TEACHING PHILOSOHPY

April Chung enjoys teaching music and writing music compositions for her students. She has developed a very fun and engaging music teaching system that mixes traditional classical training method with Yamaha education system.

As a music method developer, She creates music compositions and arrangements for students in various genres. Her students include all ages, and the subjects range from piano playing to music theory, harmony and counterpoint, ear training, form and analysis, along with music appreciation. Her method book, "The Enchanted Bells: Marco Piccolo's Musical Adventure," is published by Balestier Press and is available in most major online bookstores worldwide.

Ms. Chung therefore provides a musical environment with a highly inspirational and effective learning method. Here are some tenets of Ms. Chung’s philosophy of teaching:

 •   Develop an  interest and enthusiasm for music: Of paramount importance, Ms. Chung strives to instill in her students a passion for music. Therefore, her lessons include not only piano playing but also a wide variety of stimulating subjects, such as music appreciation, which highlights well-known composers and repertoire stories.

•   Active Learning: Ms. Chung helps her students develop a habit of active learning which occurs when they are inspired and willing to dig into subjects more deeply. She strongly encourages her students to develop their own unique ideas instead of simply absorbing her interpretation.

•   Fun and creativity: Music Theory and Ear Training are included in the lessons to support the piano learning. For young children, these two subjects are taught with various music games that Ms. Chung herself designs.

•   Historical reference: Music History is included in the lessons when it is applicable to help the students gain better comprehension of different music styles.

•   Discipline Learning: Each lesson is carefully planned based on what an individual student needs, and Ms. Chung expects the student to play his or her very best during the lessons. Discipline is one of the most important elements in the learning process. Furthermore, this habit can positively influence and greatly improve the student’s performance in other academic subjects.