Introduction: Hi there, I am Vivian!
I am a classical pianist and progressive educator based in New York City.
I am known for my innovative teaching style and play-based experiential teaching philosophy. As an instructor, my priority is cultivating joy in learning through exploration and self expression. I am an expert in facilitating self awareness and fostering social emotional intelligence with a focus in healing through art and play. I work extensively with beginners and specialize in early childhood and elementary music instruction. I incorporate Kodály and Orff pedagogies including solfège singing to help my students develop an inner ear to internalize music, as well as movement and stories to help them embody the sound as they learn to play the piano.
A licensed New York State certified music teacher, I hold a MA in Music Education from New York University and a BA in Psychology from University of Rochester, with a minor in Music. I have studied piano under the tutelage of Daniela Mineva, Clara Yang, and Jacob Ertl at Eastman School of Music. My postgraduate training includes Kodály at New York University and Orff-Schulwerk with Danai Apostolidou Gagné, Judith Thomas, and Laura Koulish. I am also trained in holistic sound therapy at The Integrative Sound & Music Institute at the New York The Open Center and mindfulness meditation at MNDFL.
Private piano lessons are tailored towards an individual's learning styles, needs, and goals. I work with students on active listening, coordination, kinesthetic skills, and spatial awareness. Lessons with the youngest children typically include sound exploration, singing songs, and reading stories that are engaging and interactive. Lessons with late beginners and adult learners can include music and songs adapted from popular genre. In addition to teaching music literacy, I work with students on strengthening articulation, developing an effective home practice, as well as techniques for the mental-emotional part of performance preparation.
I have taught at public schools, independent/ private schools, and community schools across NYC, including Brooklyn Conservatory of Music, City and Country School, The Calhoun School, The Cathedral School of St. John the Divine, ACT at the Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine, and P.S.184M Shuang Wen Dual Language School.
I am a native of Taiwan, fluent in Chinese and English.
If you’re considering signing up for piano lessons, I’d like to invite you for a FREE 15-minute Zoom/phone call to talk further about your piano and music experience and answer any questions you may have. Schedule your call at the link listed in my website section.
I looking forward to meeting you soon!
xo, Vivian
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Note:
*Piano lessons take place at my home studio in Astoria, Queens. The nearest train stations are Broadway (N,W) and Steinway (M,R). In-home private lessons at a client’s home are only provided in specific neighborhoods in Manhattan and Queens. DM me for inquiries.
*Students are required to wear a mask during lessons. My current availability is limited as I am only serving a small number of students in-person this year.