​Hallie Wang Piano Studio : finding inspirations

 

What's your degree "piano pedagogy" focus on?

The word pedagogy means the method/practice of teaching. In other words, I specialize in piano teaching. We evaluate different piano teaching methods and observe piano educators during their teaching time. I am one of the first UCI piano performance graduates to receive this master degree. A great performer does not necessary equal to a great teacher.

 

What's the age range and level that you teach?

I accept students at all ages and all levels, competitive and non-competivie. The youngest student thatI have taught was 3 years old and is still studying with me. I myself started my piano study at the age of 3 and can still recall the joy of going to my weekly lessons. I am one of the few teachers who is trained to accept students at the age of 3. The oldest one that I have a currently teach is 50+ years old. In addition to my beginner and intermediate level students, I am also preparing advanced level students with their audition into college music degree and certification to be professional piano pedagogues.

 

Do you teach students with special needs?

Yes. I am experienced to teach students with special needs such as autism, dyslexia and ADHD. Not only is music beneficial to children of all abilities, it serves as a non-verbal communication channel and a tool used in pain management and healing for children undergoing medical procedures. I do independent studies and attend workshops on topics of music therapy. 

 

Are students able to participate in recitals?

Yes. In addition to the annual studio recital every winter, students from my studio are eligible to join the monthly local recitals and community performances. Rarely, teachers are able to offer many performing opportunaties due to the amount of effort required from the teacher and student, but these are the key elements to grow into a mature musician who will carry music as their life long skill. 

 

Do you offer group lessons?

Yes. During summer months, music group lessons may be offered depending on my availability. I only teach private lessons to maximize the growth and quality of the time spent with my students. Each student deserves my full attention with their weekly private lessons. However, workshops are offered quarterly for students to interact and learn from their peers and practice performing in a low-stress environment. These workshops also the steps to prepare students to be under the spotlight with ease and enjoyment.

 

Do you teach at student's house?

Only under special circumstances that I will travel to teach at a student's house. I have a full studio of 35 students, so my schedule simply does not allow me to do so during most of my teaching time. I strongly encourage all my students to take lessons at the studio. Our brain associates location and its function. Students learn better at a teacher's studio compared to at their home where they receive rest and comfort.