1. How old were you when you started taking music lessons and what was your first instrument?
When I was seven, I got my first piano from my parents because every time I passed by a piano store and heard someone playing, I would stop and listen. I also enjoyed playing my grandpa's electronic keyboard, even if it just made some noise at that time. Thanks to my parents for respecting my interests and buying me a piano, starting my over two-decade-long journey of learning it.
2. Who/what inspired you to become a musician and music teacher?
I started learning the piano systematically at the age of seven, initially without a specific goal of becoming a pianist. My parents saw it as a hobby, aiming to cultivate discipline, creativity, and the ability to overcome challenges. Around high school, my piano teacher suggested considering a path in music professionally. Perhaps due to a genuine love for the piano, I quickly decided to do it. Becoming a teacher has always been my career aspiration, as I truly enjoy sharing knowledge and witnessing others grow.
3. Who or what have been the most important influences on your musical life and career?
I believe it's been each of my piano teachers. Fortunately, every one of them has provided excellent and incredibly patient guidance. They each had their teaching styles and musical insights. I've benefited greatly from learning with them, and through study and reflection, I've developed my own teaching methods and philosophy.
4. Tell us about your musical and teaching background.
I started learning the piano at seven and continued without interruption, smoothly progressing. After completing my undergraduate studies at South China Normal University's Music College, I wanted to experience different learning styles and cultural atmospheres. So, I came to the United States, earning Master's and D.M.A degrees at Temple University and the University of Southern Mississippi, respectively. Throughout this journey, I've performed solo, collaborative and chamber recitals in various places, achieving commendable results in several competitions.
Becoming a good piano teacher has always been my goal. I began as a private piano teacher during my undergraduate years, working with students of all ages and levels. During my doctoral studies, I also served as a teaching assistant for class piano. The diverse teaching experiences have helped me understand how to tailor my approach more effectively to individual students.
5. Do you have important ideas and concepts to impart to aspiring musicians?
Don't waste your talents, especially in learning piano, effort equals reward. Diligent practice with focus is a necessary step to uncover and unleash your potential. Therefore, maintaining a consistent practice routine and using the right methods is crucial at every stage of piano learning.
6. What do you love most about teaching?
For me, the greatest joy in teaching is sharing my knowledge with students and witnessing their progress. Whether they conquer a challenging technique, complete a piece, perform on stage, or achieve success in a competition, seeing students gain skills and joy from learning music is the most rewarding part of being a teacher.
7. Do you have a practice tip you want to share with our students?
When practicing the piano, it's essential to establish and stick to a regular practice routine. Don't just mindlessly repeat the entire piece from start to finish to fill the time. Clearly identify key practice points. For difficult passages, practice them slowly and separately to ensure your fingers and brain develop the right memory.
8. What do you enjoy doing when you’re not teaching, practicing, or performing?
It's gotta be exploring delicious food with family! We love to eat and enjoy trying different cuisines. Whenever we discover delicious food or find a new great restaurant, it brings so much joy!
