Student Spotlight: Valentina Price

For the month of June, we are thrilled to spotlight one of our youngest rising stars, Valentina Price.

Just 7 years old, Valentina was a First Prize recipient of the Golden Classical International Competition in 2024 and a First Prize recipient at the Charleston International Music Competition this year. Valentina will be joining the rest of the talented group of New Mozart students at the Carnegie hall this July. We can't wait to see all that lies ahead for this exceptional young talent.

1 What is your name and how old are you?

My name is Valentina Price and I am 7 years old.

2. How long have you been studying music and how old were you when you first started?

I have been studying the piano since I was 5 years old. It's been almost 3 years now.

3. Who is your teacher?

My teacher is Ludmila.

4. What pieces are you currently working on?

I am currently working on Mazurka in G minor by Frederic Chopin, Sonatina No.6 in C major K 439b by W.A. Mozart, and Graceful Dance in duet by Arthur Foote. Also, I am doing a lot of finger practice.

5. How often do you practice?

I practice piano 5 times a week.

6. Why do you love music?

I have a lot of reasons to love music. Music is actually like education: fun to learn, often challenging, and always rewarding.

7. Tell us about some of your recent accomplishments.

In 2025, I am working very hard to participate in the New Mozart Carnegie Hall Recital in New York. I completed a year of the NM Practice Challenge and earned my plaque. Also, I was a First Prize winner for the Charleston International Music Competition at the beginning of the year.

8. What are some things you like doing besides music?

I like playing board games, coloring, drawing, reading books, swimming, dancing, having nature walks, and playing some educational apps. I especially enjoy having a boba tea time.

9. What do you want to be when you grow up?

This is actually a fantastic question. I want to be a pianist in the orchestra (my dream), family lawyer (my occupation) and a dance instructor (for fun!).

Where Talent Comes From

Where Talent Comes From
The role of practice, motivation, and environment in building talent

by Christine Shin

At New Mozart, we often hear things like, “She’s so talented!” or “He must have been born with a gift.” While it's true that some students take to music more quickly than others, bestselling author Daniel Coyle offers a surprising - and encouraging - perspective in his book The Talent Code: talent isn’t a gift you’re born with. It’s a skill you build.

And the best part? Science shows us how.

Practice Doesn't Just Make Perfect – It Builds Brainpower

Coyle traveled around the world visiting “talent hotbeds” - tiny schools, rundown gyms, and modest music studios that consistently produce world-class performers. What he found wasn’t magic or miracle genes. He found something called deep practice.

Deep practice is the opposite of going through the motions. It means slowing down, working on the hard parts, making mistakes, and correcting them with full focus. In other words, it’s that uncomfortable zone just beyond your current ability - where real growth happens.

The Secret Ingredient? Myelin

Every time we practice something deeply, we fire certain neural circuits in our brain. Over time, those circuits get wrapped in a substance called myelin - a kind of insulation that makes those pathways faster and stronger. Myelin is what turns slow, clumsy effort into smooth, expert skill.

So when your child practices a tricky piano passage or works to master a new rhythm, they’re not just “getting better.” They’re literally rewiring their brain.

Talent is Fueled by Passion

But skill-building isn’t just about hard work: it’s also about ignition. No one keeps practicing just because they’re told to. Coyle describes ignition as the spark that makes someone fall in love with the work of getting better. Sometimes it’s a moment of inspiration (like seeing someone just like you achieve something amazing). Sometimes it’s a teacher who believes in you. That spark is what keeps students coming back to the piano bench, the practice room, or the music stand, even when it’s hard.

The Power of a Master Coach

Coyle emphasizes the importance of a master coach: the kind of teacher or mentor who doesn’t just give instructions, but truly understands how to guide students through deep, lasting growth.

Master coaches are able to break down complex skills into small, manageable steps. They pay close attention to details, offer clear and immediate feedback, and know how to challenge students without overwhelming them. Their approach is not about quick results, but about building strong foundations over time.

In our work at New Mozart, we’ve seen how much a thoughtful, engaged teacher can change the course of a student’s learning. They encourage deliberate effort, celebrate progress, and help students stay motivated even through setbacks. Their presence often becomes a turning point in a student’s journey.

Great teaching isn’t just about content. It’s about knowing when to push, when to step back, and how to bring out the best in each individual.

Great Learning Environments Make All the Difference

Coyle also highlights the importance of what he calls talent hotbeds: environments where deep practice, passion, and expert guidance come together. These places aren’t always fancy. What they have in common is a culture that celebrates effort, focuses on fundamentals, and gives students the space to stretch, fail, and grow.

It’s a great reminder that environment matters and why we’re so intentional at New Mozart about nurturing a community where practice is celebrated, passion is sparked, and every student feels supported on their musical journey.

What This Means for Parents

The message of The Talent Code is both simple and profound: talent is not fixed. With the right kind of practice, encouragement, and environment, any child can develop extraordinary ability over time.

When you hear a student play with confidence or expression, it’s not just a reflection of innate talent; it’s a reflection of the work behind the scenes - the small, steady steps that built that musicality over time.

Greatness doesn’t appear overnight. It’s something that’s shaped, practiced, and earned - one lesson at a time.

Student Spotlight: Annabel Zhao

For the month of May, we are delighted to feature one of our long time voice students, Annabel Zhao.

Annabel is an accomplished vocalist who continues to shine in both classical and musical theatre. She won first place in her NATS competition in the classical division in 2021 and placed again in both categories in 2024. In 2023, she advanced to the national round of the Classical Singer Magazine competition and was named a 2024 All State Winner for California. This year, she was named a 2025 Golden Classical International Competition winner and will be performing at Carnegie Hall at the winner’s concert. Annabel has earned New Mozart’s Distinguished Honors for several consecutive years and was a semi-finalist in the Music International Grand Prix. Her dedication, talent, and work ethic are truly inspiring. Read our recent interview with her here.

1 . What is your name and how old are you?

My name is Annabel Zhao and I’m currently 15 years old.

2. How long have you been studying music and how old were you when you first started?

I’ve been studying music ever since I can remember. Things started out when my brother joined the Crystal Choir, so I got enrolled as well. Eventually, in the 3rd grade, my parents decided that singing solo stages might be more suited for me, so I got the pleasure of being a student of Ms. Diane.

3. Who is your teacher?

Ms. Diane! She’s a wonderful opera singer and absolutely lovely 😀

4. What pieces are you currently working on?

I’m currently working on “Se Tu M’ami”, and I hope to polish this piece as much as possible for my competitions.

5. How often do you practice?

I practice on the weekends, and on weekdays after I finish my homework as much as possible. I tend to sing for around an hour, or a bit more/less than that, depending on the time constraint.

6. Why do you love music?

I like the feeling of freedom it gives. When I sing, I am able to pursue whichever song interests me. It feels nice to hear your voice be strengthened into something new, and it’s wonderful to control your voice in beautiful ways. 

7. Tell us about some of your recent accomplishments. (you can include the practice challenge. honor roll etc)

I recently became a finalist in the Golden Classic International Competition, and I’m set to perform at Carnegie Hall in July in the winner’s concert! I’m super excited! 

8. What are some things you like doing besides music?

I enjoy drawing, going to the mall with my friends and family, and playing video games. But honestly, ever since sophomore year started, I’ve been unable to play video games. My guilty pleasure is binge reading novels and manga.

9. What do you want to be when you grow up?

To be honest, I don’t know yet. I used to want to be a UI designer, but recently, my interests in that field have curbed. I think I’ll find my path in college. My goal for now is to just get in, and I’m sure I’ll find something I love during college! I’m still young :D

Strings of Wisdom: A Conversation with Dr. Yang

Q & A w/ Dr. Yang

One of my main messages to aspiring musicians is to approach music as a journey, not a destination. It’s important to cultivate patience, persistence, and self-compassion.

We sat down with our violin/viola teacher extraordinaire, Dr. Yang for a Q&A. She holds a Master’s degree from the Shanghai Conservatory, a second Master’s degree from the Peabody Conservatory, and a Doctorate from the University of Minnesota.

How old were you when you started taking music lessons and what was your first instrument?

I started to learn the violin when I was 3 and a half years old. My mom and I watched the televised Vienna New Year's concert. I told her I wanted to play “that thing on TV” too. So my mom started buying me a violin and looking for a teacher. Later when I entered the Conservatory, I learned more about the viola and grew to love it. So I started to learn the viola performance professionally until I graduated with my doctoral.

Who/what inspired you to become a musician and music teacher?

From an early age, music was a central part of my life, inspired by both my family’s love for music and the dedication of my music teachers. Their passion and support made me see the beauty and power of music, and I wanted to help others experience that same joy. As I grew, I found that teaching allowed me to combine my love for music with my desire to make a positive impact in people’s lives, and pass on the beauty of music.

Who or what have been the most important influences on your musical life and career?

Throughout my career, I've been influenced by several wonderful mentors who taught me not just technique, but also how to be expressive and thoughtful in my playing. Each teacher inspired me and taught me in their unique way. This enriched my understanding of teaching and made me very good at adapting my teaching style in time for different students. They instilled in me the importance of expression and perseverance. This has improved my professional abilities and has also shaped my personality, making me a more resilient person at the same time.

Tell us about your musical and teaching background.

I studied music formally, earning two master's degrees at Shanghai Conservatory and Peabody Institute, and a doctor's degree at the University of Minnesota. My journey includes both solo and professional orchestral performances, which have enriched my understanding of different musical styles and settings. Teaching became a natural extension of my passion for music. I have over 15 years of teaching experience. Working with a diverse range of students, from beginners to advanced musicians. I teach students as young as four, focusing on creating a nurturing environment where they can learn the fundamentals, build confidence, and develop a genuine love for music.

Do you have important ideas and concepts to impart to aspiring musicians?

One of my main messages to aspiring musicians is to approach music as a journey, not a destination. It’s important to cultivate patience, persistence, and self-compassion. Growth in music doesn’t happen overnight; it’s a gradual process that requires both technical skill and emotional connection to the music. I also encourage students to explore creativity and expression in their practice, making music something personal and meaningful to them.

What do you love most about teaching?

Teaching allows me to witness and contribute to each student’s unique journey of growth and discovery. I love seeing students develop not only their technical skills but also a deep appreciation for music. Helping students overcome challenges, watching their confidence grow, and seeing them find joy in their accomplishments is incredibly rewarding. Teaching also lets me share my passion and continue learning myself, as each student brings something unique to the learning process.

Do you have a practice tip you want to share with our students?

One of the most effective practice tips I can offer is to set small, achievable goals for each practice session. Rather than just focusing on time, aim to accomplish specific tasks—whether it’s mastering a challenging phrase, improving intonation, or working on rhythm. Also, incorporate focused listening and take breaks to avoid mental fatigue. Consistent, thoughtful practice is far more valuable than mindlessly going through the motions.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not teaching, practicing, or performing?

Outside of music, I enjoy activities that allow me to relax and recharge. I love reading, exploring new genres of literature, and spending time outdoors. I also find inspiration in attending live performances and learning from other art forms.

A Joyous Celebration of Talent — 2025 NM Honors Recital Highlights

What a beautiful afternoon we had at the New Mozart Honors Recital on Sunday, March 30! This special event was dedicated to recognizing students who have shown exceptional dedication, growth, and artistry in their musical journey.

Our performers included some of our highest-achieving students — several of whom recently earned top prizes at regional and international competitions — as well as aspiring young musicians who have impressed their teachers with their strong work ethic and tremendous potential. Each performance was a reflection of countless hours of practice, commitment, and love for music.

It was truly inspiring to see our students shine on stage, sharing the results of their hard work with such confidence and poise. Thank you to our devoted faculty for their ongoing mentorship, and to all the families who continue to support and encourage our students behind the scenes.

We’ve shared some photo highlights from this memorable day above. Be sure to check them out and relive some of the beautiful moments!

We’re so proud of all our Honors performers and can’t wait to see what they achieve next. Stay tuned for our upcoming events — and don’t forget to register for the New Mozart Summer Student Recital coming up in June!

Nia Spaulding: From New Mozart to the Opera Stage

Nia's musical journey has taken her from our Harmony Road classrooms to the stages of Europe, the U.S., and Mexico. Read about her inspiring path and achievements in this interview.

  1. Can you introduce yourself to our New Mozart community?

    Hello New Mozart community! My name is Nia Spaulding and I am a 23 year old soprano. I currently attend the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM) for my Masters of Music. I also obtained my Bachelor of Music from the same university. My degree focus is voice performance where I am pursuing a solo operatic career. 

  2. How did your musical journey begin, and how old were you when you first started learning music?

    My music journey began at New Mozart! I always loved music and my father, who taught guitar at New Mozart for many years, put me into Harmony Road classes when I was four years old. At the age of 10, I enrolled in the San Francisco Girls Chorus (SFGC) where my love of singing and classical voice grew. I distinctly remember my audition for SFGC. I was asked a few music theory questions and it was because of the foundational learning I received at New Mozart through Harmony Road and private piano lessons I was able to respond with confidence.

  3. Who were your teachers at New Mozart, and who are you studying with now at the conservatory? - New Mozart’s Director/Founder Christine Shin was my Harmony Road teacher and I also took some private piano lessons. At CCM I have been studying with my voice teacher Dr. Gwendolyn Coleman for the past five years. 

  4. What are you currently pursuing in your musical career, and what inspires you most about it? - I am pursuing a masters degree in music, specifically voice performance. Again my focus is on solo classical voice and my main passion is opera. Something I love about opera is how emotionally driven it is. The orchestration, the libretto, and the human production of each show are so emotionally heightened. It moves us as artists but also moves audience members that are addicting to be a part of. Opera is such a collaborative art form and I always loved ensemble collaboration. Whether it was Harmony Road or the girls chorus, I deeply appreciate that the art form requires artists to work with their cast mates, the orchestra, the conductors and directors, and all of the crew from costumes and lights, to stage management. I may sing an aria on stage alone but I am never truly by myself.

  5. If you could perform on any stage in the world, where would it be and why?

    Wow, that’s a loaded question! Since I first discovered opera, my dream was to sing solo on the Metropolitan Opera’s stage in New York City. To share the stage with such beautiful artists and stars that I look up to in my craft would be absolutely incredible. The MET would be a dream, however, what intrigues me more are my dream operatic roles rather than dream venues. Roles I aspire to embody often are a part of shows I had the honor of being in, whether in the chorus or as a supporting role over the years. I can’t wait to sing my own Mimì (La bohème) or Suor Angelica one day!

  6. What advice would you give to a young student who’s just starting their musical journey?

    Take advantage of any opportunity to learn. I am so grateful that I have such a wonderful support system that allowed me to explore and experiment in music so I found what I truly love. I took piano lessons, clarinet lessons at school, and even tried the cello, all while singing at SFGC. If you are a young singer I can’t recommend enough to take piano lessons and to continue learning. I wish I continued because it is such a wonderful skill to have. Knowing the piano will never not be useful in your musical career. Another piece of advice I’d give young musicians is to be patient. Musical progress isn’t produced overnight and it can be discouraging spending hours in the practice room and not getting the results you strive for. Progress is not linear and it took me a long time to accept that! 

  7. How do you stay motivated and disciplined in your music practice?

    Sometimes I don’t! There are some days I have to accept that my mind and body needs a break and listening to that is so important. Finding time for self care within my studies allows me to become excited and motivated for any work I have to get done. When you have the opportunity to find and learn music that you love, use it! There will be times when you have to obviously learn and perform a piece that wasn’t your choice, so when you have the chance to do your own research and find pieces that excite you, it makes the learning process that much more enjoyable. As a singer I can’t sing in the practice room all day so finding ways to practice non-verbally is a game changer. Whether that’s score studying, translating my words, working on memorization, etc, exploring different ways of practicing is very important and keeps the wonderful work you’re doing engaging.

  8. What’s one skill or life lesson you’ve gained from studying music that you think is valuable for everyone? - Music for me has always been a collaborative experience. Starting with Harmony Road, I learned from a very young age how important it is to put your all in your work not solely for your individual benefit but for the betterment of the group. There is something so fulfilling in realizing that the people around you like your teachers and colleagues all want the best for you. It is true that what you put in is what you’ll receive back. This applies beyond musical collaboration but into all aspects of your life. 

  9. Can you share how your experience in Harmony Road at New Mozart shaped your love for music and your career path? - One assignment I remember having in Harmony Road was composing a short piece. Mine was called “Bluesy Sun” and I can still vividly remember the picture I drew alongside it. While I am not pursuing becoming a composer, thanks to Harmony Road, composition has always been an interest of mine. Surprisingly enough, as much as I love learning and performing opera, it isn’t something I listen to all the time. I find myself loving to listen to instrumental music, specifically film composition, and I do believe that tapping into my own compositional skills in Harmony Road always gave me a deep appreciation for it. The musicianship skills I developed at such a young age at Harmony Road continue to be so valuable in my career. Having a good musical ear is something anyone can develop and is so important no matter the instrument. 

  10. What are your future plans, and what message would you like to share with our New Mozart families and students? - While I only have one more year to complete my Masters degree in voice performance, I’m quite sure I will not be done with my education. I anticipate that I will audition for multiple Artistic Diploma degrees across many schools so that I can deepen my operatic experience/resume and continue working with a voice teacher as my voice fully develops. Beyond education, I hope to be a part of a young artist residency. Currently, I work closely with Cincinnati Opera and am excited to be in their chorus this Summer for the second year. Reflecting on the past busy school year, I’m so grateful for every opportunity given and can’t wait to see what is next in store! New Mozart friends and families know that supporting your own or your child’s musical journey is a tremendous gift. Especially in this moment right now, the arts are needed more than ever to promote creative thinking and curiosity. I’ve found over the years how healing music is. It is a lifelong passion that has the power to deeply connect with people in ways you’d never believe and it is never too late to be a part of it.

A Musical Journey: Teacher Wanyi on Inspiration, Teaching, and Growth

Q & A w/Teacher Wanyi

I truly enjoy helping students overcome their challenges — it feels like I’m growing alongside them. As they develop new skills and build confidence, I find myself learning and improving as well.

We sat down with our piano teacher, Teacher Wanyi for a Q&A. She holds a Bachelor of Music degree from Univeristy of Taipei and Master of Music degree from Taipei National University of the Arts.

  1. How old were you when you started taking music lessons and what was your first instrument?I began learning the piano when I was eight years old. I attended church with my parents regularly, and I was deeply moved by the music I heard there. That experience inspired me to start my musical journey.

  2. Who/what inspired you to become a musician and music teacher?

    When I was in elementary school, I watched a movie called Les Choristes. I was deeply moved by its message — it showed me how music can bring hope, build confidence, and connect people. That film made me realize the powerful impact music can have, inspiring me to pursue a path where I could share that same positive influence with others.

  3. Who or what have been the most important influences on your musical life and career?

    While the teachers and friends I met in music school have greatly influenced my technique and musical interpretation, the most important influence in my musical journey has been my parents. Even though they don’t really understand classical music or what I’m playing and practicing, their unwavering support, encouragement, and presence have been invaluable in helping me continue pursuing music with dedication and passion.

  4. Is there a particular piece of music or composer that you feel especially connected to, and why?

    I’ve found myself drawn to different pieces at various stages of my life, but the one I feel especially connected to is J.S. Bach’s Goldberg Variations: Aria. Every time I hear this piece, I feel refreshed and calm — as if it has the power to reset my mind and bring me a sense of peace.

  5. Do you have important ideas and concepts to impart to aspiring musicians?

    Embrace the learning process with patience and persistence, and celebrate every small achievement along the way. Music will become your lifelong companion, always offering new challenges and joys to explore. Stay curious, and let your passion for music continue to grow with you.

  6. What do you love most about teaching?

    I truly enjoy helping students overcome their challenges — it feels like I’m growing alongside them. As they develop new skills and build confidence, I find myself learning and improving as well. Seeing students achieve their goals, play their dream pieces, and become more confident in themselves gives me a strong sense of accomplishment.

  7. Do you have a practice tip you want to share with our students?

    Practicing hard is important, but practicing smart is even more crucial. For me, breaking pieces into small sections and practicing them repeatedly has been incredibly effective. Additionally, sticking to a consistent fingering is essential, as it helps build muscle memory and allows you to play more confidently and efficiently.

  8. What advice would you give to parents who want to support their children in music?Encourage patience and celebrate small achievements, allowing your child to explore and grow at their own pace. With love and encouragement, music will become a lifelong source of joy and fulfillment.

  9. What do you enjoy doing when you’re not teaching, practicing, or performing?

    Recently, I've been spending a lot of time with my cat, who’s incredibly clingy and always by my side. Besides that, I enjoy cooking and baking. Exploring new recipes excites me, and I love discovering different flavors and techniques. I also find grocery shopping surprisingly relaxing — exploring different kinds of supermarkets has become one of my favorite ways to unwind.

Teaching from the Heart: A Conversation with Teacher Catarina

Q & A w/ Teacher Catarina

Be curious—listen to yourself each day. Be consistent with practicing, even if it’s just 15 minutes. And stay confident that every time you practice, you’re improving. Follow the “Three C’s”: Curiosity, Consistency, Confidence.

We sat down with our cello teacher, Teacher Catarina for a Q&A. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Royal Northern College of Music, and a Master’s degree from the Peabody Conservatory.

How old were you when you started taking music lessons and what was your first instrument?

I started piano lessons at 6, but even earlier, I’d play the ukulele with my uncle, which was my first taste of making music. Those early days were full of joy and discovery!

Who/what inspired you to become a musician and music teacher?

My uncle sparked my passion for music, but it was my beloved cello teacher, Karine Georgian, who inspired me to teach, showing me the profound impact a dedicated mentor can have.

Who or what have been the most important influences on your musical life and career?

Many wonderful cellists have shaped my musical path—Jaqueline Du Pré, Rostropovich, Misha Maisky, Daniil Shafran, and Yo-Yo Ma, among others, each offering unique artistry and depth.

Tell us about your musical and teaching background.

Born in Portugal, I studied music in Portugal, England, and the United States. Each place introduced me to different teaching philosophies and allowed me to connect deeply with students of various ages and cultures.

Is there a particular piece of music or composer that you feel especially connected to, and why?

I love discovering new music every day, as each piece brings something fresh to enjoy and explore. I believe music is an endless journey of discovery

Do you have important ideas and concepts to impart to aspiring musicians?

Find the love in what you do, and it will carry you through any challenge. Passion is the most powerful motivation.

What do you love most about teaching?

Seeing a student’s "lightbulb moment" is everything. Helping them solve problems and grow is incredibly rewarding.

Do you have a practice tip you want to share with our students?

Be curious—listen to yourself each day. Be consistent with practicing, even if it’s just 15 minutes. And stay confident that every time you practice, you’re improving. Follow the “Three C’s”: Curiosity, Consistency, Confidence.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not teaching, practicing, or performing?

I love discovering new hiking trails with my husband and dog, working in the garden, tackling DIY projects, and keeping active with exercise.

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