wields two core beliefs for education. The first creates self-fulfillment and ensures that music, above all, is fun. The other dives deeper and imbues the difference between good musicians and great ones. Combining both at his core teaching philosophy ensures the development of a student’s natural talent while building critical principles of music.
B.M. in Music Education and Theory from Berklee College of Music
Tahv
Young-Rang graduated from Yonsei University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Voice, and then attended the famed San Francisco Conservatory of Music where she received a Master’s Degree in Voice. Young-Rang has both performing and teaching experience in voice, piano, and group classes. She was chosen for the main role of Carmen in the San Francisco Opera Guild’s production of Carmen, and received first place in the Bay Area Opera League's competition. Additionally, she studied under Jane Randolph and worked with Kathy Cathcart and Williene Gunn. She was selected for coveted positions in masterclasses with Cynthia Hoffman and Elena Obraztsova. Young-Rang has frequently performed as a soloist and alongside various musical groups upon invitation in the Bay Area. As a vocal coach teaching students and groups in the Bay Area, she continues her work as the Choir Director at the Berkeley Korean United Methodist Church and the Music Director of the JOY Concert.
M.M. in Vocal Performance from San Francisco Conservatory of Music
B.M. in Vocal Performance from Yonsei University
Young-Rang
Mi has been teaching piano in Silicon Valley for over 30 years. She is experienced with instructing children and adults and specializes in teaching beginner piano foundations and performance. Her students have excelled in theory, performance preparation, and international exams.
She prides herself on the ability to motivate and inspire students while maintaining high standards and expectations for her students. Mi is a member of MTNA.
B.A. in Piano Performance from Chung-Ang University in Seoul, Korea
Mi
Wonduck is a member of MTAC. She has over 20 years teaching piano to children. She specializes in teaching beginner to intermediate students of all ages. She is experienced in CM exam preparation.
M.A. in Piano Pedagogy from University of Missouri
Wonduck
(Online only)
Senior Piano Teachers (Level II)
Effie is a graduate of the New England Conservatory of Music where she earned her Master’s degree in Music Composition with a concentration in Music-in-Education. Classically trained as a pianist and a composer with over 20 years of musical experience, she has been teaching piano and music theory to both children and adults at all levels since 2015, and she frequently collaborates with musicians and performing artists.
Effie is especially skilled at incorporating diverse approaches into every lesson - music theory, ear training, and music history. She works with students on improvisation and song arrangements in order to find joy in learning music. She values diversity and has a warm and creative teaching style.
M.M. in Music Composition and Music in Education from New England Conservatory of Music, Massachusetts
B.M. in Music Composition from Tianjin Conservatory of Music, China
Effie
Tram started learning piano at the age of 5 and graduated from McGill University with a Bachelor of Music and a Minor in Music Education. Tram began to teach piano in 2010 and knew how important it is for children to learn music. She encourages her students to learn and appreciate the beauty of music and believes that there is no limit for the children's abilities and imagination. Tram reinforces good techniques and a strong fundamental for her students from the very beginning. Many of her students completed Royal Conservatory of Music exams from beginner to advanced levels with Distinction. She also encourages her students to participate in recitals and competitions such as Quebec Music Competition. Tram has won in competitions (Le Muse in Italy, Bradshaw & Buono International Competition) and participated in several music festivals where she had master classes with world class musicians.
B.M. in Piano with a Minor in Music Education from McGill University, Canada
Tram
Sylvia is internationally experienced piano, violin, cello and music theory teacher. With 30+ years of experience, she has taught, led, and conducted numerous festivals and concerts. Her experience includes private and group lessons, K-12 music classrooms, and ensemble conducting. Her students have excelled in national competitions, college and orchestra auditions, and ABRSM exams with her goal being that students not only attain the highest possible score but more importantly grow their love for music and also prepares students for Certificate of Merit (CM) exams. She believes that creating opportunities for students to perform in ensembles and community performance outreach programs is important in enriching the child's growth and love for music.
M.M. in Violin Performance and Pedagogy from Texas Christian University
B.A. in Music in Violin and Piano Performance from Western Illinois University
FTCL - (Piano) Fellow of the Trinity College of London
Long Term Suzuki Teacher Training with Moshe Neumann and Barbara Barber
Sylvia
Rebecca's 15 years of teaching experience spans students of all ages and levels. She received her Master’s and Bachelors's degrees from Northern Arizona University where she spent 3 years as the president of the collegiate Music Teacher’s National Association chapter. Her teaching and learning styles are based on achieving well-rounded growth, comfort, and fostering a lifelong love for music, which has led her personal career into sustained opportunities as a recording artist, composer, collaborator and performer.
M.A. in Piano Performance from Northern Arizona University
B.A. in Piano Performance from Northern Arizona University
Rebecca
Theresa has more than 20 years of successful teaching experience spanning private lessons, musical theater, choir, and K-8 school classrooms. She is educated in multiple methods and approaches to teaching, which have allowed her to cater to every student’s learning style, age, and skill level. She is also experienced teaching students with learning disabilities. Her students continue to give outstanding performances and receive highest marks in international music exams. Theresa prepares students for Certificate of Merit (CM) exams.
In addition to teaching, she has performed publicly since age 12 as a soloist and with orchestras, choirs, and musicals and studied with some of the most distinguished teaching professors in the United States.
B.A. in Music Education from University of Massachusetts, Lowell
Graduate Continued Studies, Longy School of Music in Cambridge, Massachusetts
Theresa
Aaron began learning piano at age 4, later going on to win numerous world class competitions, as well as giving international performances throughout China, Europe, and the US.
As a teacher, he’s received numerous international awards and led his students to win several International competitions (Steinway Piano Competition, Shandong Piano Competition), and receive the highest scores in the National Music Examination (CMA), and Arts Grade Examination of China. Many of his students have also earned admission into prestigious college and university music programs.
Aaron has over 8 years of teaching experience with students all ages and skill levels using a warm yet demanding approach. He believes in the importance of accommodating individual learning styles, pace, and interests of his students.
M.M. in Piano Performance and Pedagogy from University of Hartford, Connecticut
B.M. in Piano Performance from College of Music of SDNU, China
Aaron
Chloe is a member of Music Teachers National Association and taught nationally for schools in Philadelphia, New Jersey, and Los Angeles. Chloe is a trained Suzuki and ABRSM teacher. Her instruction emphasizes on developing creativity, musicianship skills, technique, and artistry while catering to the uniqueness of each student.
Chloe has performed extensively as a soloist, chamber musician, collaborative pianist, and music director. She received her Master’s Degree in Piano Performance and Piano Pedagogy from Temple University, where she served as a graduate teaching assistant and was awarded Temple University Symphony Orchestra Soloist Award and Edwin B. Garrigues Scholarship Award. She’s performed with TU Symphony Orchestra as the winner of the 2019 Temple University Symphony Orchestra Soloist Competition.
M.M. in Piano Performance and Piano Pedagogy from Temple University
B.M. in Piano Performance from Temple University
Chloe
Andoni is a member of MTAC. He has over 10 years teaching piano to all ages and all levels in classical, jazz, and popular music. He specializes in developing a structured approach for each student to learn the foundations of musical performance. He is experienced in CM and ABRSM exam preparation.
M.M. from San Jose State University
Andoni
Theodora is a pianist and scholar who holds PhD Candidacy in Musicology at Cornell University and double bachelor’s degrees with high honors in Music and English from UC Berkeley. As an educator, Theodora has more than 7 years of experience teaching piano to beginner, advanced, and professional students in studio and university settings.
As a pianist, Theodora has performed repertoire spanning the concerti of Brahms through Prokofiev alongside renowned orchestras such as the Lublin Philharmonic and the Kostroma, Peninsula, and UC Berkeley Symphonies. She was awarded prizes such as the Liszt Piano Competition in LA, International Piano Competition in Sussex, and more.
As a teacher, Theodora loves to assist students in strengthening their technique, expanding their creativity, and thinking critically about the music they play (and its history) — and, most of all, discovering new music to love. Her students have excelled in recitals, exams, and competitions while still dedicated to having a fun learning and motivational environment at lessons.
PhD in Musicology from Cornell University
B.A. in Music (High Honors) from University of California, Berkeley
B.A. in English (High Honors) from University of California, Berkeley
Theodora
Yuri is a graduate of the San Francisco Conservatory of Music where she earned her Master’s degree in music and from Xinghai Conservatory of Music in Guangzhou, China where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in music. She has won numerous awards including the International Piano Competition of Macau and Concerto competition of Xinghai Conservatory of Music. Since beginning piano at the age of six, she has performed in numerous concerts as a soloist and collaborative artist.
Yuri has more than seven years of teaching experience for both private lessons and group classes at every level. She is a member of the Chinese Music Teachers Association of Northern California and specialized at helping students prepare for the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) Exams. Yuri enjoys sharing her patient and encouraging approach to teaching while maintaining strong standards for lessons while creating a lifelong love of music.
M.M. in Piano Performance from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music
B.A. in Piano Performance from Xinghai Conservatory of Music, China
Yuri
Ying holds a master’s degree in classical piano performance from the Aaron Copland School of Music at City University of New York Queens College. Additionally, she has a double major in Bachelor of Arts in Music Performance and Music Education.
She holds certifications as a Music Teacher and Performance Arts Teacher in Taiwan. Her musical journey encompasses a wide range of roles, including being a soloist, chamber musician, collaborative pianist, and music educator.
Renowned for her flexible and attentive teaching style, Ying understands the importance of adaptability to suit each student’s unique needs. Her persistence, patience, and ability to create a nurturing learning environment have earned her high praise from students and parents alike.
M.M. in Piano Performance from Aaron Copland School of Music at City University of New York Queens College
B.A. in Music Performance and Music Education from Soochow University, Taiwan
Ying
Christine has been an accompanist for various musical performances such as choirs, musical, vocalists, ensembles, and instrumental performers for over 30 years. Since 1993 she has been teaching piano and music theory.
During the past few years, Christine and her family stayed in Iraq to help Iraqi and Syrian refugees. She taught Music and Music History to middle and high school students at a private school in Erbil, Iraq.
B.M. in Musicology and Music Theory at Korea National University of Arts, South Korea
Christine
Alishan, a highly skilled musician with 15 years of experience, is dedicated to guiding students of all ages in achieving their musical aspirations. Rooted in a philosophy that aims to ignite each student's intrinsic life force, he encourages them to set and conquer challenging goals, fostering a deep sense of accomplishment. Committed to providing step-by-step guidance, Alishan equips students with the latest proven methods, recognizing the importance of a strong start for a lifelong musical journey.
During his university years, he played violin/viola in orchestras, sang in choirs, engaged in chamber music as a pianist and violinist/violist, and collaborated with singers and instrumentalists in numerous recitals. Simultaneously, he developed skills in conducting, arranging, and the fundamentals of every major instrument.
Recognizing the significance and challenges of a strong start in music education, Alishan was inspired by Shinichi Suzuki's "Nurtured By Love." Determined to instill a lifelong love for music in young learners, he devoted summers to accumulating Suzuki certifications, enhancing his teaching abilities.
Known for his dynamic and engaging style, Alishan listens attentively to each student, fostering an environment where they can grow and achieve beyond their perceived limits.
B.M. in Piano Performance from San Jose State University
B.M. in Music Education from Portland State University
Suzuki Certified Instructor for both Piano and Violin
Alishan
Alex is an accomplished pianist with over 15 years of teaching experience, specializing in exam preparation and tailored curriculum design. His teaching style ensures that each student receives personalized attention and guidance tailored to their individual needs and musical aspirations. Alex emphasizes creating a calm and productive learning atmosphere that unifies students' abilities with the requirements of the musical text and performance style. Students engage with level-appropriate repertoire and work towards well-defined, shared musical goals.
Alex completed his Bachelor's Degree at San Jose State University under Gwendolyn Mok and Namiq Sultanov and his Master's Degree at the University of Alberta under Jacques Despres. He has also been a young artist in Chamber Music Silicon Valley and a performer in the 2021 SF International Piano Festival. Beyond piano study, Alex is an avid reader of novels and studier of foreign languages, firmly believing in their power to enrich any musical interpretation.
M.M. in Piano Performance from University of Alberta
B.M. in Piano Performance from San Jose State University
Alex
Master Piano Teachers (Level III)
Dr. Leah (Yerim) studied piano performance in Seoul, where she earned her bachelor’s, Cum Laude, at Seoul National University. Her love towards music led her to study further in the United States, where she earned a Master’s degree in piano performance, a Performance Diploma as well as a Master of Music. An acclaimed and world class performer, Dr Leah also has over 10 years of experience teaching piano to students of all ages and levels. Leah also prepares students for Certificate of Merit (CM) exams.
D.M.A. in Collaborative Piano Performance from The University of Texas at Austin
M.M. in Piano Performance from Indiana University, Bloomington, IN
B.M. in Piano Performance from Seoul National University, South Korea
Dr. Leah (Yerim)
Dr. Lina is a highly experienced concert pianist and chamber musician who graduated with a Konzertexamen degree (equiv D.M.A.) from Hogeschool Zuyd in Maastricht, Netherlands, with the highest honors. She has won several competitions including the International Music Award Maastricht in the Netherlands and has performed at prestigious venues across Asia, Europe, and the USA.
With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Lina is a skilled music educator with a background in teaching piano. She has served as an adjunct faculty member at the Department of Piano at Hanyang University in Seoul, South Korea, and has also taught at several other music universities and music schools in Korea. As a music educator, she is passionate about sharing her knowledge and experience with her students to help them reach their full potential as musicians. She is patient, encouraging, and dedicated to helping each student succeed.
Konzertexamen (equiv. D.M.A) in Piano Performance from HvM Maastricht, Netherlands
Artist Diploma in Piano Performance from Hanns Eisler Berlin, Germany
M.M. in Chamber Music from HfM Detmold, Germany
M.M. in piano performance from HfM Detmold, Germany
B.M. in Piano Performance from Hanyang University, Korea
Dr. Lina
With over 25 years of experience, Julia has taught students of all ages and all levels. Her students have excelled in multiple exams including CM as well as competitions including U.S. Open Music Competition and MTAC Solo. Her mission is to help and encourage students to develop their musical abilities and to enrich their lives through enjoyment of classical piano music.
As a professionally trained pianist, Julia has performed in many concerts and chamber music as a soloist, a collaborative pianist, and an accompanist. She won the SJSU Concerto Competition, performed with the SJSU Symphony Orchestra, and was the 1 st place award recipient in the San Jose Music Study Club Competition.
M.A. in Piano Performance from San Jose State University
B.A. in Piano Performance from Ewha Womans University, South Korea
B.A in English Education, Teaching Credential for Secondary Schools from Ewha Womans University, South Korea
Julia
Claire is a passionate pianist and dedicated educator. Since 2009, she has been teaching piano to students of all ages and levels in both the United States and Taiwan, fostering a celebration of cultural diversity within her studio. Many of her students have achieved remarkable success, earning opportunities to perform at prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center. As a committed piano teacher, her aim is to inspire students to cultivate a lifelong and fulfilling relationship with music.
Claire believes that the learning process extends beyond mastering music fundamentals; it involves developing the ability to perceive music as a "language", expressing nuanced human emotions uniquely achievable through the piano, and nurturing an aesthetic sensitivity. Her musical journey began at the age of four under the guidance of her mother. After completing her studies at National Taiwan Normal University, Claire pursued advanced training in the United States. She studied with Prof. Alexander Shtarkman at the Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University and earned a Doctoral degree from the University of Maryland under the mentorship of Prof. Larissa Dedova.
In addition to her teaching, Claire was an active performer, having given solo recitals and performances in the United States, Taiwan, China, Japan, and Spain. She is also involved in outreach concerts, bringing music to local communities and schools.
D.M.A. in Piano Performance from the University of Maryland
Graduate Performance Diploma in Piano Performance from the Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University
M.M. in Piano Performance from the Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University
B.F.A. in Piano Performance from National Taiwan Normal University
Dr. Claire
Sici is the co-founder of Opus 1 Music Studio. She teaches young beginners and Music For Young Children Group Class. She is experienced in ABRSM exam preparation for all levels.
M.A. in Music from San Jose State University
Sici - Co-founder
Marco teaches all ages and all levels. He began his musical studies at the age of six and moved to Portugal with his family at the age of twelve. There he studied in several conservatories and received two bachelors of Music - Piano Performance and Music Theory. He was Valedictorian of the school for both degrees and was rewarded twice with prize “Ensino Magazine” for his high grades.
Before coming to the United States Marco was teaching piano at Conservatorio Regional de Castelo Branco, Conservatorio Regional da Covilha and also teaching musical analysis at Castelo Branco University (ESART).
Marco received his Master in Piano Performance from Arizona State University in the class of the great pianist and Regent Professor of Piano Dr. Caio Pagano.
He has over 10 years of teaching experience and prepares students for ABRSM exam.
M.A. in Piano Performance from Arizona State University
B.A. in Music Theory
Marco
With over 20 years of teaching and performing, Eliza has guided students of all ages and levels to a consistent 95% success rate in ABRSM exams. Her music journey began at age 6, inspired daily by her elder sister's piano practice. She graduated with top honors in piano from National Tsing Hua University in 2004.
After graduation, she served as a credentialed music teacher in a public school and imparted her knowledge to over 300 students annually. In 2011, she completed her double degree with a Postgraduate Diploma in Piano Performance and a Master's Degree in Music with a scholarship from Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, United Kingdom.
Eliza's teaching style focuses on discovering talent, preparing for exams and recitals, or simply enjoying the music. She specializes in preparing students for the ABRSM exam in piano, theory, and ear training. She ensures each student receives personalized attention and progresses at their own pace. Her music education background and related children's psychology training help her to be unique and better than just a piano teacher.
M.M in Piano Performance from Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, United Kingdom
Postgraduate Diploma in Piano Performance, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, United Kingdom
B.M.E in Music Education from National Tsing Hua University, Taiwan
Eliza
Doris is the owner and co-founder of Opus 1 Music Studio. She teaches students at all ages and all levels. She is experienced in exam preparation in both CM and ABRSM exams. Her students won local competitions and perform at Carnegie Hall.
B.A. in Music from University of British Columbia
Doris - Founder
A pupil of Daniela Mineva and 2005 Van Cliburn gold medalist, Alexander Kobrin, Ryan has extensive performing experience. He has been featured as a soloist with the Eureka Symphony, Humboldt Symphony and the North State Symphony. He has participated as a performer in the Round Top Music Festival in Texas and the Atlantic Music Festival in Maine. Ryan has also done much collaborative work and performed in many ensembles from duos to orchestras, performing works from J.S. Bach and W.A. Mozart to John Cage and Witold Lutosławski. On top of classical music, Ryan has also created and performed many well received video game music themed piano concerts, which included music, visuals and interactive elements. Ryan is also a composer and has written and premiered his own works for piano.
Ryan has experience teaching piano students from ages 4 to 80 and everything in between. Lessons incorporate piano technique, music theory, and a heavy focus on musicality, tone production, and creativity at the piano.
M.M. in Piano Performance from the Eastman School of Music
B.A. in Music & Piano Performance from Cal Poly Humboldt
Ryan
Carrie, an accomplished pianist with over 20 years of professional experience, holds degrees from the New England Conservatory of Music and the Manhattan School of Music. She has garnered numerous awards in competitions including Metropolitan International Piano Competition in New York and has performed at prestigious venues such as the National Center for the Performing Arts in Beijing, Shanghai Concert Hall, Jordan Hall in Boston, and DiMenna Center in New York.
With a diverse teaching background spanning all ages, from beginners to professional music school auditions, Carrie excels in preparing students for the challenges of music education and performance. She is known for her passion, patience, and innovative teaching methods, which cater to the individual needs of her students, making learning easier and more enjoyable. Carrie also fosters independent thinking, ignites musical imagination, and cultivates a deep understanding and love for music in her students.
M.M. in Piano Performance from Manhattan School of Music
B.M. in Piano Performance from New England Conservatory of Music
Carrie (Sub Teacher)
STRING INSTRUMENTS
Violin & VIOLA*
Standard Violin Teachers (Level I)
Kashmira began studying the violin at age four and was a member of the Hawaii Youth Symphony while growing up. She obtained her B.M. in Violin Performance from the University of Colorado–Boulder under Charles Wetherbee. At CU, Kashmira participated in a Music and Performing Arts summer program in Florence, Italy where she studied with violinist Alberto Bologni, renowned performer, teacher and co-founder of the Florentia Consort Associazione Culturale. She went on to study with Katherine McLin at Arizona State University, obtaining an M.M in Violin Performance and Pedagogy.
Kashmira is experienced in teaching violin to students of all ages and skill levels, from beginner to advanced. She approaches each lesson as a collaboration between teacher and student that is tailored to the student’s ability, learning style, and interests. Kashmira strives to incorporate music theory, music history, and ear training into playing the instrument. She is patient, encouraging, and happy to share her knowledge and love of music with others.
M.M. in Violin Performance and Pedagogy from Arizona State University
B.M. in Violin Performance from The University of Colorado, Boulder
Kashmira
Senior Violin Teachers (Level II)
Jingwen received both her Master of Music degree in Violin Performance and Doctorate of Musical Arts at the Moores School of Music at the University of Houston. She has studied violin from the age of 5, and started her professional musical training at the age of 12. Jingwen has performed in multiple master classes and worked with internationally renowned violinist. In addition to pursuing her musical career as a soloist, she actively plays as a section violinist in orchestra and chamber music. She is also a former member of the Symphony of Southeast Texas, and has performed with numerous university orchestras. Jingwen has extensive experience teaching Violin and Viola students of all ages and levels and hopes to inspire her students to love music and develop their skills and love for music. Her goal is to help her students to gain valuable musical experiences and to explore their own enthusiasm for music.
D.M.A. in Violin Performance from University of Houston
M.M. in Violin Performance from University of Houston
B.M. in Violin Performance from Xinghai Conservatory of Music, China
Dr. Jingwen*
See Jingwen’s performance
Luis began his musical training at the Victoriano Lopez School of Music in San Pedro Sula, Honduras where he later joined the faculty as a violin professor. In addition to more than ten years of teaching experience, Luis has earned awards and honors including First Prize in the USM Chamber Music Competition, winner in the Northern Lights Music Festival concerto competition, concertmaster of the San Pedro Sula Chamber Orchestra, and assistant concert master of the Gulf Coast Symphony. He has earned both his Master’s Degree in violin performance (University of Cincinnati) and Bachelor’s Degree in violin performance (The University of Southern Mississippi).
M.M. in Violin Performance from University of Cincinnati
B.A. in Violin Performance from University of Southern Mississippi
Luis
See Luis’s Performance
Dr. Pei-Shan holds a Doctor of Musical Arts in Violin Performance from University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, a Master of Music degree in Violin Performance from Eastman School of Music, and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from National Taiwan Normal University. As an accomplished educator, “Passion” and “Patience" not only sound just like her name (Pei-Shan) but are also the core beliefs in her teaching philosophy. She is a trained Suzuki teacher and has taught for many years for a wide range of students from beginners to college level. She helps them engage in music, find their love and talents in music, and prepare for performances, competitions, and auditions.
D.M.A. in Violin Performance from University of Illinois
M.M. in Violin Performance and Literature from Eastman School of Music
B.F.A. in Violin Performance from National Taiwan Normal University in Taipei, Taiwan
Dr. Pei-Shan*
See Pei-shan’s performance
Sylvia is internationally experienced piano, violin, cello and music theory teacher. With 30+ years of experience, she has taught, led, and conducted numerous festivals and concerts. Her experience includes private and group lessons, K-12 music classrooms, and ensemble conducting. Her students have excelled in national competitions, college and orchestra auditions, and ABRSM exams with her goal being that students not only attain the highest possible score but more importantly grow their love for music and also prepares students for Certificate of Merit (CM) exams. She believes that creating opportunities for students to perform in ensembles and community performance outreach programs is important in enriching the child's growth and love for music.
M.M. in Violin Performance and Pedagogy from Texas Christian University
B.A. in Music in Violin and Piano Performance from Western Illinois University
FTCL - (Piano) Fellow of the Trinity College of London
Long Term Suzuki Teacher Training with Moshe Neumann and Barbara Barber
Sylvia*
John’s belief in the importance of a skilled teacher began at age five when he and his parents drove two hours to his violin lessons every week just to see his own teacher. John later went on to study with Bettina Mussumeli for his bachelor’s degree and Kay Stern for his master’s degree. Mr. Maich teaches beginning through advanced violin as well as viola lessons to all age groups.
Emphasizing the development of natural body movement, including use of the Alexander Technique, John also focuses on inner musicality & expression, as well as the development of self-image & personal wellness. John caters his teaching style to suit the needs of every individual student. Throughout his years in music education, John’s students have shown significant success in auditions, performances, competitions, and exams including ABRSM, RCM and CM.
M.M. in Violin Performance from San Francisco Conservatory of Music
B.M. in Violin Performance from San Francisco Conservatory of Music
John*
CELLO
Standard Cello Teachers (Level I)
Chris started learning the cello at the age of 9 in his hometown of Mission Viejo, CA, and was tutoring classmates in the cello by high school. Since then, he has taught students from the very young to late in life, including as a cello coach for the youngest ensembles of the Boston Youth Symphony Orchestras and giving lessons to students in BYSO’s Intensive Community Program.
As a performer, Chris has a wide range of experience, ranging from performances at Boston’s Symphony Hall under the baton of Ken David Masur or premiering orchestral works in Geneva and Paris, to operas and musicals, and to live bands. When teaching, Chris believes in providing students with a solid foundation, not only technically, but musically, through developing aural skills, a strong sense of rhythm, and knowledge of music theory. He seeks to help every student find music that inspires them, and give them the skills to express it on the cello.
B.M. in Cello Performance from Boston University
Chris
Senior Cello Teachers (Level II)
Sylvia is internationally experienced piano, violin, cello and music theory teacher. With 30+ years of experience, she has taught, led, and conducted numerous festivals and concerts. Her experience includes private and group lessons, K-12 music classrooms, and ensemble conducting. Her students have excelled in national competitions, college and orchestra auditions, and ABRSM exams with her goal being that students not only attain the highest possible score but more importantly grow their love for music and also prepares students for Certificate of Merit (CM) exams. She believes that creating opportunities for students to perform in ensembles and community performance outreach programs is important in enriching the child's growth and love for music.
M.M. in Violin Performance and Pedagogy from Texas Christian University
B.A. in Music in Violin and Piano Performance from Western Illinois University
FTCL - (Piano) Fellow of the Trinity College of London
Long Term Suzuki Teacher Training with Moshe Neumann and Barbara Barber
Sylvia
Master Cello Teachers (Level III)
A graduate of the Juilliard School, Elliot enjoys an active career as a chamber musician, soloist and accomplished Cello teacher. Elliot’s concert appearances include performances as soloist with the UMBC orchestra, and the National Music Festival orchestra, as well as chamber music appearances at Carnegie Hall, and Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center.
Over the past 10 years, Elliot has taught at schools in both New York and Philadelphia, and has experience with students of all ages and levels. His teaching approach is built on 3 main axis: building problem solving skills and effective practice routines, developing a strong technical foundation, and fostering expression and musicality.
B.M. in Cello Performance from The Juilliard School of Music
M.M. in Cello Performance from Temple University
Elliot
GUITAR & Ukulele*
Kenta is an aspiring guitarist, composer and educator, who is a 2018 Downbeat Student Award winner and graduate of the New School of Jazz in NYC.
As a performer and composer, Kenta released his debut record “Glimpse” in 2019, which received international critical acclaim for breaking new ground in contemporary jazz and metal music. As an educator, he has been teaching since 2012, to a diverse clientele, ranging from early music education in public school programs, to college-level music theory and ear training to university students.
From his experience teaching students of all ages and levels, Kenta prioritizes helping students find music they will love to listen, play and practice. Discovering the joy of performing music is at the core of Kenta’s teaching.
B.F.A. in Jazz Performance from The New School of Jazz
Kenta*
John has extensive background in guitar instruction including 30+ years of both private and group guitar teaching for students of all ages, preschool through adulthood and in all styles including rock, blues, pop, country, folk, jazz, and classical. In addition to John’s teaching experience, he is also a well-known performer and recording artist, having won two consecutive first-place awards in the Portland Music Company Guitar Competition and released more than a dozen professionally recorded albums available across iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, and other digital streaming platforms.
John believes in the importance of catering specifically to each student’s individual interests and learning goals. Within his available skills to share with students, he prides himself on the ability to offer a structured curriculum that can include reading chord charts, traditional staff, and tablature, and the opportunity to learn to play by ear. Lessons include playing both solid rhythm guitar and melodic lead guitar while exploring a discussion of the creative process such as basic songwriting with melodic and rhythmic accompaniment. Lesson material is supplemented with related articles, concert information, new releases, and recommendations and resources on equipment care and maintenance.
John’s students have acquired a lifelong love of music, whether in it for weekly fun, or a professional-track guitar career. Regardless of a student’s learning goals, John’s instruction provides a creative and fun learning environment for all students.
John*
Vincent teaches popular and contemporary music. He works with students to find the variety of music they fall in love with playing. Vincent also teaches Ukulele.
Studied at the French National Music School in Paris.
Vincent*
(Online only)
Joseph-Napoleon is a classical guitarist who has been mentored by some of the world's finest classical guitarists. His instructors include GRAMMY award-winning artist Jason Vieaux, internationally acclaimed concert artist Marcin Dylla, and the distinguished faculty at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. At the Conservatory, he studied under the guidance of David Tanenbaum, the Chair of the Classical Guitar department, from which he graduated and earned his degree. As a performer, he is the 1st prize winner of the Sierra Nevada National Classical Guitar Competition. He has performed numerous concerts as a soloist and a collaborative musician in festivals and various venues/halls.
Joseph-Napoleon is also a strong believer in music education, as he himself has been directly impacted by it and is a product of passionate music educators. With multiple years of teaching experience catering to all ages and skill levels, he ardently imparts his knowledge and expertise to students, guiding them toward unlocking their complete musical potential.
B.M. in Classical Guitar Performance from San Francisco Conservatory of Music
Joseph
See Joseph’s Performance
VOICE
Standard Voice Teachers (Level I)
Akshara is an accomplished music educator with over 12 years of teaching and performance experience. Trained in classical music, she specializes in diverse genres, including classical voice, musical theatre, Jazz, Pop, and Indian Carnatic music. Her performances span cultural hubs in Boston and the SF Bay Area.
With a personalized approach, Akshara guides students towards tailored SMART goals, combining music theory, instrumental mastery, stage presence, and band etiquette. She empowers students not only artistically but also for life's challenges. Her commitment is a holistic foundation for lifelong learning.
Balancing education with performance, Akshara has shared stages with luminaries like Andrea Bocelli, collaborated with The Real Group, and performed at venues like Carnegie Hall. She's a resident vocalist with San Jose’s 7th Street Big Band, known for performances at San Jose Jazz’s Summerfest. Numerous upcoming projects are in the pipeline.
B.M. in Vocal Performance from San Jose State University (Jazz Specialization)
Akshara - Accepting Students age 5+
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Senior Voice Teachers (Level II)
Natasha has performed internationally as an Opera singer and recently performing with Lyric Studio Weimar in Germany for the past two years as Donna Elvira in Mozart’s Don Giovanni, Rosalinde in Johann Strauss’s Die Fledermaus in addition to solo performances with Shasta Symphony Orchestra’s performance of Handel’s Messiah and Haydn’s Mass in B-flat Major In 2017, she was the winner of the North State Symphony Young Artist Competition and sang the following year as a featured soloist with the Symphony.
M.M. in Vocal Performance from San Francisco Conservatory of Music
Natasha - Accepting Students age 5+
Lauren Haber has been singing and teaching for over 25 years. She has sung all over the world and collaborated with amazing musicians in many concerts, operas, and magnificent halls. Her career also extends to teaching internationally, being choir section leader, assistant conducting, presenting masterclasses, and as a director in a music organization. Her teaching has allowed her students to sing on Broadway, at international opera houses, in choir concerts, and in movies. She has an extensive knowledge of different musical styles including Opera, Classical, Broadway, Jazz, Gospel, and Pop. Lauren loves to teach and is open to students of all ages from beginners to advanced. She combines her performance and teaching experience to inspire music through positivity and enthusiasm.
M.M. in Vocal Performance from Manhattan School of Music
B.M. in Vocal Performance from Long Island University
A.D. from Aaron Copland School of Music
Young-Rang graduated from Yonsei University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Voice, and then attended the famed San Francisco Conservatory of Music where she received a Master’s Degree in Voice. Young-Rang has both performing and teaching experience in voice, piano, and group classes. She was chosen for the main role of Carmen in the San Francisco Opera Guild’s production of Carmen, and received first place in the Bay Area Opera League's competition. Additionally, she studied under Jane Randolph and worked with Kathy Cathcart and Williene Gunn. She was selected for coveted positions in masterclasses with Cynthia Hoffman and Elena Obraztsova. Young-Rang has frequently performed as a soloist and alongside various musical groups upon invitation in the Bay Area. As a vocal coach teaching students and groups in the Bay Area, she continues her work as the Choir Director at the Berkeley Korean United Methodist Church and the Music Director of the JOY Concert.
M.M. in Vocal Performance from San Francisco Conservatory of Music
B.M. in Vocal Performance from Yonsei University
Lauren - Accepting Students age 5+
Young-Rang - Accepting Students age 5+
Master Voice Teachers (Level III)
Michelle is an accomplished European-trained opera singer and music educator with a rich international experience both on stage and as a teacher. She sang at the Zurich Opera House in Switzerland before co-founded the “Volksoper Zürich” company and has been giving countless concerts and operas in the USA,Europe and Asia. She studied vocal performance at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Heidelberg/Mannheim, Germany, followed by a master’s degree in Elementary Music Education. She has taught voice and piano extensively. Her experience as an educator includes the creation of a music program for a music academy in San Diego, CA, and teaching assignments at music schools and public schools in the USA, Germany and Switzerland. Michelle loves all music styles and shares that passion with her students, whom she motivates and encourage to explore the music that they like. She is an excellent communicator and listener and helps students to reach their potential and goals. Her teaching is flexible so that students can progress at their own speed. Above all, she believes that; “Life is better with Music!”.
M.M. in Vocal Performance at the Conservatory of Zurich, Switzerland
B.A. in Music Education and Vocal Performance from University of Music and the Performing Arts in Heidelberg, Germany
Michelle
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