Q&A
What age range of students do you usually work with?
My youngest beginner student was 2.5 years old, and the oldest was 83 years old! I believe music is for everyone, and that you don’t have to be “talented” to learn it. I also believe that there is no such thing as a “bad” student — only a teacher who hasn’t found the right way to guide them. In other words, I believe education should be student-centered and tailored to each learner’s strengths, weaknesses, interests, and personality.
How do you approach lesson planning and preparation?
As I believe education should be student-centered, I assess each student’s strengths, weaknesses, and interests, then plan lessons according to specific goals. For my beginner students, I have curated and designed a method book that aligns with my teaching philosophy. I believe every student has potential if guided in the right way, so I do my best to spark their interest in music and then cultivate their fundamental musical abilities through games and activities. I will never give my students a boring lesson!
How do you measure progress and assess learning outcomes for your students?
This should be conducted regularly, as every student learns at a different pace. Personally, I plan every activity ahead, and each repertoire or theory assignment has its own objective. I always make sure my student is able to do it before I assign it to them.
Do you provide regular homework and assignments, and how do you review and provide feedback on student work?
Yes, I do! But only in a way that never stresses the student (or the parents, haha!). In musical training, daily practice is essential — but a younger beginner who struggles to focus at first can always start with shorter practice sessions.
What technology or resources do you use to enhance your lessons, particularly for online sessions?
Currently, I only offer live piano lessons in Hong Kong. During in-person lessons, I use a variety of games I’ve designed, each serving a different purpose. They are all educational and fun — verified by my dear students!
Do you provide any additional support outside of scheduled lesson times, such as answering questions via email or phone?
Yes, I do! I actually encourage parents to film their child's practice sessions and send them to me. I will provide encouragement and feedback to help the student progress even more effectively!
Do you have any specific strategies for motivating students who may be struggling or disengaged with the subject material?
I believe students struggle because the teacher did not assess their abilities well and did not cover all the necessary skills the students need in order to complete the assignment.
Do you have experience working with students with learning differences or special needs?
Yes, I do — a lot! I have worked with students who are autistic, have ADHD, as well as a dyslexic adult student, and their lessons went extremely well! For your information, I hold a Professional Certificate in Autism and Neurodiversity in Early Childcare from the University of British Columbia, which has equipped me with the skills to cater to the needs of students who require additional educational support.