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Christine Octaviani
Field(s) of study : Piano, Aural & Theory
Born : Indonesia
Degrees : Bachelor of Chemical Engineering, NUS (Singapore); Masters of Music Performance, Trinity College of Music (London); Fellow of the Royal Schools of Music (Distinction); Fellowship Diploma in Piano, Trinity College London; Fellowship Diploma in Piano, London College of Music; Licentiate in Music Theory (Distinction)
Biography : Ms Christine Octaviani was born in Jakarta, Indonesia. She holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical Engineering) degree from National University of Singapore and a Master in Music Performance (Piano) from Trinity Laban Conservatory of Music and Dance. Her teachers at Trinity Laban include Elena Riu, the late Simon Young and Margaret Fingerhut. Her interest in academics led her to obtain a distinction in the L(Mus)TCL diploma for music theory. In the following years, she gained the FLCM and her research paper, Understanding Beethoven: His Maladies and Creative Genius, led her to attain a distinction for the FRSM.
As a pianist, Ms Christine has collaborated with instrumentalists for examinations and recitals. Recently she appeared with Joyeux Sinfonietta, performing Poulenc’s Piano Concerto at the Victoria Concert Hall (Singapore). She was also invited as a guest artist for the 11th Flute Festival in Singapore. In her younger days, Ms Christine was a percussionist with the Raffles Girls’ School and Raffles Junior College Symphonic Bands. She was also an active member of the National University of Singapore Piano Ensemble, frequently appearing in piano duo recitals.
Ms Christine is formerly the head of piano department at Mandeville Conservatory of Music, where she was responsible for developing music curricula for the Creative Musicianship Classes. She dedicates much of her time to teaching; her students have had successes in music examinations, competitions and college auditions.
She is an associate professor with Joyeux Music International, regularly adjudicating music festivals and conducting masterclasses. She is also an examiner with ABRSM and was recently invited to co-present in the Piano 2025-26 Syllabus Seminar.
Faculty : Faculty since September 2011.
Grace Sia
Born: Malaysia
Field(s) of study: Piano, Aural Training, Theory
Degrees: Bachelor of Music, University of Melbourne (Australia)
Biography: Has more than 15 years of teaching experience in Malaysia and Singapore. A popular and passionate teacher, highly effective as a masterclass clinician. Trainer of several high-scorer pianists in the ABRSM examinations.
Faculty: Faculty since 2000.
Charisma Ong
Field(s) of study : Piano, Aural
Born : Malaysia
Degrees : Diploma, ABRSM, Music Performance (Piano)
Biography : Ms Charisma started her music journey at the age of 9 and is currently pursuing her Trinity’s Licentiate (LTCL) music performance diploma in Malaysia. After completing her O levels, Ms Charisma decided to foray into teaching as a career and she has taught numerous students in music schools in Singapore. During her teaching career, she has prepared her students for the ABRSM exams and the results garnered by her students were mainly merits and distinctions. With a keen sense to upgrade her credentials, Ms Charisma decided to further her studies in music.
During her college and university days, Ms Charisma was engaged as a part time music educator in Forest of Stars Demiquaver based in Johor Bahru where her instruction was to nurture young children. The module that she specialized in at that music school was music and movement where they utilized the use of percussion instruments.
Upon graduating, she travelled across the border to teach in Singapore and continue her teaching career here. Ms Charisma truly enjoys working with young children and teenagers as most of her students are young students with the youngest being 3 years old. She deploys various teaching techniques to different age groups to facilitate swift understanding of music concepts.
Apart from her teaching commitments, Ms Charisma has been active in giving back to the community by engaging in community service where she and her team share the joy of music with the patients of Ren Ci Hospital and impart the delight of music with autistic children in an autistic school in Singapore.
Faculty : Faculty since May 2016
Mary Tran
Field(s) of study : Piano Solo, Duet & Chamber Music
Born : Vietnam
Degrees : Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance, NUS – Full scholarship by Keppel Corporation
Biography : Ms. Mary teaches individual student from the age of 5 with fun and creative methods while building a strong musical fundamentals.
Achievements :
- International Music Instructor Champion Award – Hong Kong Global Arts, Sports and Culture Association (2023)
- Favourite Music Teacher Award – MediaCorp Symphony 924 Contest (2022)
Faculty : Faculty since 2011
Stefan Popov
Field(s) of study : Piano, Aural
Born : Bulgaria
Degrees : Masters of Music, State Academy of Music, Pancho Vladigerov (Bulgaria)
Biography : Mr Stefan Popov has a Masters degree in Piano Performance from “Pancho Vladigerov Academy of Music” Sofia, Bulgaria and also graduated with a Bachelor of Sound Engineering. During his studies he was exposed to other instruments like flute and digital piano. As a soloist and accompanist he has performed at numerous recitals and competitions in Bulgaria, Germany and Norway and has recorded for the Bulgarian national radio and television.
Mr Stefan has more than 15 years of teaching experience, devoting his time in teaching piano, aural and theory. Apart from being sought after as our students’ accompanist, he is also active on the chamber stage having performed at various venues in Singapore. Through the years, his students have achieved high results taking graded and diploma exams. They are currently active in participating at schools concerts as soloists and accompanists as well. Having taught students of various age groups, Stefan believes that everyone has the potential to discover the joy of music. He teaching style stands on an individual approach to every student based on patience, motivation and pursuing the goals set. Apart from his job, Mr Stefan likes outdoor activities like swimming, cycling and trekking.
Faculty : Faculty since 2003
Tran Trung Thuan, Tim
Field(s) of study : Piano, Aural, Theory
Born : Vietnam
Degrees : Bachelor of Music Composition, Ho Chi Minh City Conservatory
Biography : An established music composer and arranger, Tim worked extensively in the entertainment industry in Vietnam before moving to Singapore in 2011 to continue his music career and teach music lessons to students. With a warm and approachable teaching style, he is popular among students who appreciate his patience and creativity. Tim is known for his patient and innovative teaching methods. His students have performed exceptionally well in their ABRSM theory, practical exams, and performance grades under his guidance, achieving high scores. Tim’s teaching extends beyond playing pieces and technique; he also shares interesting information about composers’ backgrounds to enhance students’ knowledge. This approach helps students understand music better and play with more feeling. Besides playing the exam pieces, he also introduces them to a diverse repertoire in different genres such as pop and jazz music. Additionally, Mr. Tim helps prepare and train students for SOTA DSA (Creative Track, Composition) and MEP etc. Mr. Tim creates a positive learning environment where students can flourish and deepen their understanding of music. Mr. Tim creates a positive learning environment where students can flourish and deepen their understanding of music.
Faculty : Faculty since August 2011
Eva Chen Yu-Fei
Field(s) of study: Piano, Theory
Degrees: Master degree of Music in Piano Performance at Koninklijk Conservatorium Brussel, Belgium; Bachelor of Music, National Taipei University of Education, Taiwan
Biography: Ms Eva Chen Yu-Fei is a Taiwanese pianist who has several teaching and performing experiences. She received her Master of Music in piano performance from Koninklijk Conservatorium Brussel, Belgium. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in piano performance and composition from National Taipei University of Education.
In the pursuit of her passion, Ms Eva decides to enrich her knowledge by enrolling in various masterclasses conducted by well-known pianists, such as Markus Groh, Vesna Prodrug, Oxana Yablonskaya, Nelson Delle-vigne Fabbri, and Philippe Entremont. As a pianist and piano accompanist, she has had the privilege of performing at prestigious music festivals, concerts in Europe. She joined the fine art & music program and performed at Bozar. Before the Covid epidemic, she gave a series of live chamber music concerts with Trumpet player- Irene Monari at Klarafestival Box in 2020.
In 2019, Ms Eva Chen Yu- Fei was awarded a scholarship to be an exchange student at the Sibelius Academy, University of the Arts Helsinki, Finland.
With 20 years of experience in music, Ms Eva Chen Yu-Fei is good at sight- reading, strong analyse skills, and music theory. She has dedicated herself to her music career.
Faculty : Faculty since April 2024
Genesis Teh
Field(s) of study : Piano, Music Theory
Born : Malaysia
Degrees : BContempMus (Hons), UCSI University, Malaysia
Biography : Mr. Genesis started his musical pathways at the age of 7 and graduated with a Bachelor of Contemporary Music (Hons.) in UCSI University, Malaysia. While studying, he was under the tutelage of the head of contemporary music program, Mr. Justin Lim.
Given his great passion for music, Mr. Genesis has been active in the music performing scene both in Singapore and Malaysia. Currently the appointed keyboardist for local radio station 96.3 Hao FM, he has been performing in numerous events and occasions both in a band settings and as a solo pianist (pop and jazz music).
With his knowledge and interest in music arrangement, he has worked with the founder of Inner Voice Productions, Mr. Ken Hor for several short films. He has also worked with different jingle studios (2PM Studio, Canang Studio), writing and composing music for TV commercials.
Having his own YouTube channel, Mr. Genesis has worked alongside with singer Cecilia to produce music for thousands of audience. His music is mainly inclined towards jazz, pop, rock, EDM etc.
Mr. Genesis has been teaching since 2014 and has an extensive experience working with students of all ages from 4-50, in both classical and contemporary music. He has prepared students for music exams in ABRSM and Trinity board, and has consistently produced good results for his students scoring mostly distinctions and merits. He enjoys working with young children, to inspire and nurture their interest in music, and also working with teenagers and young adults, to introduce a different side of music to his students.
Mr. Genesis believes that each student has their own ways of learning. Thus, he personalizes his teaching method to suit his students’ learning capabilities to produce best results. He also believes that music has no age limit; it’s never too late for each person to start their musical journey as long as they have the interest.
Mr. Genesis teaches both classical and contemporary music, music theory, contemporary compositions and performances.
Faculty : Faculty since December 2015
Jessica Lu
Field(s) of study : Sanxian
Born : China
Degrees : Bachelor Degree in Performing Arts (Sanxian), China Conservatory of Music
Biography : Born in Xi An. Jessica was accepted into Shanghai Conservatory of Music, majored in Sanxian at the age of 12 under the tutelage of Professor Zhang Nian Bing and was successfully accepted by China Conservatory of Music to do her Bachelor Degree in Performing Arts (Sanxian) 1995 – 1999 under the tutelage of Professor Zhao Cheng Wei.
She had her premier performance at Shanghai Concert Hall in 1994 and was awarded the Best Performer Award in the International Chinese Music Competition in 1995.
Jessica was signed as an Artist under Andrew Lum & New Asia (Singapore) 2000 – 2004 and released an album “Matter of Time”. New Asia & Flowing in the Seasons of the album recorded by Jessica was awarded Top 10 in USA International Songwriting Competition and Best World Music Award in Composers’ Association of Singapore (COMPASS). She was also actively involved in recordings internationally from Japan “This Way to Nike Beautiful” (Nike Asia) by NOKKO & GO, “Man Ray” by Milan Music (France) and “Liquid Sounds Vol.1” by Free Form Records (Germany). They were all awarded for “Best World Music Award”.
With her talents, she is known in the music industry for versatility in performing different genres of music; from classical, world music to pop music. In 2008, Warners Music released her first album “Beauty of Sanxian” with an overwhelming response.
Jessica is not only active in the local performing scene, over the years she often represents Singapore performing at international festivals all around the world to France, Japan, Scotland and USA in festivals including WOMAD, VOLVO World Music Festival, MIDEM, Chicago Jazz Music Festival, Japan Asia Music Market, Edinburgh International Music Festival.
She has also collaborated and performed with renowned musicians around the world like Phillippe Siasse (NYC), NOKKO & GO (Japan), Goh Hotoda (NYC/Japan), Guo Yazhi (Hong Kong), Mark Chan (Singapore), Nokko Rebecca (Japan) and V Selvaganesh of Remembering Shakti (India).
In 2020, Jessica was the first Singaporean to hold a 2-night Sanxian concert at the Esplanade as part of Huayi Chinese Festival of Arts.
Jessica quotes “I’ll not stop sharing the beautiful sound of Sanxian to the world and hope everyone who listens to my music will be in love with the sound of Sanxian”.
Faculty : Faculty since July 2020
Ken Tan
Field(s) of study: Double Bass, Guitar
Born: Singapore
Degrees: Diploma, Trinity College of Music, London (UK)
Biography: Awarded the first Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO) scholarship to pursue music studies in London from 1979-1982. Upon return to Singapore, was member of the SSO till 2005. Taught in National University of Singapore for more than 10 years.
Faculty: Founder & Director since inception
Amir Khalid
Field(s) of study: Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Drums
Born: Singapore
Degree: Grade 8 Guitar – Trinity College London
Biography: Despite picking up the guitar at a late age of 12 years old, Mr Amir diligently self taught himself the acoustic guitar playing mainly pop and rock songs. Given his deep rooted interest in the instrument, he eventually upgraded to playing the electric guitar at the age of 15.
Mr Amir graduated to learning the guitar at Yamaha music during his NS years under the tutelage of his teacher, Mr Rosli Mansoor who is now touted as one of the best guitarist in Singapore.
In his formative working career, Mr Amir gained experience with music in working in a major musical instruments franchise – SWEE LEE for a couple of years where he interacted with professional musicians in Asia.
Mr Amir’s calling to teach came later in life when he encountered interested parties who requested to take up guitar lessons with him. As a result of this, he changed his line of work from sales to teaching. His initial job as a music teacher started off with him becoming a private teacher for a few years where he was also part of a music school Music Ensemble. He was later employed in an international school as an enrichment guitar teacher.
To back up his teaching venture, Mr Amir decided to sit for the ABRSM Grade 5 classic guitar exam in which he passed. With this obtained credential, Mr Amir was promoted to work on a different post in the international school as an Instrumental teacher in the High School department where he taught for 15 years.
Throughout the years, Mr Amir had immeasurable experience teaching students ranging from 4 years old to 65 years old, both in a group setting of 15 students and also individually where the students had different goals setting. Mr Amir also actively organized concerts for his students outside school premises in YMS every year.
To experience a different set of challenges, starting from 2015, Mr Amir moved from the international school to private institutions which cater to more exam oriented students. In these institutions, Mr Amir sent his students for the ABRSM exams where they achieved merit and distinction for their results. He also has students who learn the guitar for leisure.
Being someone who constantly upgrades his skills, he has self taught himself to learn the drums. In his free time, Mr Amir actively composes his own original instrumental tracks. His original compositions can he purchased online and he has presently amassed a gathering of 55 fans worldwide who loves his music.
“I can’t separate music in my life. It has always been a constant facet in my life. Music is a universal language without words which the whole world understands” – Amir Khalid
Faculty: Faculty since March 2018
Samuel Chee
Field(s) of study : Electric Guitar, Acoustic fingerstyle and pop guitar, Jazz guitar, Classical guitar, Bass guitar, Ukulele
Born : Singapore
Degrees : Bachelor (with honors) of Performing Arts (Music), Lasalle College of the Arts
Biography : Beginning as a regular multi-instrumentalist performer in the Singapore gigging scene, teacher Sam has been teaching and coaching music learners since 2006. A former sessionist, he specializes in speed learning and performance training, and is passionate about nurturing students to freely and meaningfully express themselves through their choice of instruments.
A fun, lively, and responsive teacher, Sam appreciates every student and takes time to know them. An alumni of the Singapore Gifted Education Programme, he combines both intellectual and emotional approaches, and has repertoires of teaching styles and syllabuses adaptable to every student’s unique needs, character and temperament.
With the popularity of social media and the opportunities and career options it brings for modern musicians, Sam is currently working with existing students to grow and establish their YouTube channels.
Faculty : Faculty since May 2011
Amir Khalid
Field(s) of study: Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Drums
Born: Singapore
Degree: Grade 8 Guitar – Trinity College London
Biography: Despite picking up the guitar at a late age of 12 years old, Mr Amir diligently self taught himself the acoustic guitar playing mainly pop and rock songs. Given his deep rooted interest in the instrument, he eventually upgraded to playing the electric guitar at the age of 15.
Mr Amir graduated to learning the guitar at Yamaha music during his NS years under the tutelage of his teacher, Mr Rosli Mansoor who is now touted as one of the best guitarist in Singapore.
In his formative working career, Mr Amir gained experience with music in working in a major musical instruments franchise – SWEE LEE for a couple of years where he interacted with professional musicians in Asia.
Mr Amir’s calling to teach came later in life when he encountered interested parties who requested to take up guitar lessons with him. As a result of this, he changed his line of work from sales to teaching. His initial job as a music teacher started off with him becoming a private teacher for a few years where he was also part of a music school Music Ensemble. He was later employed in an international school as an enrichment guitar teacher.
To back up his teaching venture, Mr Amir decided to sit for the ABRSM Grade 5 classic guitar exam in which he passed. With this obtained credential, Mr Amir was promoted to work on a different post in the international school as an Instrumental teacher in the High School department where he taught for 15 years.
Throughout the years, Mr Amir had immeasurable experience teaching students ranging from 4 years old to 65 years old, both in a group setting of 15 students and also individually where the students had different goals setting. Mr Amir also actively organized concerts for his students outside school premises in YMS every year.
To experience a different set of challenges, starting from 2015, Mr Amir moved from the international school to private institutions which cater to more exam oriented students. In these institutions, Mr Amir sent his students for the ABRSM exams where they achieved merit and distinction for their results. He also has students who learn the guitar for leisure.
Being someone who constantly upgrades his skills, he has self taught himself to learn the drums. In his free time, Mr Amir actively composes his own original instrumental tracks. His original compositions can he purchased online and he has presently amassed a gathering of 55 fans worldwide who loves his music.
“I can’t separate music in my life. It has always been a constant facet in my life. Music is a universal language without words which the whole world understands” – Amir Khalid
Faculty: Faculty since March 2018
Dianne Rivas
Field(s) of study : Piano
Born : The Philippines
Degrees : Bachelor in Music Education, University of the Philippines-Diliman
Biography : Ms Dianne is a licensed teacher specializing in early childhood development who uses renowned methodologies such as Kodaly, Dalcroze, Carabocone, Music Mind Games and various ecclectic methods. Ms. Dianne has a reputation for raising students who pass their ABRSM exams with flying colors. Not only is she passionate about teaching children, she instills good values and disciplines and stirs up love for music in her students.
Her group classes and masterclasses are thoroughly enjoyed by her students as she delivers a holistic approach in their overall learning experience. She embodies versatility and creativity being able to teach classical, jazz and pop music. With this, her improvisation techniques enrich song pieces that are palatable to the soul.
Alongside Ms. Dianne’s teaching excellence is her practical knowledge in music technology. Having composed songs, performed in concerts and co-produced music albums in Singapore and abroad, her expertise and insights are sought after by both secular and religious organizations. The use of technological applications also aids her in designing curriculum for digital learning.
Prior to joining Mandeville, Ms. Dianne was a musical directress in a network of Christian churches in Manila, a consultant and curriculum developer in music to international schools in Philippines. She also collaborated with different organizations in conducting music trainings, masterclasses and even musical plays. She is also an established composer and music arranger, and an author of contemporary music improvisation books circulated nationwide in Philippines. She has bagged awards in music performances, music composition, choral competition.
While she specializes in teaching young children, her students’ age ranges from 3 years old to mid 50s.
Faculty : Faculty since May 2011. Team Lead of Department for Piano Studies.
Christine Octaviani
Field(s) of study : Piano, Aural & Theory
Born : Indonesia
Degrees : Bachelor of Chemical Engineering, NUS (Singapore); Masters of Music Performance, Trinity College of Music (London); Fellow of the Royal Schools of Music (Distinction); Fellowship Diploma in Piano, Trinity College London; Fellowship Diploma in Piano, London College of Music; Licentiate in Music Theory (Distinction)
Biography : Ms Christine Octaviani was born in Jakarta, Indonesia. She holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical Engineering) degree from National University of Singapore and a Master in Music Performance (Piano) from Trinity Laban Conservatory of Music and Dance. Her teachers at Trinity Laban include Elena Riu, the late Simon Young and Margaret Fingerhut. Her interest in academics led her to obtain a distinction in the L(Mus)TCL diploma for music theory. In the following years, she gained the FLCM and her research paper, Understanding Beethoven: His Maladies and Creative Genius, led her to attain a distinction for the FRSM.
As a pianist, Ms Christine has collaborated with instrumentalists for examinations and recitals. Recently she appeared with Joyeux Sinfonietta, performing Poulenc’s Piano Concerto at the Victoria Concert Hall (Singapore). She was also invited as a guest artist for the 11th Flute Festival in Singapore. In her younger days, Ms Christine was a percussionist with the Raffles Girls’ School and Raffles Junior College Symphonic Bands. She was also an active member of the National University of Singapore Piano Ensemble, frequently appearing in piano duo recitals.
Ms Christine is formerly the head of piano department at Mandeville Conservatory of Music, where she was responsible for developing music curricula for the Creative Musicianship Classes. She dedicates much of her time to teaching; her students have had successes in music examinations, competitions and college auditions.
She is an associate professor with Joyeux Music International, regularly adjudicating music festivals and conducting masterclasses. She is also an examiner with ABRSM and was recently invited to co-present in the Piano 2025-26 Syllabus Seminar.
Faculty : Faculty since September 2011.
Grace Sia
Born: Malaysia
Field(s) of study: Piano, Aural Training, Theory
Degrees: Bachelor of Music, University of Melbourne (Australia)
Biography: Has more than 15 years of teaching experience in Malaysia and Singapore. A popular and passionate teacher, highly effective as a masterclass clinician. Trainer of several high-scorer pianists in the ABRSM examinations.
Faculty: Faculty since 2000.
Charisma Ong
Field(s) of study : Piano, Aural
Born : Malaysia
Degrees : Diploma, ABRSM, Music Performance (Piano)
Biography : Ms Charisma started her music journey at the age of 9 and is currently pursuing her Trinity’s Licentiate (LTCL) music performance diploma in Malaysia. After completing her O levels, Ms Charisma decided to foray into teaching as a career and she has taught numerous students in music schools in Singapore. During her teaching career, she has prepared her students for the ABRSM exams and the results garnered by her students were mainly merits and distinctions. With a keen sense to upgrade her credentials, Ms Charisma decided to further her studies in music.
During her college and university days, Ms Charisma was engaged as a part time music educator in Forest of Stars Demiquaver based in Johor Bahru where her instruction was to nurture young children. The module that she specialized in at that music school was music and movement where they utilized the use of percussion instruments.
Upon graduating, she travelled across the border to teach in Singapore and continue her teaching career here. Ms Charisma truly enjoys working with young children and teenagers as most of her students are young students with the youngest being 3 years old. She deploys various teaching techniques to different age groups to facilitate swift understanding of music concepts.
Apart from her teaching commitments, Ms Charisma has been active in giving back to the community by engaging in community service where she and her team share the joy of music with the patients of Ren Ci Hospital and impart the delight of music with autistic children in an autistic school in Singapore.
Faculty : Faculty since May 2016
Chiang Wei En
2Field(s) of study : Contemporary Piano
Born : Malaysia
Degrees : Bachelor Of Music (Hons.) Contemporary
Biography : Ms Chiang holds a Bachelor of Music (Hons) Contemporary from UCSI University, majoring in Piano. She has also received an award in Diploma of Associate from London College of Music. Her teaching journey kicked off by her teaching in Cempaka Performing Arts Company in Malaysia and subsequently migrating and relocating in Singapore.
The age range of her student varies from children to adults, however she is more in tune with coaching and working with kids, especially those in the Beginner levels. Ms Chiang emphasizes that a strong inlay of foundation for young beginners will reap beneficial rewards to their music journey in the future, thus her aim is to help strengthen the foundation of her students. She has also previously headed junior group classes in music appreciation.
Ms Chiang affirms that with the proper guidance and encouragement, any child can achieve greatness. Parental involvement is in line with this philosophy as it is essential in ensuring the child’s progress.
Given her care and support towards her students, Ms Chiang’s students have achieved 100% passing rate in their ABRSM examinations with a number of them attaining Distinction. These students had the opportunity to perform in the Conservatory’s prestigious High Scorers Concert. Ms Chiang also believes that performance exposure is advantageous, thus she has sent her students to perform in the Conservatory’s piano departmental recitals and the Biennial concert as well.
With the many events that music schools organize, Ms Chiang was nominated as the concert master in her previous employment where she had to plan and facilitate the school’s concerts. She currently uses this experience to help out in the various concerts held in Mandeville, where she is part of the concert committee.
On top of her teaching profession, Ms Chiang had a memorable experience performing in front of royalties in a Royal Banquet of Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia. When she is not teaching, Ms Chiang spends her time reading novels, creating arts & crafts and café hopping.
Faculty : Faculty since January 2017
Ivy Low
Field(s) of study : Piano and Theory
Born : Malaysia
Degrees : Bachelor of music, University Science Malaysia, Penang
Biography : An interest in playing the piano at a young age blossomed into a full-fledged tertiary education in music – Ms. Ivy obtained her Bachelor Degree (Hons) in Music Pedagogy and Performance from the University of Science Malaysia, Penang under the tutelage of Dr. Yumi Yoshioka in 2009. She also attained her Associateship diploma from Trinity College of London (ATCL) with distinction while studying in high school.
During the course of her studies, she has participated in the Jazz Band as a violinist. She was part of the strings members of Symphony Orchestra and Chorus in Penang State (PESSOC). She has performed extensively for various types of instrumental and vocal performance, recital, charity, and examination.
In the year 2015, she has attained Suzuki Piano Teacher Training Certification with Suzuki Association of the Americas (SAA) in Memphis and Columbus under the tutelage of Caroline Fraser and Mary Craig Powell.
As a music lover, she creates elaborate music arrangements for kids, bands, and choirs for ensemble performances.
Ms. Ivy has been a music instructor of piano, aural and theory since 2008 and has extensive experience working with students of all ages from 3-55, in both Malaysia and in Singapore. She has prepared students for music exams in ABRSM and has consistently produced good results for her students scoring mainly distinctions and merits. She enjoys working with all age groups. She has also worked as a volunteer in MINDS Organisations with special needs children in music enrichment programmes.
Ms. Ivy’s teaching approach encapsulates the Suzuki Philosophy in its entirety that every child can learn. She also firmly believes that music is a form of language that everyone can be taught to be fluent in. Therefore, by utilizing different methods and effective teaching, she is committed in bringing out the best from every student, inspire them and to help them blossom into well-rounded individuals.
She cultivates students’ curiosity and interest in learning by showing commitment to student learning as she believes that it can be an important factor in motivating students.
With such great dedication and love for music teaching, her biggest motivation and goal as a teacher is to enable students to realize a level of proficiency that will allow them to learn music independently, leading to lifelong appreciation and enjoyment in music-making.
Faculty : Faculty since August 2012
Lim Zhi Ru
Field(s) of study : Piano and Theory
Born : Malaysia
Degrees : Master’s in Piano Performance and Literature, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (USA), Licentiate Trinity College of London (LTCL with Distinction)
Biography : Ms Lim was a receiver of University Trust Scholarship and completed her Bachelor in Classical Music at University College Sedaya International (UCSI). Upon graduating, she became the valedictorian of Institute of Music. Later on, she received teaching assistantship from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign to pursue her Master in Piano Performance and Literature, under the tutelage of Prof. Timothy Ehlen. She received distinction results in both ATCL and LTCL diploma exams.
Ms Lim has performed extensively. She was part of Illinois Modern ensemble and has premiered new compositions under the baton of Stephen Taylor and Carlos Carrillo. She was also the selected pianist of KLPAC Orchestra. She has performed for countless venues, including MPO, KLPAC, SOTA, Roosevelt University. Her most interesting experience was to perform in a prison in Illinois. She has participated in numerous masterclasses, including with Dr. Julie Bees, Dr. Peter Amstutz, Dr. James Miltenberger, Graham Caskie and many more. She also joined Oversea Malaysian Winter Piano Academy which was held in the prestigious Yehudi Menuhin School.
As a music theory teaching assistant, she taught university students music theory and aural skills, receiving a teaching evaluation of 4.8/5. She has 3 years of piano teaching experience with students ranging from beginner to diploma. Her teaching emphasizes on good musicality and right technique. She believes that music is not just about playing the right notes.
Faculty : Faculty since September 2018.
Lynn Kang
Field(s) of study : Piano
Born : Malaysia
Degrees : Masters of Music, Royal College of Music (UK)
Biography : Born in Malaysia, Ms Lynn started playing the piano at the age of 5, and the flute when she was 8. She was a regular performer in local concerts and festivals, culminating in the Sarawak Young Musician of the Year Award 1999. In 2002, she furthered her musical education abroad by entering Wells Cathedral School as a special exhibitionist musician. Following that, Ms Lynn entered the Royal College of Music where she completed her undergraduate and postgraduate studies under John Byrne, Leon McCawley, Gordon Fergus-Thompson, and Simon Lepper. Competition successes include prizes in Sevenoaks Young Musician of the Year, Brant International Piano Competition, HSBC Classics Piano Competition (Malaysia), and the RCM English Song Prize (Accompanist Prize).
Ms Lynn has performed in many internationally renowned performance venues such as Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, St Martins-in-the-Fields, Steinway Hall (London), the Victoria and Albert Museum, and the Pump Rooms in Bath. She has also participated in many masterclasses, notably with the likes of Menahem Pressler, Leif Ove Andsnes, Bernard d’Ascoli, and Sergei Dorensky.
Ms Lynn has been teaching at Mandeville Conservatory of Music in Singapore since 2012. As a teacher, Ms Lynn supports her students by catering to their individual personalities and needs. With over 10 years experience teaching piano and theory to students of all levels, she has successfully prepared students for conservatoire entrance auditions, graded and diploma exams, as well as numerous local and international music festivals and competitions. Passionate about chamber music, Ms Lynn enjoys collaborating with other musicians, and encourages her students to play in duos and other larger ensembles. She is also an experienced accompanist, having played for young musicians in Singapore International String Conference, Singapore Flute Festival, diploma exams, masterclasses and music festivals.
Faculty : Faculty since January 2012
Mary Tran
Field(s) of study : Piano Solo, Duet & Chamber Music
Born : Vietnam
Degrees : Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance, NUS – Full scholarship by Keppel Corporation
Biography : Ms. Mary teaches individual student from the age of 5 with fun and creative methods while building a strong musical fundamentals.
Achievements :
- International Music Instructor Champion Award – Hong Kong Global Arts, Sports and Culture Association (2023)
- Favourite Music Teacher Award – MediaCorp Symphony 924 Contest (2022)
Faculty : Faculty since 2011
Stefan Popov
Field(s) of study : Piano, Aural
Born : Bulgaria
Degrees : Masters of Music, State Academy of Music, Pancho Vladigerov (Bulgaria)
Biography : Mr Stefan Popov has a Masters degree in Piano Performance from “Pancho Vladigerov Academy of Music” Sofia, Bulgaria and also graduated with a Bachelor of Sound Engineering. During his studies he was exposed to other instruments like flute and digital piano. As a soloist and accompanist he has performed at numerous recitals and competitions in Bulgaria, Germany and Norway and has recorded for the Bulgarian national radio and television.
Mr Stefan has more than 15 years of teaching experience, devoting his time in teaching piano, aural and theory. Apart from being sought after as our students’ accompanist, he is also active on the chamber stage having performed at various venues in Singapore. Through the years, his students have achieved high results taking graded and diploma exams. They are currently active in participating at schools concerts as soloists and accompanists as well. Having taught students of various age groups, Stefan believes that everyone has the potential to discover the joy of music. He teaching style stands on an individual approach to every student based on patience, motivation and pursuing the goals set. Apart from his job, Mr Stefan likes outdoor activities like swimming, cycling and trekking.
Faculty : Faculty since 2003
Tran Trung Thuan, Tim
Field(s) of study : Piano, Aural, Theory
Born : Vietnam
Degrees : Bachelor of Music Composition, Ho Chi Minh City Conservatory
Biography : An established music composer and arranger, Tim worked extensively in the entertainment industry in Vietnam before moving to Singapore in 2011 to continue his music career and teach music lessons to students. With a warm and approachable teaching style, he is popular among students who appreciate his patience and creativity. Tim is known for his patient and innovative teaching methods. His students have performed exceptionally well in their ABRSM theory, practical exams, and performance grades under his guidance, achieving high scores. Tim’s teaching extends beyond playing pieces and technique; he also shares interesting information about composers’ backgrounds to enhance students’ knowledge. This approach helps students understand music better and play with more feeling. Besides playing the exam pieces, he also introduces them to a diverse repertoire in different genres such as pop and jazz music. Additionally, Mr. Tim helps prepare and train students for SOTA DSA (Creative Track, Composition) and MEP etc. Mr. Tim creates a positive learning environment where students can flourish and deepen their understanding of music. Mr. Tim creates a positive learning environment where students can flourish and deepen their understanding of music.
Faculty : Faculty since August 2011
Chng Xin Bei
Field(s) of study : Piano
Born : Malaysia
Degrees : Bachelor of Classical Music, UCSI University Institute of Music
Biography : Ms Chng Xin Bei received her Foundation degree at LASALLE College of Music and her Bachelor of Classical Music (Hons.) in Classical Piano at UCSI University (Malaysia) where she studied under the tutelage of Ms. Jaz Tan Siaw Pei who was formerly the Head of Classical Music Degree Program.
Ms. Chng has been working with children and young adults for 8 years since she started her career working as a part-time piano teacher during her years at university. Since then, she had worked as a primary music teacher at Tenby International School in Malaysia where she devised a new Primary music syllabus for the school. She then travelled to Toronto, Canada, where she taught after-school keyboard classes to young children in schools under the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) and also accompanied musical performances at a summer camp. She is also an avid performer, both as a soloist and in an ensemble. Her past performances had brought her to countries such as China, Korea, Canada and Malaysia. Ms. Chng believes that music is to be enjoyed in all forms as she is an active member in award-winning choirs for over a decade where she has had a chance to participate in choral festivals and competitions all over the world. It was also then that she had a chance to perform at major events such as TEDx and various other music festivals. She was also privileged to perform with the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) under the baton of Maestro Benjamin Zander, who is currently the musical director of the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra.
Ms. Chng has proved to be a passionate and motivated teacher as her students have mostly excelled in their ABRSM theory and practical exams under her guidance, achieving merits and distinctions. Her methods of teaching not only solely focus on the technicality of playing, but also provides insightful information that is relevant to their pieces in regards to the composer’s historical background. That way, students would not only be able to play the pieces accurately but would also have the ability to bring the pieces to life.
Faculty : Faculty since Aug 2021
Eliza Kwok
Field(s) of study: Piano, Theory, Aural
Born: Singapore
Degrees: LTCL in Piano Performance, Royal College of Music, London, LLCM in Piano Performance, Royal College of Music, London
Biography: Ms Eliza studied piano with Mr. Angus Morrison at the Royal College of Music in London.
Ms. Eliza has been actively involved in both teaching and performing for many years. She has accompanied vocalists, violinists, and flutists in concerts both locally and in neighboring regions. Throughout her extensive career, she has taught at music schools such as Yamaha Music School and the Methodist School of Music. Additionally, she served as the pianist for Wesley Methodist Church for 20 years.
With over 40 years of experience, Ms. Eliza has been conducting piano, aural, and theory classes, sharing her expertise and passion for music with her students.
She has successfully prepared students for music exams in ABRSM and Trinity boards, consistently achieving excellent results for her students. Her dedication to their success is evident in their achievements.
As a teacher, Ms. Eliza is known for her patience and empathy, believing that music is a lifelong journey to be treasured and enjoyed. She instills this philosophy in her students, nurturing a love for music that extends beyond the classroom.
Ms. Eliza’s teaching prowess extends to students of all ages, starting from as young as 4 years old. Her patient and nurturing approach ensures that each student receives personalized attention and guidance tailored to their specific needs.
With her unique teaching methods and unwavering dedication, Ms. Eliza cultivates a supportive and enriching learning environment where students thrive and develop a profound appreciation for music. Her passion for teaching shines through in every lesson, inspiring her students to unlock their full potential and embrace the joy of music.
Faculty: Faculty since January 2020
Eva Chen Yu-Fei
Field(s) of study: Piano, Theory
Degrees: Master degree of Music in Piano Performance at Koninklijk Conservatorium Brussel, Belgium; Bachelor of Music, National Taipei University of Education, Taiwan
Biography: Ms Eva Chen Yu-Fei is a Taiwanese pianist who has several teaching and performing experiences. She received her Master of Music in piano performance from Koninklijk Conservatorium Brussel, Belgium. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in piano performance and composition from National Taipei University of Education.
In the pursuit of her passion, Ms Eva decides to enrich her knowledge by enrolling in various masterclasses conducted by well-known pianists, such as Markus Groh, Vesna Prodrug, Oxana Yablonskaya, Nelson Delle-vigne Fabbri, and Philippe Entremont. As a pianist and piano accompanist, she has had the privilege of performing at prestigious music festivals, concerts in Europe. She joined the fine art & music program and performed at Bozar. Before the Covid epidemic, she gave a series of live chamber music concerts with Trumpet player- Irene Monari at Klarafestival Box in 2020.
In 2019, Ms Eva Chen Yu- Fei was awarded a scholarship to be an exchange student at the Sibelius Academy, University of the Arts Helsinki, Finland.
With 20 years of experience in music, Ms Eva Chen Yu-Fei is good at sight- reading, strong analyse skills, and music theory. She has dedicated herself to her music career.
Faculty : Faculty since April 2024
Fanny Chang Wen-Huei
Field(s) of study: Piano
Degrees: Doctor of Musical Arts, Arizona State University; Master of Music, University of Wyoming; Bachelor of Music, National Taipei University of Education
Biography: Ms Fanny received her Doctor of Musical Arts in piano performance from Arizona State University. She also holds a Master’s degree in piano performance from the University of Wyoming, and a Bachelor’s degree in piano performance from National Taipei University of Education.
Ms Fanny has gained invaluable experience as both a teacher and performer during her studies at school. While studying at UW, she received a full scholarship and served as a graduate assistant, working with wind symphony, orchestra, string ensembles, and soloists. She continued working as a collaborative pianist at the same school after graduation. During her studies at ASU, Ms Fanny was a teaching assistant offering class piano for beginners and music majors. She also worked as a piano instructor at TakeLessons.com. Her doctoral dissertation, titled ‘Four Piano Works of Ming-Hsiu Yen,’ serves as an accessible reference for pianists interested in Yen’s compositions and the repertoire of contemporary Taiwanese piano music. The paper was published in ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global.
As a pianist, Ms Fanny has had the privilege of performing at prestigious music festivals, concerts, and competitions in the USA, Europe, and Taiwan. She was the winner of the MTNA Wyoming State Piano Competition (USA) and the YAMAHA National Piano Competition (Taiwan). Additionally, she was selected to perform at the Honor Convocation at the UW recital hall and was invited to participate in the ASU exchange program with the Conservatoire National de Grenoble. Her journey has also involved performances in masterclasses with renowned pianists such as Yekwon Sunwoo, Ching-Yun Hu, Neil Rutman, France Clidat, Read Gainsford, and Fernando Puchol.
In recent years, Ms Fanny has had several students who achieved distinction in their ABRSM or Trinity piano examinations. One of her students was the winner of the 2022 New York Golden Classical Music Awards International Competition and was invited to perform at Carnegie Hall. Her commitment to teaching excellence has been recognized through teacher certificates of recognition from SRIMF Competition, Music Singapore International Piano and Violin Competition, and New York Golden Classical Music Awards International Competition.
Faculty : Faculty since July 2023
Genesis Teh
Field(s) of study : Piano, Music Theory
Born : Malaysia
Degrees : BContempMus (Hons), UCSI University, Malaysia
Biography : Mr. Genesis started his musical pathways at the age of 7 and graduated with a Bachelor of Contemporary Music (Hons.) in UCSI University, Malaysia. While studying, he was under the tutelage of the head of contemporary music program, Mr. Justin Lim.
Given his great passion for music, Mr. Genesis has been active in the music performing scene both in Singapore and Malaysia. Currently the appointed keyboardist for local radio station 96.3 Hao FM, he has been performing in numerous events and occasions both in a band settings and as a solo pianist (pop and jazz music).
With his knowledge and interest in music arrangement, he has worked with the founder of Inner Voice Productions, Mr. Ken Hor for several short films. He has also worked with different jingle studios (2PM Studio, Canang Studio), writing and composing music for TV commercials.
Having his own YouTube channel, Mr. Genesis has worked alongside with singer Cecilia to produce music for thousands of audience. His music is mainly inclined towards jazz, pop, rock, EDM etc.
Mr. Genesis has been teaching since 2014 and has an extensive experience working with students of all ages from 4-50, in both classical and contemporary music. He has prepared students for music exams in ABRSM and Trinity board, and has consistently produced good results for his students scoring mostly distinctions and merits. He enjoys working with young children, to inspire and nurture their interest in music, and also working with teenagers and young adults, to introduce a different side of music to his students.
Mr. Genesis believes that each student has their own ways of learning. Thus, he personalizes his teaching method to suit his students’ learning capabilities to produce best results. He also believes that music has no age limit; it’s never too late for each person to start their musical journey as long as they have the interest.
Mr. Genesis teaches both classical and contemporary music, music theory, contemporary compositions and performances.
Faculty : Faculty since December 2015
Su Chia-Hui
Field(s) of study : Piano
Born : Taiwan
Degrees : Doctorate degree of Music in Piano performance, Conservatorio di Musica Luca Marenzio di Brescia, Italy
Biography : Chia-Hui Su is a Taiwanese pianist who has many teaching and performing experiences all over Asia and Europe. She has a bachelor’s degree in science and music. She won the first prize in the Japan Classical Music Competition in 2011, the third prize in the Taiwan music competition in 2012, and the last round qualifier of the Tainan government music competition in 2014. During 2013 – 2015, she continued studying for her Master degree in Music at National Chiayi University, and was a Teaching Assistant of the musical solfeggio course during her study; she was also a Teaching Assistant and piano accompanist in the course “Voice of Music Training” at the National Chiayi University.
She received her Diploma Accademia di Musica di Secondo Livello (equivalent to Doctorate degree) in Piano Performance from Conservatorio di Musica “Luca Marenzio” di Brescia in Italy, under many great pianists’ guidance: Ruggero Ruocco, Daniela Piovani, Umberto Benedetti Michelangeli and Giampaolo Stuani. At the same time, she studied the accompaniment practice and choral conducting with Prof. Marco Ghiglione.
During her study in Italy, she had participated in numerous concerts: Concert review of the students of the Conservatory, 2016 Milano Piano City, 2017 “Mille Miglia” in Brescia at the Auditorium San Barnaba, “2017 Marenzio Plays” in the Musical Academy-Mind Literary Café, 2017 and 2018 Brescia Music Festival at Piazza Benedetti Michelangeli, both as a solo pianist and accompanist.
She completed her doctoral thesis in November 2018, “Debussy between Impressionism and Symbolism: Suite Bergamasque in Formal, Thematic and Harmonic Analysis”, conducted by the Italian pianist and composer, Prof. Alessandro Lucchetti, and graduated with a high score to receive the Highest Piano Performance Diploma.
She was invited by NTUE to open an online lecture, “Science x Music: Open your International Date Line / Multidisciplinary learning experience sharing”, to share and exchange ideas with college students in May 2020. In the same year, she also participated in the edx Course, “Beethoven’s 9th Symphony and the 19th Century Orchestra”, held by Harvard University, under Prof. Thomas Forrest Kelly. And she was honored to be invited to participate in the 2020 Taiwan National Day activities hosted by the Taipei Representative Office in Singapore and Taipei Business Association In Singapore. Lately she finished the edX Course, “Artistic Research in Music”, held by KU LEUVEN University & Orpheus Institute in October 2021.
Her performance and teaching experience is all over Asia and Europe: Taipei, Tainan, Chiayi, Singapore, Milan, Brescia, Paris, etc.
Faculty : August 2022
Teresa Gervasio
3Field(s) of study : Piano
Born : Philippines
Degrees : Diploma for Creative and Performing Arts, University of the Philippines
Biography : A teacher of smiles and boundless joy, Ms Teresa began her foray into music at the age of 7 years old and graduated with a Diploma for Creative & Performing Arts in the University of the Philippines Conservatory of Music in 1988. In 2014, she achieved a Grade 8 Piano ABRSM with Distinction in Singapore.
After her graduation, she continued to study Music Education and proceeded to teaching young children in her alma mater as part of the conservatory’s extension programme. The teaching stint set the tone as a music educator for the rest of her career, having understood the importance of the different emotional developmental stages of children in order to fit the right approach.
Apart from having taught students of a wide age range, Ms Teresa has extensive experience teaching children with special needs, particularly down syndrome and autism. In fact, she had an opportunity to coach a child with autism to take a grade 3 piano exam. She firmly believes that every child, regardless of any physical or mental disabilities, has the right to learn any musical instrument. This belief translates to teaching full of compassion and love for her students.
This tenderness has also translated in her students’ piano exam results, where many of them scored merits and distinctions under her tutelage. Some of these students have also achieved Gold in the Singapore Youth Festival. Furthermore, she has experience as a piano accompanist in numerous events: the National Music Competition for Young Artists (NAMCYA) Festival of Winners (choral category), and the Trinity Exam for pupils playing other instruments.
In 2009, Ms Teresa was featured in the Singapore Parent magazine, Young Parents, where she shared her experience of raising three boys and its positive impact in molding her as an educator for other children.
Outside of music education, she has also been regularly volunteering as a pianist for numerous church choirs in the last 30 years, first in the Philippines then in Singapore.
A highly enthusiastic and cheerful individual, Ms Teresa also enjoys taking morning walks and cooking healthy meals for her family at home when she is not at the piano inspiring children.
Faculty : Faculty since November 2013
Ken Tan
Field(s) of study: Double Bass, Guitar
Born: Singapore
Degrees: Diploma, Trinity College of Music, London (UK)
Biography: Awarded the first Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO) scholarship to pursue music studies in London from 1979-1982. Upon return to Singapore, was member of the SSO till 2005. Taught in National University of Singapore for more than 10 years.
Faculty: Founder & Director since inception
Yap Shu Mei
Field(s) of study: Violin, Violin Group
Born: Malaysia
Degrees: Bachelor of Music, New England Conservatory (Boston, USA); Post-Graduate Diploma, Trinity College of Music (London)
Biography: As an advocate of early childhood education, Ms Yap has nurtured students as young as 6 months old in a group class setting. Over her vast 30 years teaching experience, she has taught students of all levels varying from toddlers to adults with her target group being the 6 months – 15 years spectrum.
98% of students under her tutelage achieved Distinction in the ABRSM examinations and were winners in American Prodige, Zhongsin International Music Competition, Golden Classical Awards International Competition, Singapore Performers’ Festival, and Mandeville Music Festival Competition. Some of her students have even become professional musicians and concert artists in the field.
Ms Yap recounts that the success stories of her students is due to her teaching philosophy by believing that “Nurturing the love of music is the ultimate goal of music education”.
In addition to her teaching commitments, Ms Yap is a member of Resound Chamber Orchestra, performing as a soloist and in small ensembles in differing genres for corporate, charity and private events. She is also the Program Director of Singapore International String Conference and was a Speaker at Raffles Music Festival.
She has since produced two CD albums of original compositions and is coming up with a series of three books for young beginner violinists with arrangements and original compositions of music accompaniment tracks.
In her free time, Ms Yap keeps an active lifestyle by taking nature walks, going on cycling excursions and also relaxing whilst being one with nature in her diving trips.
Faculty: Founder & Director since inception12
Yap Qin
Field(s) of study: Violin
Born : Malaysia
Degrees: Bachelor of Music (Honours), NAFA/Royal College of Music (UK / Singapore); Diploma in Music, Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts
Biography: Growing up in a musical family, Yap Qin started learning violin and piano at the age of 3 with both of her parents as musicians; father, a conductor and a violinist and mother, a pianist.
She is an active player who constantly found herself performing on stage not only as a soloist, chamber musician and an orchestra player. Starting at a young age of 7, she was an avid member of Jesselton Philharmonic Orchestra (JPO) and became co-concertmaster from 2014-2017. Through JPO, she had performed for the Tip of Borneo Concert, Malaysia-Korea Opera Gala Friendship Concert, JPO Annual Concerts and JPO Chamber Music Concert Series.
In the year 2010-2016, she was selected to join the program Permata Seni Muzik Orchestra for the musically gifted children organized by Malaysia’s former first lady. The program enabled her the opportunity to perform in different countries such as Dubai, Kazakhstan, Germany, and Beijing. She was also selected to be the concertmaster from 2015 to 2016. Throughout the program, she was packed with different aspects of music like violin techniques, playing as soloist together with the orchestra and leading in chamber and orchestra. Furthermore, the program has given her the chance to perform to some of the prominent figures like Prime Ministers, Kings, Queens and Presidents of different countries during their official visit to Malaysia.
As a fresh graduate from NAFAxRCM, she was a recipient of Lucien Wang Scholarship and NAFA Merit Awards. In 2020, she was awarded with a Dean’s List. On top of that, she has been leading the NAFA Orchestra as a concertmaster from 2020 to 2023 under the baton of Mr. Lim Yau.
Faculty : Faculty since October 2023. Team Lead of Department for Violin Studies.
Le Hoang Hai Van
Field(s) of study: Violin, Violin Group
Born: Vietnam
Degrees: Bachelor of Music, Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music
Biography: A member of the Ho Chi Minh Symphony Orchestra and Yong Siew Toh Symphony Orchestra. Active member of the Singapore Festival Orchestra and Philharmonic Orchestra. Specialized in teaching young children.
Faculty: Faculty since September 2007
Natalia Kurganova
Field(s) of study: Violin, Violin Group
Born: Russia
Degrees: Master Degree in Violin Teaching, Violin Performance and Chamber Music.
Biography: Studied in Nizhny Novgorod and Moscow Conservatories (Russia), Berlin Hochschule (Germany). Twice awarded 1st prize in the International Jeunesses Musicales Competition in Vladivostok (Russia). Actively performed as a soloist, chamber violinist and orchestra member in Russia, Germany, Poland, Italy, France and Singapore. Highly sought-after teacher with more than 12 years of experience, specializing in teaching young children. In 2011, awarded for dedication in teaching by American Protege International Competition committee.
Faculty: Faculty since 2008
Tatyana Todorova
Born: Bulgaria
Field(s) of study: Violin, Violin Group
Degrees: Masters of Music, Southwestern University Neofit Rilski (Bulgaria)
Biography: Has taught extensively for over 20 years in Bulgaria and Singapore. Under her tutelage, many of her students have won awards in national and international violin competitions. Trainer of numerous high-scorer violinists in the ABRSM examinations.
Faculty: Faculty since 2001
Dang Thanh Trung
Field(s) of study: Violin
Born: Vietnam
Degrees: Bachelor of Music, Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music
Biography: South Vietnam born, Mr Dang Thanh Trung began his violin studies at the age of five and was granted annual scholarships at the Ho Chi Minh City Conservatory of Music, where he studied with Professor Nguyen Hoang Cuong and Ha Dinh Tuong Vi. Graduating with the highest award for excellence in violin performance offered him the perfect opportunity to participate in Ho Chi Minh City Ballet and Symphony Orchestra. Since then, he has been frequently invited to perform and record with the orchestra for the national broadcaster.
In 2000, he formed his own string quartet and had performed for literally hundreds of performances throughout the country and recorded radio recitals for most of the major radio stations in Vietnam. He has received master classes with acclaimed artists such as French violinist Maryvonne le Dizes and T’ang Quartet.
In 2003, he was granted a full scholarship to further his violin studies at the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music – National University of Singapore. There, he studied under Professor Alexander Souptel and received the Bachelor Degree with honours. In 2007, he was granted a full scholarship to take part in the Asian Youth Orchestra with which, a number of concert tours have been given in Hong Kong, China and Japan under well-known conductors such as Okko Kamu, Richard Pontzious, Federico Cortese. Within the same year he was accepted under a full scholarship, into the Australian International Symphony Orchestra Institute in The State of Tasmania, a two-week intensive program regarded nationally for its innovative structure and professional delivery.
Since 2008, being an active chamber musician and orchestra player, he is a member of The Metropolitan Festival Orchestra and Singapore Lyric Opera Orchestra which has performed and collaborated with well-known conductors such as Arnie Roth, Justin Freer, Joshua Kangming Tan, to name a few. In 2017, he joined the Beautiful Mind Charity, a philanthropic organization that serves the community by caring for the underprivileged, especially nurturing musical talents in children with disabilities.
In 2016, Mr Trung spearheaded the chamber group in Mandeville Conservatory of Music, gathering high caliber student performers under his tutelage. They have since participated and performed in various concerts and recitals both in house and also in performance venues such as the Esplanade.
Faculty: Faculty since January 2010
Joy Feng Yue
Field(s) of study : Violin
Born : China
Degrees : Bachelor of Music, Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music
Biography : Studied with Professor Sui Keqiang & Wang Shaoyu at the middle school attached to the Central Conservatory of Music (Beijing). Winner of violin competitions in Shenyang. Member of China Youth Orchestra performing with Lang Lang & Chenxi. Freelance member of Singapore Symphony Orchestra.
Marinela Balagtas
Field(s) of study: Violin, Violin Group
Born: The Philippines
Degrees: Associate Diploma in Violin from Trinity College London
Biography: Ms Marinela started learning the violin at the age of 11 and attained her Diploma in Violin from Trinity College of London. Her performance repertoire includes overseas stints in Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and the Philippines accompanying internationally acclaimed artistes such as Kit Chan and Anita Abishiganaden. Ms Marinela has also performed for the late President Ong Teng Cheong for charity and former President Tony Tan at the Singapore Parliament. She also had the opportunity to perform for the late Prime Minister Lee Kwan Yew on two separate occasions and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.
Ms Marinela has been actively teaching in Mandeville Conservatory of Music from 2003 till present. With her experience, she is able to teach students as young as 3 years old onwards. Ms Marinela enjoys working with different age groups as it is always an enriching learning experience with the different demographics. She will tweak and adjust her teaching style to adjust to the learning capabilities of her student as she understands that every student is different. Under her guidance, her students achieved mostly merits and distinctions for their music exams.
Ms Marinela’s love for performing translates to her encouraging and engaging her students to performing, and not just playing for exams. Ms Marinela is part of the teaching faculty who trains the Violin Stars, a performance violin group. In Violin Stars, students are focused in training for performances which helps them build their confidence and in turn, they enjoy the music that they play. The Violin Stars have performed extensively in various countries like Ho Chi Minh in Vietnam and playing for the diplomats in Jakarta, Indonesia during the Bulgarian National Day. They have also performed in Vienna, Austria in December 2016 together with the Vienna Boys Choir and also in Taiwan in December 2017 for the BoAi Music Festival.
Ms Marinela is also a member of the Suzuki Association under Suzuki Violin Teacher Training and has participated in Suzuki Early Childhood Education (SECE).
Faculty: Faculty since 2002
Pham Thi Minh Anh
Field(s) of study : Violin, Viola
Born : Vietnam
Degrees : Bachelor of Music (Viola), Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music, National University of Singapore; Bachelor of Music (Violin), Hanoi Conservatory of Music
Biography : A member of the Yong Siew Toh Symphony Orchestra. Active member of the Singapore Festival Orchestra and Philharmonic Orchestra. Invited numerous occasions to Vietnam, the Philippines, Thailand, Russia and Australia as an orchestra member.
Faculty : Faculty since July 2007
Tan Jwu Jiun
Field(s) of study: Violin, Viola
Born: Singapore
Degrees: Bachelor of Music, Peabody Institute of John Hopkins (USA)
Biography: Performed extensively with the Singapore Symphony Orchestra before deciding to pursue teaching as a career. Awarded a Singapore Public Service Commission scholarship.
Faculty: Faculty since 2001.
Teodor Izmirev
Field(s) of study : Violin
Born : Bulgaria
Degrees : Masters of Arts, State Academy of Music, Pancho Vladigerov (Bulgaria)
Biography : Mr Teodor has been teaching violin since 1988, starting his career in Bulgaria and later moving to Singapore to teach in 2006. His Masters degree in Violin in the State Academy of Music (Bulgaria) and his 30 years of experience have equipped him with all the relevant skills of being an excellent teacher.
Mr Teodor takes on students of all ages from as young as 3 years old, as well as adults of an older age. His students’ levels range from Grade 1 till Diploma and many of them have participated in and won awards in various contests in Singapore. Some of his students have even decided to further their interest in the instrument and now have careers as professional musicians.
Mr Teodor understands and appreciates the uniqueness of every student and has adapted his teaching style to fit his students’ needs and preferences. His individualized style has been a great tool in maintaining his students’ long-term interest in the instrument and creating a genuine appreciation for music in general. He consistently encourages his students to take part in concerts and ensembles as he believes this develops their music abilities. He also has experience working with students with autism.
Faculty : Faculty since 2006.
Zhang Yanjun
Field(s) of study : Violin
Born : China
Degrees : 2012 Bachelor degree (second class honours) in Violin performance at the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory, National University of Singapore
Biography : Has been teaching since 2011
Faculty : Ms Zhang started playing the violin at the age of 6. She enrolled in the Middle School attached to the Xinghai Conservatory of Music (Guangzhou, China) at 12 years old. As a chamber violinist, she won the 1st prize in the 14th Asia-Hong Kong piano competition Quintet Group in 2007. A year later, she received the full scholarship from the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of music for her bachelor’s degree.
Ms Zhang joined Mandeville in 2012. Since then, all her students passed the violin exams obtaining excellent results. She believes that all students should enjoy the fun of playing music and to start their musical journey with joy.
Faculty: Faculty since 2012
Chang Jeh, Jakin
Field(s) of study: Viola, Violin
Born: Singapore
Degrees: BMUS (Hons) in Viola Performance, Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music; Diploma in Music Performance, Viola, Licentiate of Trinity College London; Diploma in Music Performance, Viola with Distinction, Associate of Trinity College London
Biography:
Jakin Chang is a violist from Singapore. He obtained a full scholarship to study Viola Performance at Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music (YSTCM), National University of Singapore (NUS), to study under Ms. Zhang Manchin, principal violist of the Singapore Symphony Orchestra, and graduated in 2021. He has since played in masterclasses with Huang Hsin-Yun, Charles Castleman, Csaba Erdelyi, Roger Tapping, Mazumi Tanamura, Shlomo Mintz and Basil Vendryes among others.
Jakin is also well versed in chamber music, and has studied under members from the T’ang Quartet, London Haydn Quartet, Sitkovetsky Trio and Kronos Quartet.
Playing in numerous orchestras around Singapore even before entering music conservatory, Jakin has a rich Orchestra experience, serving as Principal Viola and Section Viola in orchestras such as Musicians Initiative, Orchestra of the Music Makers, International Festival Chorus, and Metropolitan Festival Orchestra among others.
In musical pedagogy, Jakin is a believer in patient guidance to encourage steady progress. His approach to teaching is a mixture of imbuing a true passion and love for music, and creating a firm technical foundation for his students to grow. He regularly draws from life experiences to inspire his students as he believes that there should be real experiences behind every musical lesson.
Faculty: Faculty since May 2023
Huong Ly
Field(s) of study : Cello
Born : Vietnam
Degrees : Bachelor of Music, Yong Siew Toh Conservatory; Bachelor of Music, Hanoi National Conservatory of Music (Vietnam)
Biography : Has taught for more than 10 years in Vietnam and Singapore. A highly sought after cellist for many chamber concerts and orchestra events, such as Cellissimo at the Esplanade Recital Studio, a member of Singapore Festival Orchestra.
Faculty : Faculty since 2009
Neville Athenasius Ang Xin Chun
Field(s) of study : Violin
Born : Singapore
Degrees : Master of Music, Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music, Bachelor of Music with Honours (Distinction) in Violin Performance, Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music
Biography : Neville obtained his bachelor’s with honours (Distinction) and his Masters of Music from the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music. His previous teachers include Associate Professor Zuo Jun, Head of Violin at the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music, Singapore Symphony Orchestra Fixed Chair Violinist, Chan Yoong Han and Concertmaster of The BBC Symphony, Igor Yuzefovich.
As an active orchestral musician, Neville freelances with the Singapore Symphony Orchestra. He also actively leads and perform with other local groups such the Metropolitan Festival Orchestra. ReSound Collective, Red Dot Baroque and the Wayfarer Sinfonietta.
In his younger days, Neville spent 8 years in the Singapore National Youth Orchestra. Through this national programme, he had the opportunity to perform abroad in cities such as Aberdeen and Berlin. He emerged as the winner in the 2014 SNYO Concerto Competition and made his solo debut with the Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto. He was also selected to participate in the 30th Toyota Youth Orchestra Camp in Tokyo where he collaborated with musicians of the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra.
Earlier in 2018, a formal invitation was extended to him to lead the Jungli Youth Orchestra from Taoyuan City, Taiwan, for a performance in Korea at the KBS Hall. Other notable posts include principal violinist with orchestras such as Musicians Initiative, Yong Siew Toh Conservatory Orchestra, Singapore International Festival of Music Orchestra and the International Festival Chorus Singapore Orchestra.
Between June to August 2022, Neville attended the Aspen Music Festival under scholarship. Subsequently, he attended the World Orchestra Forum in Shizuoka, Japan, as an invited guest speaker. During the forum, he gave a presentation about the impact of music in the lives of young people to an audience that included Japanese Royalty, Princess Takamado. As an invited guest, he was also given the opportunity to perform for the Princess as well.
Faculty : Faculty since January 2024
Placida Ho
Field(s) of study : Violin
Born : Singapore
Degrees : Master of Music with Specialization in Music Education, Violin; Koninklijk Conservatorium Den Haag, Netherlands
Biography : Ms Placida Ho has just finished her second Bachelor of Early Music on Baroque violin at the Royal Conservatoire of the Hague, the Netherlands. She studied with Ryo Terakado and modern violin with Liesbeth Ackermans. She studied with Alexander Souptel and Igor Yuzefovich for her Bachelor of Music with Honors (Violin Performance) in Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music, Singapore. She also did a minor study on the violone with Maggie Uruqhart in the Hague for 2 years. For her modern chamber music training in the Hague, her quartet auditioned and was chosen to take part in lessons with the Casals Quartet for a year.
Throughout her studies she has been deeply interested in training herself as a teacher. She studied violin didactics with Liesbeth Ackermans for 2 years, attended numerous Kodaly workshops conducted by teachers from the Liszt Academy Kodaly Institute and taught in and observed the Pi music program for young children in the Conservatoire.
During her studies abroad, Ms Placida has participated and facilitated some classes of the Pi program for young children in the Royal Conservatoire of the Hague. She has also taught a wide range of students from 3 years old to adult beginners in a local private music school.
Faculty : Faculty since September 2020
Cherie Choo Rui Min
Field(s) of study: Classical / Contemporary Vocal
Degrees: Bachelor of Music (Magna Cum Laude), Berklee College Music; International Baccalaureate Diploma in Higher Level Music, School of The Arts Singapore; Advanced Diploma in Classical Vocals, Trinity College London; Associate Diploma in Popular Music Vocals, London College of Music
Biography: Ms Cherie Choo has 11 years of voice teaching experience and 20 years of performing.
She has been involved as an Artist / Singer in various musicals such as Sunshine Girl Musical by Dick Lee Asia, Jack and The Beansprout Musical by Wild Rice and Aladdin Musical by Wild Rice.
Ms Cherie Choo is currently a founder, private voice instructor, music production and songwriting coach in CRM Creative.
Faculty : Faculty since July 2023
Alvin Chan Keng Huat
Field(s) of study : Flute, Piccolo
Born : Singapore
Degrees : Masters in Flute, Conservatoire Royal de Mons, Belgique
Biography : Mr Alvin Chan started playing the flute at the age of 13 under the tutelage of Wang Tong. Since then, he has pursued his passion for music and graduated from the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) with a Diploma in Flute Performance. During his time in NAFA, he was awarded the Ngee Ann Kong Si Award. He was under the tutelage of Evgueni Brokmiller; associate principal of the Singapore Symphony Orchestra.
As a Military Expert with the Singapore Armed Forces Band, Mr Alvin continuously aims to enrich himself with numerous overseas Military Tattoos as well as local performances and recitals. He was also given the opportunity to master the Ryuteki and Dizi for various solo performances such as the WMC-WBAS Intercontinental conducting course conducted by Maestro Douglas Bostock and for the Amur Waves International Military Tattoo in Khabarovsk, Russia. Besides performing, he has also achieved a Distinction in the Enhanced Basic Military Musician Course.
As an orchestra and chamber performer, Mr Alvin involves himself with various musical genres and styles. He is the Principal Piccolo of the Braddell Heights Symphony Orchestra and Associate Principal of the Young Musician’s Foundation Orchestra. He also frequently plays in groups such as The Orchestra of Music Makers, The Philharmonic Orchestra, the Anglo Chinese Wind Orchestra, VeritaSG as well as Tomodachi Winds.
In 2013, he participated in the 7th Summa Cum Laude International Youth Music Festival in Austria, Vienna held at the Musikverein with the SMU Symphonia and was awarded the Outstanding Award. He has also attained the Gold award with the Anglo-Chinese Wind Orchestra in the 2012 and 2014 Singapore international Band Festival. In 2017, he was invited to represent Singapore at the Daegu Flute Festival, Korea, promoting Singapore’s young musicians at an international level.
Mr Alvin believes in spreading the joy of music to a wider audience. In 2018, he was invited to Ho Chin Minh city to give a series of piccolo recitals as well as premiering local works by Vietnamese composers. In the same year, he was also selected to attend the International Flute Seminar in Bruges. He had the privilege of learning under master flute and piccolo player Peter Verhoyen (Principal piccolo for the Antwerp Symphony Orchestra).
He has attained his Masters in Flute Performance at the Royal Conservatory of Mons, Belgium under the tutelage of acclaimed Belgian Flute Professor, Marc Grauwels and his associate Jean Prevot.
Faculty : Faculty since June 2021
Don Kow Kang Yue
Field(s) of study : Trombone, Trumpet, Euphonium
Born : Singapore
Degrees : Artist’s Certificate in Music, Royal Conservatory of The Hague; Master of Music, Codarts University of the Arts, Rotterdam; Bachelor of Music (Honours with Merit), Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music
Biography : Mr Don Kow holds an Artist’s Certificate in Trombone Performance from the Royal Conservatory of The Hague, a Master of Music from the Codarts University of the Arts and a Bachelor of Music (Honours) from the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music.
His principal teachers include Alexander Verbeek, Brandt Attema, Fredi Sonderegger, Sebastiaan Kemner, Shannon Pittaway, Timothy Dowling and Zachary Bond. In addition, he has also performed in masterclasses with Jorgen van Rijen, Ian Bousfield and Joseph Alessi.
With vast experience in chamber and orchestral playing, Mr Don is versatile in diverse styles. He has performed on period instruments alongside the Orchestra of the 18th Century. Mr Don has also performed in the Dutch National Opera’s production of Karlheinz Stockhausen’s opera cycle ‘Aus Licht’ for the Holland Festival, where he performed a trombone solo role that was combined with elements of theatre and movement.
Mr Don has received scholarships to attend the Animato Foundation Orchestra Academy and the Domaine Forget Music and Dance Academy. Additionally, he has also been invited to be the Principal Trombone with the South Asian Symphony Orchestra and the Bandung Philharmonic Orchestra.
Back in Singapore, Mr Don plays regularly with the Orchestra of the Music Makers and Orchestra Collective.
Faculty : Faculty since December 2019
Mohamad Rasull Bin Md Khelid
Field(s) of study : Flute. Clarinet, Saxophone
Born : Singapore
Degrees : Bachelor of Arts with Diploma in Education (Music & Mathematics), NIE
Biography : Mr Rasull pursued a Bachelor of Arts with Diploma in Education at the National Institute of Education (Nanyang Technological University). Majoring in both Music and Mathematics, he graduated in 2003 and garnered the Mrs. Paul-Feng Pei Djen Gold Medal for outstanding achievement in his Music studies. It was there that he studied Conducting with Assoc. Prof Ho Hwee Long, Composition and Orchestration with Dr Kelly Tang, and flute with Dr Goh Tiong Eng. He maintains an active performing schedule with the Braddell Heights Symphony Orchestra (BHSO, Principal Flutist since 1997), the Singapore Wind Symphony (SWS) and the AudioImage Wind Ensemble AIWE), and also on the oboe with the Orkestra Melayu Singapura.
Mr Rasull obtained the Licentiate of the Royal Schools of Music (LRSM) in Flute Performance in 2005 and has been invited to perform for the ABRSM High Scores concert on two occasions. He also achieved a Merit in the ABRSM Grade 8 Performance examination in 2006. He has also been a featured soloist with BHSO, SWS, AIWE and The Chamber Players. He has also been a performing participant in flute masterclasses by Nancy Clew, Ayako Maeda, James Galway, Nestor Torres and Trevor Wye.
Mr Rasull served with the Ministry of Education, Singapore as a General Education Officer, teaching Music and Mathematics at Jurongville Secondary School from 2003 to 2007. He subsequently left the Education Service to become a full-time school band conductor and woodwind instrumental tutor, working with school band members at various primary, secondary and junior college schools. He is currently the Band Conductor at Assumption English School, Orchid Park Secondary School, Yishun Innova Junior College and the Institute of Education (Central). He is also currently the Associate Conductor of the AudioImage Wind Ensemble, a community-level concert band based at Siglap South Community Centre, Singapore. His commitment to the musical development of his students is evident by his continual hands-on involvement in the teaching of his young charges and leading them to successful public performances at concerts and festivals such as the Singapore Youth Festival and the Singapore International Band Festival.
Mr Rasull is also an active arranger of symphonic band music and is currently the Resident Arranger with BHSO, SWS and AIWE. His arrangements range from transcriptions of orchestral music (Borodin – Polovtsian Dances, Tchaikovsky – Waltz from Swan Lake, Eugene Onegin) to the latest pop hits by Justin Timberlake and Lady Gaga. He has had his arrangements performed by local acapella group Vocaluptous, Benjamin Kheng, Wicked Aura Batucada, Sezairi Sazali, Nathan Hartono, Joanna Dong, and internationally-renowned euphonium artist Steven Mead. His most recent commissions range from arranging the music for the Anglican High School’s 60th Anniversary school musical “Chrysalis”, to original symphonic band compositions for the Singapore Wind Symphony, Bedok Green Secondary School and Angsana Primary School.
However, being an avid gamer since young, his first love still remains with the music of video games and anime, and he has endeavoured to bring performances of his arrangements of music from Final Fantasy, Kingdom Hearts, Legend of Zelda, Pokemon, Macross Frontier and Neon Genesis Evangelion among others to local audiences for the past 16 years. With the AudioImage Wind Ensemble he has arranged and conducted music from Attack on Titan, Naruto, the Touhou Project, the Legend of Zelda, Super Mario Bros, Overwatch, Nier: Automata and the Final Fantasy series in three separate “Symphonic G-On” concerts put up since 2015. He strives to bring to his audiences, especially the fans of music from video games and anime, the experience of being able to hear the music being performed live in a grand symphonic setting in a concert hall.
Mr Rasull’s continued active involvement in the Singaporean music community shapes his philosophy of music education, with strong emphasis on the fundamentals of music and in performing for the public. He strives with his students, the eventual goal of enabling the student to make a meaningful connection with his audience through performance.
Faculty : Faculty since October 2017
