ABOUT ME
Welcome! My name is Robert.
I am a piano and music theory instructor located in the Champlain Heights area of Vancouver.
In the 10+ years I have been teaching, I have taught students from 5 to 80 years old and helped many of them prepare for recitals, music festivals, and Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) exams for piano and music theory. As a pianist, I play at events such as weddings and funerals, as well as collaborate with various singers and instrumentalists.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Master of Music - Piano Performance & Pedagogy (Memorial University of Newfoundland)
Bachelor of Music - Piano (University of British Columbia)
Music Diploma - Classical Piano (Capilano University)
RCM Performer’s ARCT (Piano) - First Class Honour with Distinction / Recipient of the Velma Cannon Trophy in 2014
During my post-secondary studies, I had the opportunity to study with various well-respected pianists and teachers such as David McCoy, Dr. Sara Davis Buechner, Dr. Maureen Volk, and Dr. Kristina Szutor.
Aside from piano, I have also studied violin and music theory at tertiary level. I also studied Baroque music as a solo and collaborative harpsichordist and have performed at several Early Music Concerts held in UBC.
My Philosophy:
In my lessons, I always try to keep a balance between techniques and musicality (e.g., musical expressions). As a teacher and musician, I believe these two areas overlap with each other in many ways and must be worked on simultaneously regardless of skill level and age.
I strive to help my students achieve the best that they can, and I believe it is equally important to create an environment where they can enjoy the learning process and the music itself. I always encourage my students to think creatively and experiment with new ideas. Not only does this keep them self-motivated, but it also helps them gain a new perspective and understand music better in accordance with themselves.