Catherine - Teacher #4076

Instruments:
- Piano
- Voice

Languages:
- English
- Mandarin

Teaching Philosophy

As a classically trained pianist with a passion for nurturing young learners, I believe music should be both structured and joyful. My lessons are tailored to each student’s unique pace, personality, and goals—whether you’re preparing for RCM exams or simply exploring music for the first time. I create a patient, encouraging space where students can build confidence, develop discipline, and genuinely enjoy the process of learning. With experience teaching children and performing in both solo and ensemble settings, I bring not only musical knowledge but also warmth, consistency, and a deep respect for every learner. My goal is for students to leave each lesson feeling proud, inspired, and eager to keep growing.

Musical Education

I hold a Level 10 Piano Diploma from the Royal Conservatory of Music, having studied classical piano and theory extensively throughout my youth. My training focused on both technique and expressive interpretation, grounded in the RCM curriculum. I was an active member of my high school concert band and currently perform with the UBC Concert Band, where I continue to develop my ensemble and performance skills. My experiences in both solo and group settings have deepened my passion for teaching music and helping students grow through joyful, disciplined learning.

Awards and Distinctions

Received top honours for ensemble performance and outstanding soloist at one of North America's largest and longest-running jazz festivals (Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival), recognizing excellence in musicality, collaboration, and stage presence.

Special Skills and Training

I began piano lessons at a young age and quickly found joy in the discipline and creativity it brings. Earning my RCM Level 10 Diploma taught me not just technique, but also the ability to persevere and express myself musically. Performing with both my high school, UBC concert bands, and the award winning Vancouver Youth Choir and Crescent Youth Choir has given me a strong foundation in ensemble collaboration, musical interpretation, and leadership. Teaching piano privately has deepened my passion for guiding students—especially children—and helping them discover confidence through music. These experiences have shaped me into a patient, organized, and joyful educator who believes that music is a lifelong gift to be shared.

Rates

30 Minutes: $39.00
45 Minutes: $49.00
60 Minutes: $59.00

There is a one-time registration fee of 25 $ charged with the first lessons. All Taxes are included in prices, if applicable

NOTE: Your Credit card will be charged ONLY when the first lesson is set up and confirmed with the teacher

Policies


1. Cancellation Policy

Lessons not cancelled or rescheduled with at least 24 hours notice are billable to the client and payable to the teacher. This does not of course apply to travel fees unless the notice is effectively given at the door and the teacher has travelled to the location.

2. Cessation (quitting) Policy

A client must provide a 2 lesson notice period to stop lessons. So a weekly student needs to give 2 weeks of notice, a biweekly student works out to 3 weeks notice and a twice weekly student works out to a week of notice.

3. Illness Policy

Lessons cancelled due to illness or extraordinary circumstances with less than 24 hours notice remain billable to the client and payable to the teacher.

BAH teachers are encouraged to offer a make-up lesson at a future date in the interest of client relations and general goodwill. This only makes sense as teaching a student with the flu for example, will ruin the rest of your week's employment.

No more than 2 lessons may be made up due to illness within a 60 day period.

4. Rescheduling Policy

Any lesson can be cancelled or rescheduled with at least 24 hours notice.

Summer Vacation and Extended Absence Policy

Clients may schedule longer absences for trips etc. 24 hours notice is required.

It is normal and typical for students and about 20% of our teachers to schedule a break in the summer. We do not enforce a notice period (see cessation of lessons) at the end of a long summer break.

5. Evaluation Period

There are no free trial lessons with Beethoven at Home but we do offer a 2 lesson evaluation period where it is easy to try out a teacher. There are no free lessons during the evaluation period and clients may choose to discontinue the lessons at any time by providing the required 24 hours notice. After the student's 3rd lesson the required 2 lesson notice period will apply (see cessation of lessons above).