"Learning piano with you sparked a love for music I didn’t know I had, and gave me the tools to grow as an artist. The techniques I’ve learned made me really appreciate the piano and achieved my goal of learning my favorite Chopin Nocturne." -- graduating high school student, who began lessons at age 10

​

"Did you know that I actually like piano?" -- 8 year old student, after two years of lessons

​​

These candid comments reflect the joy and growth my students experience. My goal as a teacher is to nurture outstanding pianists, make learning enjoyable (hello video game music!), and foster a lifelong appreciation for music. I support every student on their unique musical journey, whether they aspire to win competitions, pursue music professionally, or simply learn for personal enrichment. 

 

As a lifelong pianist, I hold a Master of Fine Arts and a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance from UC Irvine, where I graduated Phi Beta Kappa - America's most prestigious honor society celebrating excellence in the liberal arts and sciences since 1776 - cum laude, and as a Leo Freedman Scholar. I am an active member of the Music Teachers' Association of California (MTAC), serving as a competition judge, Certificate of Merit evaluator, and a Board of Directors member for my local branch.

 

My performance career includes international concerts with Video Games Live, a series celebrating iconic video game music. I currently teach at a community college - classroom piano and music appreciation, and offer instruction in musicianship and art song literature for vocalists at the Orange County School of the Arts. 

​

I am deeply grateful for the mentorship of my former teachers - Lorna Griffit, Myong Joo-Lee, Ory Shihor, Valentina Gottlieb, Scott McBride Smith, and Marilyn Shields - whose expertise and encouragement inspired me to play from the heart. 

On a personal note, I'm also a runner and serve as a brand ambassador for rabbit apparel, Garmin, and Honey Stinger. In 2019, I had an article published in the California Music Teacher's Journal exploring the connections between music and running. 

 

​