Piano

Kevin Sy

Kevin Sy CSMA Music Teacher

Education and Background

Kevin holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in piano performance from San Francisco State University. He studied under distinguished instructors including Victoria Neve, John McCarthy, Antoinette Perry, Anna Poklewski, and Rose Chen. Previously, he actively participated in the Music Teachers Association of California, serving as the director of the board and the president of the San Francisco chapter. Currently, he is pursuing a doctoral degree in education at the University of San Francisco, focusing on educational psychology and instructional design.

Kevin’s teaching experience includes instructing piano at various institutions, including San Francisco State University, Northern California Music & Art Culture Center, Cottonwood Music Studio, and other schools in the SF Bay Area. He has successfully guided numerous students to excel in CM and ABRSM exams at intermediate and advanced levels, often achieving honors or merits/distinction. In recognition of his exceptional instruction and leadership in music education, Kevin received the prestigious Steinway & Son’s “Top Teacher Award” in 2021.

In addition to piano instruction, Kevin imparts music theory knowledge for Certificate of Merit exams and ABRSM Level 5 Music Theory exams. He underwent advanced theory and analysis training with composer Richard Festinger and conducted in-depth research on sonata theory and Renaissance vocal polyphony under the guidance of Dr. Paul Ellison. Kevin also pursued studies in instrumental conducting with both Martin Seggelke and Brad Hogarth. Drawing from his multidisciplinary experiences, he employs an analytical teaching approach to help students overcome technical challenges, incorporating technology and new literature into his lessons.

Teaching Philosophy

Kevin’s teaching philosophy emphasizes empowering students to think independently, encouraging problem-solving, self-reflection on musical progress, and effective articulation of ideas and choices. He believes that these essential life skills, cultivated through piano lessons, are applicable to all aspects of education and life beyond.

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