Hear Our Students
Enjoy some performances below then CLICK HERE to hear our students share about their musical journey in their own words by watching our STUDENT SPOTLIGHTS
Enjoy some performances below then CLICK HERE to hear our students share about their musical journey in their own words by watching our STUDENT SPOTLIGHTS
Kate Vasylieva – PianoAs a classically trained pianist, music is an integral part of my life. I believe music can enrich everyone’s life, regardless of age and initial ability.
Kate is a graduate of Kyiv Institute of Music n.a. R. M. Glier, with a Master’s Degree in Music Art. Not only does she have a passion for teaching and connecting with her students, Kate is an active performer, both as a soloist and an ensemble player.
Kate’s philosophy is that music should be accessible and enjoyable for all. It is her greatest joy to see a student progress and develop as a musician. The approach Kate takes is very personal: “I get to know every student individually in order to choose repertoire that will both be enjoyed but also provide a challenge.”
Jenny Crane – CelloJenny Crane is a multi-faceted Cellist established as a performer, recording artist, teacher, and lyricist. She began playing the Cello at 6 years old, studying with John Kadz in Calgary, Alberta, Canada at Mount Royal University’s Conservatory program.
During her formative years there, she competed in and received outstanding critiques at the Provincial Kiwanis festival and the Canadian Music Competition, and represented Alberta in Chamber music at the National Kiwanis Festival. At Mount Royal Conservatory, Jenny had the opportunity to work with distinguished guest artists such as Andres Diaz, Laurence Lesser, Anton Kuerti, Hans Jorgen-Jensen, Desmond Hoebig, and Ron Leonard. During the summer she has participated three times in the Morningside Music bridge International exchange. As part of MMB 2009 in Gdansk, Poland, Jenny had the exciting privilege to play for the renowned composer Krzystof Penderecki, performing movements from his Divertimento for solo Cello.
In 2014, Jenny completed her Baccalaureate degree at the University of Montreal, studying privately with Johanne Perron. She then completed her Master’s degree at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, studying with Jennifer Culp. It was during this time that she developed her skills in composition and recording arts, finessing her artistic voice as a musician.
Jenny has experience in song writing, producing, and composing music on the Cello, utilizing a loop pedal in performances. She is currently teaching, performing, and building upon her role in the recording arts industry, collaborating with song writers and composers internationally and locally.
Alec Tanase – PianoAlec Tanase began his formal training in piano at the age of five years old with Morin Music Studio. With over twelve years of formal training, he is passionate about all styles of music and the enjoyment it brings.
Alec has completed his certification to the advanced level from The Royal Conservatory of Music, consistently receiving First Class Honours and Distinction. He has excelled in performance, inspired by the exceptional guidance of his instructor Rachel Kreyner.
In his teaching, Alec emphasizes the importance of strong piano technique and offering a versatile methodology that can adapt to all student’s needs and goals. He supports his students to strive towards high academic expectations, while also focusing on the joy and fun that music offers.
As well as teaching piano, Alec also works with youth as a competitive swim coach to students with the Killarney Swim Club. As a team player, Alec is part of the Ernest Manning High School Football Team, winning the City Championship in 2019.
Along with his formal classical piano training, Alec aims to specialize in Biological Sciences and to pursue Medical School. In his spare time, he enjoys mountain biking, skiing, and socializing with his peers. He is pleased to share the love of music with his students at Morin Music, and enjoys inspiring the next generation of musicians and artists.
Lynn Kwon – Piano
Lizzie Misutka – Voice, PianoLizzie Misutka is a pianist, singer, actress, and dancer, born and raised in Calgary Alberta. Lizzie has always had a love for music and has been studying and playing classical piano for over two decades. She began her training at the age of 2 studying the Suzuki method, and later switched to Royal Conservatory where she completed the advanced levels, studying under Elizabeth Rebozo and later Charles Foreman in Calgary.
Lizzie has also always had a love for singing. She began singing and competing in choir under the direction of Quan Le before beginning private lessons. Lizzie completed the advanced Royal Conservatory performance examinations, and studied with Michelle Minke and Dr. Tara Laberge.
Lizzie pursued her love for music and performing at a higher level, studying theatre, dance, and music at the Randolph College for the Performing Arts in Toronto (’20).
Lizzie is now working toward her Bachelor of Arts Honors in Women’s and Gender Studies at the University of Calgary.
Ayza Morin – Crescendo Kids, Teacher AssistantAyza began playing piano at the age of four and is fortunate to be a part of the highly musical family that is the Morins. As a young girl, she was involved in her school’s choir and theatre performances and has continuously possessed an appreciation for music and the fine arts. She is now attending the tenth grade at Western Canada High School, where she is involved in the choir, dance, and drama program.
Currently, she is a member of the Western Canada High School Festival Chorus and is active in the choir’s concerts and performances as well. She is an avid reader and writer, and is a member of her school’s Student Council, Model UN, and Speech teams. As well, Ayza has been a competitive dancer for over ten years, and enjoys dancing ballet, jazz, lyrical, and hip-hop inside and outside of school.
However, Ayza has always been enthusiastic about working with young children and is grateful that she is able to pursue her passion through the Crescendo Kids program. She is fond of babysitting and volunteers at the library to educate students on coding, thus she is ecstatic that she once again has an opportunity to work with kids of all ages. Ayza is extremely excited to be involved in the teaching of aspiring musicians, and is eager to sing, dance, and play instruments as an Assistant Early Childhood Music Instructor.
Leon Leontaridis, Senior Instructor – VoiceOver the last 30 years, Leon Leontaridis has toured and performed with groups such as: The Canadian Tenors, Destino, Calgary Opera, Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, Cowtown Opera, Vivace, Rocky Mountain Symphony Orchestra, GhostBoy, piano and violin sensations Roy Tan and Rosemary Siemens, and as the solo artist The Gentleman Leon.
Some of his touring highlights include performances in: Carnegie Hall, the Beijing Olympics, Miss America Pageant, Children’s Miracle Network, Disney World, St. Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Abbey. He has performed in cross-Canada tours with The Rankin Family and Canadian Country Music superstar George Canyon.
Leon holds a Bachelor of Music in Performance from the University of Victoria. Currently, Leon is also part of the voice faculty at The Conservatory of Music at Mount Royal University in Calgary. He is a highly sought-after vocal coach and has worked with performance companies such as: Storybook Theatre, The Young Canadians, Revv52 and Kantorei.
Leon is married to Susan Leontaridis and has 4 talented daughters to share his passion of music with.
Pianist and composer Michelle Grégoire’s music has been described as “ingenious”, “elegant”, “balanced”, and “original with great depth and imagination”. She has toured across Canada with her own projects and her music is heard regularly on XM Radio and Galaxie satellite jazz programs. An active freelance musician since 1984, Michelle Grégoire maintains a solid reputation as a sideperson and band leader having backed up artists in all genres. Grégoire holds jazz degrees from St. Francis Xavier University (1988, 1990), a Master of Music degree in Jazz Studies from the Florida State University (1993). Grégoire has also studied privately with world-renowned composers Maria Schneider and Bob Brookmeyer.
Currently an active freelance musician in Calgary (formerly Winnipeg), Michelle maintains a solid reputation as a sideperson and band leader having worked with the Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra since its inception in 1997, as well as the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, the Prime Time Big Band, The Calgary Jazz Orchestra, The Fox Big Band and the Calgary Creative Arts Ensemble. She has worked and recorded with Amy Bishop and Ralf Bushmeyer, the Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra and she has performed with Tyler Hornby, Jeremy Brown, Simon Fisk and many more. Michelle has also appeared with renowned artists such as Amy Sky, Marc Jordan, Steve Bell, Tom Jackson, Brian Hughes, Liberty Silver, Daniel Lavoie and Marie-Denise Pelletier. She has appeared with prominent jazz figures such as Dave Young, Rob McConnell, Peter Appleyard, VEJI (Vancouver Ensemble of Jazz Improvisation), Byron Stripling, Mike Murley, Al Kay, and Phil Dwyer to name a few.
She is very active in the world of Musical Theatre having performed in the pit orchestras of Theatre Calgary’s Secret Garden (2018), Crazy For You (2017), Mary Poppins (2014), Anne of Green Gables (2013) and CATS (2012). She has worked as part of StageWest Calgary’s production of Pure 90s (2017-18), 80’s Solid Gold (2014-15). She has also performed in pit orchestras in Winnipeg for productions such as Hairspray (2011 Rainbow Stage, Winnipeg), Grease (Manitoba Warehouse Theater), Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Rainbow Stage, Winnipeg, and also Centennial Concert Hall in Winnipeg featuring Jimmy Osmond), and Fiddler On The Roof (Winnipeg). Additionally she worked with theatre reviews Divas of Pop I and II (1999-2000), and Masters of Pop (1999-2000).
As a leader, she released two quintet recordings featuring her own compositions and arrangements. Both releases Reaching and Diversity earned a nomination as Outstanding Jazz Recording at the Western Canadian Music Awards and both recordings enjoy continued airplay making the top ten lists on jazz radio programs throughout North America. Her music is regularly featured on XM Radio’s Real Jazz and on Galaxie Radio programs. Michelle’s big band compositions have been aired on CBC’s Silence on Jazz, Afterhours, Arts Encounters, Atlantic Airwaves, Jazz Beat, and have been performed and recorded by many ensembles, most notably by the McGiill Jazz Ensemble I, The Toronto Jazz Orchestra, The Saskatoon Jazz Orchestra, the Calgary Creative Arts Ensemble, the Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra and the Banff Jazz Orchestra. In 2007 Michelle was commissioned by the Manitoba Chamber Orchestra and the CBC to create a suite for jazz trio and string orchestra and in 1998, she received a Manitoba Arts Council Commission and Development Grant to compose a large scale work for the Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra which was recorded and released on the WJO’s self-titled CD as well as the WJO’s Canada 150 Suite (nominated for a WCMA award 2019).
A devoted clinician and educator, Michelle has taught privately since 1988 and works regularly in Calgary schools as a jazz piano clinician. She has been a featured clinician in many colleges and high schools across Canada, namely Humber College, ST F X U, Capilano College and more. She is a sessional faculty member with Ambrose University in Calgary teaching jazz piano. In Winnipeg she held adjunct teaching positions at the Canadian Mennonite University as an applied jazz piano teacher, and was one of the jazz ensemble instructors at the University of Manitoba prior to the establishment of the current jazz program (1993-95). She was on Faculty at the Manitoba Conservatory of Music and Arts teaching private lessons in jazz piano, jazz theory and composition. While at the Florida State University, Michelle was a teaching assistant, directed the FSU Jazz Ensemble II, taught private students, and some improvisation courses. Many of her former students are engaged professionally as performers, composers, producers and educators across Canada and the US.
Robyn Holdstock – Manager of OperationsBorn in small town Weyburn Saskatchewan, Robyn spent her formative years inside her Dad’s vinyl record shop. Immersed in his extensive collection of music throughout her upbringing, Robyn considers herself to be born and raised on music, and feels a deep understanding of the inherent power of music and the arts.
In her professional background, Robyn is passionate about human development and potential. Among her credentials she is a certified in Holistic Nutrition, Neuro-linguistic programming, and Reiki practitioner. She is a Certified Women’s Coach specialist with Girls Gone Strong, and has focused her coaching specifically to support women and young females.
As a coach to women and youth, she facilitates growth through tools of writing, sharing of vulnerable human experiences, and movement. Her driving principle in her coaching and youth work is to share that all we are born worthy, and deserve to step fully into our innate power.
With her love of music combined with her passion for coaching and human potential, she is thrilled to support the growth and development of the teachers and students of Morin Music Studio.
Megan Halvorsen – Administrative SupportBorn and raised in Calgary, Megan is attending Mount Royal University to pursue her Bachelors degree in communications with a major in public relations. She has recently completed an internship with a public relations agency, and has several years of experience in customer service and early childhood development. While she has no formal music education, she finds true joy whenever she is listening to music or seeing a live performance.
Devon Khousakoun – PianoDevon Khousakoun has been playing piano since the age of five. As a student of Dmitry Nesterov, he has received his Grade 9 Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) certificate and has completed his Grade 10 practical exam. His teaching goals include sharing his passion for music with others and making the music learning process fun and engaging. Devon has received numerous awards at the Kiwanis Music Festival/Calgary Performing Arts.
Besides piano, Devon also holds a black belt in karate and enjoys teaching karate to people of all ages, ranging from young children to adults. Through teaching martial arts and piano, Devon has developed patience and understanding in working with a variety of personalities and students.
Devon currently is in his third year of neuroscience at the University of Calgary. In his free time, Devon likes to play basketball, conduct neuroscience research, and spend time with his two dogs.
John Matthew Cabalsa – Piano, ViolinJohn Matthew Cabalsa began his musical journey in the Philippines at age three, when he began to be trained in the basics of piano performance. He moved to Calgary in 2008, and has since found his home in the city. In 2009, he resumed piano lessons, and he also picked up the violin as a second instrument. Between 2016 and 2019, he studied under the Royal Conservatory Certificate Program, and since then, he has developed a love and passion for the musical craft and has continued working on developing his skills as a well-rounded musician. He has completed the Level 10 requirements for piano, music theory, and music history with First Class Honours, and Level 10 violin with Honours. He is currently pursuing two degrees at Ambrose University: a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Bachelor of Music in piano performance. He continues his musical training in pursuit of the BMus degree (and, concurrently, the ARCT diploma) under the tutelage of Edwin Gnandt from 2020 to 2021, and currently under Dr. Krzysztof Jablonski. He also currently studies music theory with Dr. Michalis Andronikou.
In 2020, John Matthew Cabalsa was a laureate of the 20th Edwin Gnandt Concerto Competition, and in March 2021, he performed the first movement of Mozart’s Piano Concerto in D Minor, K.466, with professor emeritus Edwin Gnandt.
John serves as a church pianist, has previously directed small and large ensembles for church events, and has volunteered in senior homes as a pianist and violinist for ten years. He also enjoys performing chamber music as a collaborative pianist for ensembles ranging from duets, trios, and quintets at Ambrose University. In 2021, he and several music students at Ambrose University formed a chamber music ensemble informally named “Camerata Ambrosia,” consisting of a string quartet and piano, and the ensemble practiced and performed several works for the local student body. He is also a regular member of the Ambrose University Chamber Orchestra. Besides his involvement in music and the arts, he is a president of a health club at Ambrose University and a peer tutor for music and science subjects.
As a music instructor, John Matthew Cabalsa holds a philosophy of instilling a love for the musical craft and the pursuit of musical excellence. He believes in helping students in building the foundations of their instruments, journeying with them as they progress, and developing confidence in their abilities, no matter the skill level or age. He looks forward to learn, grow, and contribute his skills for the edification of others. He specializes in RCM examination preparation, but he is willing and able to teach students with different goals and aspirations. He looks forward to working with his colleagues at Morin Music in any way he can as a teacher and music maker, both solo and in collaboration with fellow musicians. He is excited to share his passion for music making with the community of Morin Music and the rest of the arts community in the city of Calgary.
Dominique Lalama – Crescendo KidsDominique began her musical journey at the age of 3. She pursued the Royal Conservatory Piano program and obtained both her Grade 8 Piano and Grade 2 Theory certifications by age 13. As a child, she was also very active in musical theatre productions, choir, and her school’s jazz and concert bands as a trumpeter.
Later, Dominique graduated with an Honours Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Toronto, where she majored in Jazz Performance (Vocals). While completing her undergraduate studies, Dominique also started and maintained a successful private teaching studio in her hometown of Toronto, teaching students aged 4–45 piano, voice, and theory.
Currently, Dominique provides the singing voice of a character in a new children’s cartoon called Princess Doremi. She also obtained a diploma in Journalism and works at the CBC as an Associate Producer for TV news. In the past, she has worked as a babysitter, nanny and camp counsellor, and has led group musical theatre classes for young children.
Dominique is very passionate about music, but she is also incredibly passionate about working with children. She feels extremely fortunate to be able to combine her two biggest interests into one in the role of Early Childhood Music Instructor for the Crescendo Kids program. She can’t wait to help the next generation of young musicians develop their skills and fall in love with music!
Carly Sigurdson – PianoCarly was born and raised in Vancouver where she began playing piano at the age of 7. She studied with Jennifer Silva for 11 years before pursuing her Bachelor’s of Music at the University of Victoria under the tutelage of Dr. Jamie Syer. She went on to complete a Master’s of Music in Piano Performance at Texas Tech University and a Post Graduate Performance Diploma at the University of Arkansas, where she studied with Dr. William Westney and Jura Margulis respectively. Carly has performed as a soloist and chamber musician across North America, and most recently in Poland, Germany and Spain.
With over 15 years of teaching experience, Carly is passionate about working with students of all ages. She believes in providing a strong technical and musical foundation, in a positive and supportive environment.
Camille Rozon – PianoI began my piano studies at the age of five at Morin Music with Jennifer Shukuda, studying Suzuki piano and eventually switched to studying Royal Conservatory to further expand my musical repertoire. I am now studying with Juliana Chan, working to complete my level ten Royal Conservatory of Piano and level nine theory examinations. Musical education is very important in my family, my mom grew up playing piano and is now studying guitar, and my three younger siblings are all also studying the piano which allows us all to bond over the instrument!
Beyond piano, I began taking singing lessons four years ago and have since joined my high school choir, where I excelled in my class. This spring, I was invited to join the inaugural Alberta Treble Choir where I had the opportunity to meet many accomplished singers and musicians from our province and to work with Morna Edmundson as our director.
In high school, on top of the regular Alberta curriculum, I received a bilingual certificate for studying French and a bilingual International Baccalaureate diploma. Having graduated this spring with honours, I am now attending the University of Calgary where I earned both the Presidents Admission Scholarship and the IB Diploma Entrance Scholarship. I am studying Biomedical Sciences, after which I am hoping to attend medical school and become a doctor.
Connecting with my community is also very important to me, outside of school, I volunteer every week as a junior leader for a Girl Guide group in my neighbourhood, where I plan the topics we approach during meetings and tackle every girls individual’s needs within our unit.
Silvia Todea – PianoSilvia Todea began her musical journey at the age of 8. Inspired and motivated by wonderful teachers, Silvia worked throughout school and high school to reach a Level 9 Royal Conservatory Level in piano, and is currently working towards reaching Level 10. Her piano studies have helped her to foster a deep appreciation of music, discover an outlet for expressing emotion, and develop discipline and determination. She is excited to pay forward the great joy and benefits of studying the piano.
Shannon Wong – Practice PartnerShannon started playing the violin and piano when she was 3 years old in Bahrain. Growing up in North America, the Middle East, and Europe allowed Shannon to perform as a soloist, in ensembles, and in orchestras all around the world in many locations such as the Royal College of Music in England, and the Musikverein in Vienna, Austria.
After moving to Canada, she attended the Academy Program at Mount Royal Conservatory for several years. She was the concertmaster for two years in the Conservatory Sinfonia and Chamber Strings orchestras.
Shannon has received distinctions in many examinations from three music boards. She has obtained her Trinity Licentiate Performance Diploma (LTCL) for both the violin and the piano, with distinction. She also has her ABRSM Violin Grade 8 (Distinction), ABRSM Piano Grade 8 (Distinction), and her RCM Grade 9 Piano (Distinction with Honours).
Shannon has the pleasure of having her piano studies with Carmen Morin and has participated and received awards at CPAF and Steinway Piano Competition under her tutelage.
She enjoys accompanying, collaborating with others, and performing in recitals through volunteer work. Shannon is excited to share her joy and passion for music as a teacher and/or accompanist with the students in the wonderful Morin Music Community.
Krista Suzanne McGinn – PianoKrista Suzanne started Suzuki violin at age 5, then Yamaha piano group lessons. Private teachers included Magda Hazai in Calgary at Mount Royal College Academy (now MRU Academy) towards exams and festival competitions; Pierre Souvairan, Toronto, Ontario (towards RCM – ARCT), and Dr. Marnie Van Weelden (Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, Ontario) towards her Bachelors of Music in piano performance in 2021.
Also earlier earning her RCM Licentiate Diploma in 2018, and Music Therapy Diploma from Capilano University, North Vancouver, BC, Krista Suzanne utilizes these calming tools near the end of lessons (playing improvised duets on the black pentatonic keys with students or accompanying songs on her flute). Moving back to her roots from Ontario to Alberta, Krista Suzanne looks forward to teaching at Morin Music and collaborating with students and faculty.
Krista Suzanne’s teaching philosophy is to tie together all aspects of music (ideally in every lesson if even for a moment but usually over time): rhythm, solfege, composer/era, hand choreography/body mapping, memorization mapping, recording on cell, improvisation, composition, etc. As well, to focus on singing the music inside when you are playing. Like concert pianist Stephen Hough says, “the music needs to resonate at least with one person”.
Any level or age of student is welcome. Krista Suzanne enjoys teaching younger children (through sequential pentachord hand positions & visuals), arranging favourite songs for preteen/teens and providing keyboard Youtubes (if unable to read music well), producing arrangements of some of the classics for intermediate students, and the highly motivated exam & competition-routed students (Krista Suzanne resonates too with long hours of practice in reaching the zone of nimble fingers). Music is a gift to give away. Soli deo Gloria.
Matthew Beaubien – GuitarWith a Master of Music Degree in classical guitar performance, and with over 15 years of teaching and performing experience, Matthew enthusiastically shares his knowledge, skills, and passion for music with students. His friendly and relaxed manner puts students at ease, and lessons are both fun and goal-oriented.
Matthew is comfortable with students of all ages, and has the versatility to teach most styles of guitar including folk, jazz, rock, blues, funk, and classical. For younger students, he strongly emphasizes developing the fundamental skills of reading music notation and theory along with learning the techniques of playing. He works with each student to set goals, whether it is to pass their next Royal Conservatory exams, or to ‘just strum a few chords’, learn to improvise, develop songwriting skills, refine technique, etc., and he personalizes projects and repertoire to suit each student’s unique objectives.
He studied jazz guitar at MacEwan university in Edmonton with Bob Cairns before studying with Ralph Maier at Mount Royal University (obtaining the final Diploma in classical guitar performance to be bestowed by that institution), and at the University of Calgary where he obtained both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. He received several academic grants and awards, and In 2015 he was a recipient of the prestigious Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council’s Joseph Armand Bombardier Canada Graduate Scholarship.
He has performed in masterclasses with several notable classical guitarists, including Xuefei Yang, Pavel Steidl, Emma Rush, Alexander Dunn, Jerome Ducharme, Jeff McFadden, Marc Teicholz, Johannes Möller and others, and he has performed at hundreds of weddings and other events in and around Calgary.
Agata Skulimowska – PianoAgata Skulimowska, originally from Poland, fell in love with Fryderyk Chopin’s music as a child. Every minute spent with his masterpieces was so special, that at age of twelve she decided to start her music education.
In 2017 she finished her Bachelor studies at The Fryderyk Chopin University of Music in Warsaw, Poland under professor Krzysztof Jablonski’s guidance. To continue her education and broaden the musical experience, she moved to Calgary in 2019 and joined Advanced Performance Program at Mount Royal University Conservatory. Right now, Agata is taking Master of Music Program at University of Calgary in Dr. Jani Parsons’ class.
Agata is laureate of national and international piano competitions in Europe. She has taken part in many masterclasses and music festivals around the world, including places like Poland, Denmark, Japan, Rome and Canada. In order to further improve her pianistic and pedagogic skills, she has worked with acclaimed pianists and piano professors including Eugen Indjic, Sasha Starcevich, David Moroz, Tobias Koch, Janusz Olejniczak, Nikolai Demidenko and Alexander Braginsky.
Along with her passion for solo performances, Agata is also a part of a chamber ensemble and an accompanist for Chamber Choir and University Chorus.
Christine Sul – PianoBorn in Korea, Yun Seo (Christine) Sul started piano at the age of 6. Ever since, she has demonstrated an avid interest and facility for the instrument. In Korea, she studied with Prof. Taehee Park and attended the prestigious Busan Arts High School. Christine completed her
Bachelor’s of Music at the University of Calgary where she studied with Prof. J. Marilyn Engle.
Christine’s focus as a musician has been primarily directed towards performance, and has become the first prize winner and laureate of dozens of piano competitions in Korea such as the Busan Joongang Piano Competition and the Changwon International Meister Competition, where she earned first prizes.
Christine had her debut with an orchestra in 2008, when she performed Mozart with the Solist Volgograd Orchestra. In 2020, Christine became the finalist of the Concerto Competition, where she was set to perform with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra prior to the COVID-19 closures. In 2020 Christine became the Prairies Favourite for the 19-25 years old division of the Canadian Music Competition.
Christine has also become a regular attendee of international piano festivals held in Portugal such as the 2018 and 2020 edition of the Coimbra World Piano Meeting and the 2019 edition of the Sardoal International Piano Meeting, where she has participated in masterclasses with renowned professors from around the world, as well as performing in public concerts. Christine’s excellence has made her the recipient of several scholarships and awards.
Beyond her interests in solo playing, Christine is also an experienced accompanist, having served as the principal pianist for the Calgary Korean Baptist Church from 2013 to the present. She has also worked in a variety of ensemble groups.
As a teacher, Christine is adamant in conglomerating the variety of styles in teaching and playing she has experienced throughout her life in order to provide well rounded and thorough instruction to her students.
Adam Pettigrew – Piano, Double BassAdam Pettigrew started playing piano at the age of six and double bass when he was 14. Growing up, he went through the Music for Young Children program, and later went on to complete his RCM Grade 10 examination, studying piano under Peter Rudzik and Tim Janz for Theory and History. During this time, Adam competed in the Calgary Performing Arts Festival where he won first prize in the 20th Century and Late-Romantic classes. He recently completed his Bachelor of Music at the University of Calgary where he studied under Marilyn Engle and Lana Henchell.
In 2018 and 2020, Adam participated in the Coimbra World Piano Meeting where he studied with world class educators, among which were Aquiles Delle Vigne and Makoto Ueno.
Adam performs regularly as a bassist with the Rocky Mountain Symphony Orchestra and Civic Orchestra, while also playing jazz in freelance settings and with his combo, the Sidewinders. In 2019, he was the bassist for the Timepoint Ensemble in the Banff and Calgary productions of Ghost Opera.
As a teacher, Adam strives to ignite a love for music in his students and believes that anybody can achieve great heights through hard work and dedication.
Teresa Serafini – PianoCalgary-born pianist Teresa Serafini is the second-youngest in a musical family of seven children. Being surrounded by music from infancy, she had a natural affinity for it when she started taking piano lessons at age four. From 2005-2016, Teresa studied piano with Marianne Bleile, before starting lessons with Marilyn Engle in 2016, whom she continues to study with. Teresa also studied at the Mount Royal University Conservatory’s Academy of Music for Gifted Youth from 2010-2015. During her time at the academy, she played for many guest artists, including Catherine Ordronneau, Jean-Paul Sevilla, Gabriela Montero, Helmut Brauss, Jin Zhang, and Dmitry Nesterov. In 2020, Teresa also participated in the Coimbra World Piano Meeting in Portugal, where she received lessons from several world-class musicians from Europe and Asia.
During her years at the academy, Teresa began to discover her enjoyment of collaborative music, playing in chamber groups and with vocalists. Between November 2014 and February 2016, she volunteered as an accompanist for the St. Peter’s Players’ productions of Steven Sondheim’s musical, Into the Woods, and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Wizard of Oz. She also provided live accompaniment for ballet classes at Ballet School Lakeview in 2015-2017, and has played at Fun ‘N’ Dance, another Calgary ballet studio, since 2018. From September 2018 to June 2019, Teresa was a piano accompanist for the Calgary Music Academy Outreach Program, playing with the students in regular masterclasses and monthly public performances. She has also taught piano and accompanied at the Calgary Music Academy Centre’s Summer Music Camp in 2019 and 2021.
Teresa is currently in her third year at the University of Calgary, studying Piano Performance, after which she intends to pursue a Master’s degree in Collaborative Piano. Having competed regularly in music competitions growing up, she has received numerous awards and scholarships from the Mount Royal University Conservatory, the University of Calgary, the Contemporary Showcase, and the Calgary Performing Arts Festival. Teresa has also performed as a four-time national finalist in the Canadian Music Competition. Over the years, she has gained a wide range of experience in solo performance, chamber music, accompaniment (strings, vocal, musical theatre, ballet), background music, and teaching.
In her free time, Teresa enjoys many hobbies including painting with her mother, cooking, birdwatching, playing bridge, and searching for obscure classical composers with her oldest brother. She is also passionate about sharing music with others, and enjoys playing the piano for family and friends and at nursing homes during the holidays.
Juliette Sallé – Junior Instructor, PianoJuliette was born and raised in Calgary and has been playing music from a very early age. She started playing piano in pre-school, and is currently completing her grade 9 Royal Conservatory of Music. She received first class honours for her grade 8 exam, and plans on continuing piano until she completes the ARCT. She has always been passionate about music and was even involved in her school band since grade 4. She performed the flute at many music festivals and was part of the Junior Honour Band. Being guided by fantastic, reputable, high level teachers such as Dmitry Nesterov and Edwin Gnandt, Juliette has been able to perform piano at various recitals and talent shows, and is eager to pass the love of music to her students.
Juliette is currently completing her last year of school and is planning on pursuing computer science or astrophysics in university with a minor in music. Juliette understands how important and beneficial music is in life, and is thankful for the opportunity of teaching beginner students. She will work carefully with the students and will observe the way in which they learn in order to keep them guided and motivated for successful piano playing. Being fully immersed in young music learning, she understands the difficulties in playing, but also understands the amazing rewards and fun that music brings. It is a true privilege to finally be able to pass this love of music as a junior piano teacher at the Morin Music Community.
Esther Kim – Voice, PianoEsther (Soon-Young) Kim is a soprano, who studied at the University of Calgary (Bachelor of Music) and the City University of New York (Master of Music and Doctorate of Musical Arts). While she was in New York, she studied with Daniel Ferro, Patricia McCaffrey and Gäit Sirguey.
A highly-trained singer, educator and mentor she prides herself on being a compassionate, supportive and patient teacher able to help her students find their interest and talent in music to accomplish their potential.
Her students have been recognized having won local voice and piano competitions like Calgary Performing Arts (2019), Steinway Piano competition (2018), Dance Works (musical theatre- song and dance solo, 2019), Shy Ann Dance Festival (Musical theatre, 2019) and Wild Rose Dance Arts Competition (2019) in Calgary, Red Deer and Medicine Hat. They have accomplished high scores at RCM exams for voice, piano & music theory as well.
She has performed on many stages around the world, including the United States, Canada, Italy and Korea. She has appeared in Gianni Schicchi, Die Zauberflöte and Suor Angelica in the US and Italy. She has been singing cantatas and oratorios as a soloist with many choirs in the US and Canada.
Soon-Young is an active participant in diverse communities. She sang Claud Choi’s compositions in the concert We Are Together at the Jack Singer Concert Hall in Calgary to celebrate the friendship with Canada and Korea.
On behalf of Calgary, the Japanese consulate requested her to sing Canadian Anthem in 2015. That same year, she was also invited to the Calgary Korean Choir by the Korean Government to sing during for the celebration of the seventieth anniversary of Independence Day in Korea at the Seoul Arts Center.
In 2016, she sang in the United Methodist Church of Greater New Jersey, during the Annual Conference Clergy Meeting in the US.
She was invited to sing the National Anthem at Jack Singer’s Hall at the graduation ceremonies of Bow Valley College in 2018 and 2019.
Emily Haug – MusicologyA native Calgarian, Emily began lessons in classical piano at the age of five, introduced to music by her grandfather, an organist, choral conductor and Brass musician. Emily’s advanced studies in Piano with Dr. Peter Jancewicz at Mount Royal College continued where she completed Royal Conservatory Examinations in piano, history and theory, as well as competing in the Calgary Concerto Competition and the Calgary Kiwanis Festival, placing first and second in Classical and Twentieth-Century piano classes. Emily began post-secondary studies in music at Mount Royal College enrolled in the Piano Diploma Program where her passion turned towards studying Music History, inspiring her to transfer to the University of Calgary in 2002 to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Music.
As an undergraduate student, Emily continued to study classical piano with Dr. Charles Foreman alongside furthering her education in Music History with Dr. Victor Coelho and Dr. Kenneth DeLong. In addition to her studies at the University of Calgary, Emily maintained a private studio teaching piano lessons to both children and adults, guiding them through the Royal Conservatory Examinations in piano and history. Upon completion of her Bachelor’s degree, Emily went on to complete a Masters degree in 2014 in Historical Musicology from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, BC, studying history under Dr. Vera Micznik, Dr. David Metzer and Dr. Gregory Butler, and studying music theory (specifically Classical Form) under Dr. Willian Benjamin. After deciding to specialize in music of the Italian Renaissance, Emily completed a thesis paper on the topic of musical borrowing of sacred and secular poetry in fifteenth-century Florentine Carnival songs under the supervision of Dr. Alex Fisher. Returning to Calgary, Emily worked with the Calgary Performing Arts Festival from 2016 to 2019 as Festival and Registration Coordinator, where coordinating performers, production staff, and venue technicians and Adjudicators from across North America offer her a unique perspective of the real-world demands and circumstances of the performer.
Her teaching approach places a strong emphasis upon the knowledge of musical theory and music history. A specialist in advanced music history, Emily believes students gain valuable tools from learning about the people, places and cultures the music they perform was created within, tools that help them to successfully engage with and communicate their music to their listening audience.
N. Andrew Polachuk – Piano
Lev Nesterov – ViolinA versatile artist, Lev Nesterov is a chamber and orchestral musician, arranger, teacher, arts administrator and concert presenter striving to create new artistic initiatives in the community.
As a violinist, Lev has performed throughout Canada at numerous music institutions, festivals and concert series, including Banff Centre for Arts & Creativity, Scotia Festival of Music, National Music Centre, and has recently made his solo and chamber recital debuts at National Art Centre’s Fourth Stage in Ottawa. Lev is a graduate of the universities of Ottawa and Calgary, where his principal teachers were Yehonatan Berick, Joan Barrett and Edmond Agopian. In post-graduate studies, Lev completed a diploma in Arts Administration and Cultural Management at Toronto’s Humber College. Lev is also the founder and artistic director of the Ottawa Winter Music Festival and Peaks + Prairies Productions in Calgary.
Emilia Tzaneva – PianoEmilia was born in Bulgaria, Eastern Europe where she graduated in a High school, specialised in Music education and Piano performance.
Emilia continued her post-secondary education in the National Academy of Music “Pancho Vladigerov”, which is the only one university for professional musicians in Bulgaria and includes the full spectrum of musical, theoretical and performance majors.
Upon moving to Canada in 2002, Emilia advanced her teaching certification through the University of Calgary and received her teaching certification through Alberta Education.
Her teaching experience includes classroom teaching in the Alberta school system using Kodaly Method and Orff, as well private piano instruction to students of all levels and backgrounds. She is an active member the Alberta Registered Music Teacher’s Association (ARMTA).
With over 20 years of teaching, Emilia believes that Music is beneficial for everyone. She believes that music is not only a powerful influence on human beings, but is also meant to be fun.
She shares:
“From my personal experience as a teacher I know that we can find a song that my student likes, because music is like an ocean. I love to teach. I can see my students grow and they enjoy playing. For the last couple of years I’ve enjoyed working with people who want to play not only classical music, but also pop and jazz. Playing different genres of music gives you the opportunity to know what you like.”
Grace Shukuda – Junior Instructor/Practice Partner, PianoGrace Shukuda began her piano studies at the age of two with Dan Morin. With Dan’s tailored learning, Grace had the privilege of laying a foundation of musical development through both Suzuki as well as Royal Conservatory pedagogy. Grace continued her studies with Simon Morin and is currently working towards the completion of her Grade Ten Royal Conservatory Exam. Through volunteering in group and private music classes with Jen Shukuda, Grace has developed a knowledge around the importance of meeting a child where they are at and guiding the learning according to their specific needs.
Partaking in a variety of local charity performance galas, Grace understands both the pressure and privilege of public performance. Grace’s entire life has been immersed in the musical culture of the Morin Music Community and she is grateful to be now joining this incredible team as a teacher.
Alana has been working in the visual design world since 2002, working at communications companies as a graphic and web designer and also as the principal and lead designer of her own company for the majority of her career. Alana has developed a wide variety of printed and interactive marketing material for a diverse group of clients including large companies, start-ups and local and national not-for-profit organizations, such as Genome Alberta, Canadian Red Cross, SAIT Polytechnic, Alberta Easter Seals, etc.).
Along the years Alana has pursued different passions, notably as a yoga teacher, but she has always come back to her love of visual communication. Alana joined the Morin Music team in 2019 and has had her kids in music lessons here ever since!
Daniel Szefer – Piano, TheoryIn February 2020, he performed Chopin’s Concerto No.2 with the Calgary Philharmonic for their PhilKids Benefit concert. That same month, he was a Quarter-Finalist in the National Chopin Competition in Miami, FL.
He has had masterclasses under artists such as Rafal Blechacz, Yoheved Kaplinsky, Robert McDonald, Garrick Ohlsson, Dang Thai Son, Jeffrey Swann, Dame Fanny Waterman, Llyr Williams, and among others. Daniel previously studied with Alexander Zintchenko, Pawel Checinski, and was a student of Ralph Neiweem at The Academy of the Music Institute of Chicago, a pre-college program for talented young musicians.His current teacher is Prof. Krzysztof Jablonski at the University of Calgary.As a teacher, he is very passionate about teaching his students the importance of quality work and finding joy in that process, regardless of genre or style.
Nicolas Luzzi – Saxophone, ClarinetNicolas Luzzi is an aspiring young saxophonist studying music at the University of Calgary with Dr. Jeremy Brown. Growing as a performer, Nicolas has enjoyed playing with the University of Calgary’s Jazz Orchestra and Wind Ensemble. Recently he took part in the premiering of brand-new Canadian works at a prestigious North American saxophone conference with the UofC Saxophone Octet.
Nicolas has attended masterclasses with professional North American saxophonists such as Kenneth Radnofsky and Timothy McAllister.
Nicolas is a hard-working musician, always focused on improving his technique, knowledge of repertoire, and general saxophone pedagogy. Passionate about learning and self-improvement, he is currently studying clarinet and flute in his spare time.
Kathleen De Caen – CelloGrowing up in Edmonton, Kathleen de Caen started playing the cello at age 5. Her primary teachers were Grazyna Sobieraj, Julie Amundsen, and Tanya Prochazka; with whom she completed a Bachelor’s degree at the University of Alberta. She later went on to complete a Master’s degree in cello performance with Matt Haimovitz at McGill University.
As a soloist, she has been invited to perform with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra on multiple occasions for their education series. Kathleen was also the featured young artist of the ESO’s 2012 Symphony Under the Sky series.
As a chamber musician, Kathleen has performed across North America with musicians such as Yehonatan Berick, Jean Efflam-Bavouzet and Paul Coletti. She has participated numerous times with Matt Haimovitz’s ensemble, Uccello, who performed at Carnegie Hall in 2013. In 2016, Kathleen co-founded Trio De Moda, an Alberta based string trio that has performed across Alberta and the Maritime provinces.
Kathleen was acting principal cello of Symphony Nova Scotia, in Halifax, for the 2017/2018 series but is very excited to be back in Alberta and a section cellist in the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra since 2018.
During her free time, Kathleen loves to be outside with friends; biking, hiking and checking out Calgary’s prolific bakery scene.
Edmund Chung – ViolinEdmund Chung first began his violin studies at the age of four in Hong Kong. He continued his studies with Shirley Givens at The Juilliard School in the pre-college division when he was 7 years old. At the age of 18 while studying with Toni Stanick, he was the grand prize winner of CMC (’08). He completed his Bachelor’s (’15) and Master’s Degree (’17) at the University of British Columbia, where he studied with Professor David Gillham. He then spent a year in Bergen, Norway, studying with David Stewart (’17–’18).
Edmund attended music festivals such as the Heifetz Institute, Orford Music, Greenwood, and Le Domaine Forget. He was also a fellow at Tanglewood Music Center for two summers (’17, ’18), where he served as Concertmaster and Assistant Concertmaster. Before joining the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, Edmund was a regular substitute for the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra and the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra.
Erinn Komschlies – ClarinetErinn Komschlies is a clarinetist and teacher living in the Yukon Territory. Originally from the United States, Erinn received her Bachelor of Music degree in music education from St. Olaf College in Minnesota, studying clarinet with Jun Qian and Scott Anderson. She was principal clarinet of the St. Olaf Orchestra and St. Olaf Band, ensembles that toured across the United States and Europe. She was also
nominated for membership in Pi Kappa Lambda, the only nationally recognized music honors society in America.
Erinn completed her Master’s degree in clarinet performance at Southern Illinois University, where she studied with world-renowned composer and clarinetist Eric Mandat. At SIU, she was principal clarinet of both the Southern Illinois Symphony and Wind Ensemble. She rounded out her performance experience by participating in the university’s free improvisation group every semester and completing an independent research, performance, and presentation project on Klezmer music. She continued her study of Klezmer music as an artist-in-residence at Jenni House in Whitehorse, Yukon in 2020.
Erinn is passionate about sharing her love for music and has experience teaching students of all ages. She believes that with proper guidance, every student can accomplish their goals. She strives to create a comfortable atmosphere to make lessons both enjoyable and challenging.
Jasmine Morin – Crescendo KidsJasmine Morin is a passionate young musician who began her music career at the young age of three. As she played the piano under the tutelage of Dan Morin and Charles Foreman for 13 years. She has continued to develop her extensive interest in classical music through the learning of clarinet, trumpet and percussion instruments. Jasmine participates and is an active member of Western Canada High School’s well-regarded Junior Jazz Band and Symphonic Grade 11 Band. She is currently learning and continues to develop her understanding of piano at the Royal Conservatory of Music and is now learning at the Grade 10 level.
Jasmine is an engaged, focused individual who enjoys sharing her love for classical music and piano.
Ben Lahring – GuitarBorn in Canada and raised on the tropical northern coast of Australia, Ben has lived a nomadic life and called many cities home — a diversity of life experience which is reflected in the music he creates. After earning his Bachelor of Music (classical guitar performance) in Sydney, Australia, Ben moved to NYC where he taught guitar at the NY Conservatory of Music, LREI and the 92nd Street Y.
Over the last couple of decades Ben has performed classical recitals, gigged with soul singers and rock bands, conducted orchestras and choirs, played weddings, birthdays and funerals, and even worked in churches as Music Director and Worship Pastor. Through it all he’s taught countless guitar lessons in schools, studios and private residences, doing whatever he can to share the joy of music and fan to flame the creative spark that lives in each of us.
Serena Yeung – Voice, Piano
Jessica Lui – Piano
Dr. Lana Henchell – Senior InstructorCalgary native, Lana Henchell, obtained her Doctoral degree in piano performance from McGill University under the tutelage of Richard Raymond. She received both her undergraduate and graduate degrees in piano performance with Marilyn Engle at the University of Calgary. She has been the recipient of several awards and grants from the Alberta Foundation for the Arts, the Canada Council for the Arts, the Max Stern Foundation and the Calgary Kiwanis Music Festival (Rose Bowl, 1994).
Lana made her orchestral début with the Calgary Civic Symphony at the age of 13, and has since performed as soloist with several orchestras including the University of Calgary Orchestra, the Calgary Civic Symphony, the Montreal Chamber Orchestra and the McGill Symphony.
She has received top prizes in competitions such as the International Stepping Stone of the Canadian Music Competitions, the Stravinsky Awards International Piano Competition and the Shean Piano Competition. Her First Prize win at the Eckhardt-Gramatté National Piano Competition (for contemporary Canadian music) lead to a six-week concert tour across Canada.
Some performance highlights include concerts at the Alberta Scene Festival (Ottawa; featured on CBC Radio Two), L’Académie Musicale Internationale (France) and the World Coimbra Piano Meeting (Portugal). Most recently, she won the Piano Duo Special Prize “Francis Poulenc” at the 2018 Coimbra World Piano Competition with her duo partner, Carmen Morin.
In addition to performing, Lana teaches privately and at the University of Calgary. She is an avid adjudicator—offering masterclasses and clinics around the province. In recent years, she has served as a juror for the Honens ProAm Piano Competition and the Canadian Music Competitions, held across Canada. Recently, she began a performance and touring program—Soundboard Music Tour—which offers educational enrichment to aspiring musicians and brings music to unique and remote areas across Alberta.
Lidia Lee – Violin, PianoHae Ju (Lidia) Lee started her musical journey with piano at the age of 6 and violin at the age of 9. She completed her Bachelors (‘15) and Masters Degree (‘17) on scholarship at the University of British Columbia where she majored in violin performance under the tutelage of David Gillham. The following year, she studied abroad in Bergen, Norway, with David Stewart, the Concertmaster of the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra.
Over the years, she has participated in numerous orchestral/chamber music festivals, such as the Tanglewood Music Festival as a Violin Fellow for two summers (‘17 and ‘18), Orford Arts Centre Festival/Orchestra, Le Domaine Forget, and Camp Musical des Laurentides. Lidia has served as the Concertmaster and Principal Second of University of British Columbia Symphony Orchestra. She was also Principal Second of the Orford Academy Orchestra in the summer of 2016.
Although Lidia obtained degrees in violin performance, she holds her Grade 10 RCM Certificate in piano and occasionally accompanied her colleagues in her violin studio class at UBC. She has also participated and received awards with piano at the Kiwanis Music Festival and Burnaby Clef Music Society.
Lidia is currently an active substitute member of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra. She was also a First Violin member of the Vancouver Metropolitan Orchestra and a substitute member of Opera Bergen during her stay in Norway.
Kara Friesen – Voice, PianoSoprano Kara Friesen developed a first-hand love for Canadian music by premiering piano quartets by Canadian composer Christine Donkin. Her early musical studies included Kodály programs and RCM piano, and expanded to include RCM voice. She received her ARCT in piano performance in 2014, often attaining scholarships for both voice and piano in her local Grande Prairie festival. An active performer of Canadian vocal music, Miss Friesen received a scholarship from the 2018 Contemporary Showcase, a festival dedicated entirely to new Canadian music.
Kara has also received scholarships at Calgary’s Songfest (2019, 2018) and the Grande Prairie and District Encana Music Festival (Grand Prize: Encana Award, 2015). She was selected as a vocalist for the Ambrose Concerto Concert (2019, 2018) and has sung in masterclasses with Dawn Johnson and Robert Herriot (Calgary Opera, 2018) and Xin Wang (Palliser Music, 2016).
As a chorister, she performed in Menotti’s Amahl and the Night Visitors (Ambrose University, 2018), recorded and toured with the Ambrose Chamber Singers, and currently sings with Harmony through Harmony, a social justice choir.
Through her teaching, Miss Friesen seeks to show students what both themselves, as well as music, are capable of. She does this by making day to day lives more intentional, productive, and creative through consistent interaction with and practice of music.
Holding a B.Mus after studying under Dr. Rachel Goldenberg at Ambrose University in Calgary, Kara celebrates the success of both her recent senior recital and participation in Opera NUOVA, and looks forward to entering the NATSAA competition this fall.
Sophie Jang – PianoSophie Jang started playing piano at the age of five in Korea, where she also took violin and flute lessons. After moving to Canada, she received the Advanced RCM Certificate (Performer’s) for piano, then studied in Bachelor of Music program at the University of Calgary with renowned professor Marilyn Engle. Sophie participated in the Coimbra World Piano Meeting and performed for several world-famous professors and performing artists from around the world where she experienced various international teaching styles of music.
Sophie enjoys accompanying and collaborating with others. In addition to solo performances, Sophie has performed extensively with both large and small ensembles including a variety of chamber groups, University of Calgary wind ensemble and symphonic band.
Hollman began his musical beginnings at the piano, and soon after added violin to his palette. He accelerated through the RCM curriculum and holds advanced certificates in piano and violin. He went on to attain a Bachelor of Arts in Music with a minor in Mathematics. Hollman is an active musician who has performed on many stages, whether it be banquets or competitions. He also helped raised funds as a performer for the 2009 Tsunami in Thailand. As a pianist,he regularly accompanies many artists and has premiered several works from many composers.
Aside from the piano, Hollman is also very active in the ensemble setting. He has played with many ensembles including the University of Calgary Orchestra, and was named section leader in the University of Calgary Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, and Echos Chamber Orchestra. He has also been invited to perform with the highly prestigious Alberta Winds.
Outside his instrumental prowess, Hollman is also an rising conductor. He was chosen to be the assistant conductor of the University of Calgary Symphonic Band in 2016. He has also served as assistant conductor of the Dr. EP Scarlett Symphonic Band.
Hollman believes that the gift of music exists in everyone, and that the best reward is the spark of discovery between both teacher and student.
Cindy Zhang – Piano, Flute and GuitarAn avid musician since the age of 6, Cindy Zhang plays the piano, flute, and guitar. After receiving her ARCT in Piano Performance from the Royal Conservatory of Music, Cindy moved on to study with Charles Foreman at the University of Calgary.
Cindy is passionate about sharing music with others, whether it be through competitions and recitals, or out in the community. She regularly performs at senior homes, leads the occasional sing-along, and recently founded a summer music camp for underprivileged students with the Heart of the City Piano Program. Having learned countless life lessons through music, she wants to make music an opportunity for self-discovery for her students as well.
Alongside her studies in music, Cindy is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience at the University of Calgary. Driven by a fascination with molecular intricacies, she has spent several summers conducting neuroscience research both at home and abroad.
Jacinta Green began her piano studies at age 6 under Cherry Baines and cello at age 9, under Carlisle Wilson. As a regular competitor in the Cowichan Valley Music Festival and the Greater Victoria Performing Arts Festival, Jacinta has won many awards and scholarships and has also been nominated from both to compete in Performing Arts BC. At age 19, she was also chosen to perform the Elgar Cello Concerto with the Victoria Civic Orchestra, under Giuseppe Pietraroia. The past two summers, Jacinta was chosen to participate in the National Youth Orchestra of Canada, which involved a cross-Canada tour as well as a tour that took the orchestra to Germany and Scotland, performing in some of the world’s finest concert halls.
Prior to university, Jacinta was a member of the Victoria Conservatory of Music’s Collegium Program for young musicians, during which she was a member of the Divertente String Quartet. As a member of the quartet, she placed first in Performing Arts BC and participated in the Saltspring Island Chamber Festival led by David Visentin and Kai Gleusteen. One of Jacinta’s most inspirational experiences in chamber music was her participation as a member of the New West Trio in Calgary Pro Musica’s Young Artists Development Program. As participants, the trio had the incredible opportunity to work with some of the greatest chamber groups from around the world, including the Jerusalem String Quartet and the London Haydn Quartet. In addition, the trio was given a unique opportunity to work with Education Adviser and Teaching Artist, Samantha Whelan-Kotkas, with whom they prepared and presented outreach performances for Calgary elementary schools.
Jacinta has become increasingly interested in working with young children, specifically in musical education. While completing her degree, she assisted cello pedagogue, Johanne Perron, in the Early Childhood Strings Program at the Mount Royal Conservatory, where children aged four to seven years old were introduced to the basics of cello and violin playing. Jacinta’s participation in Calgary Pro Musica’s Young Artists’ Development Program also helped nurture this interest, as she learned techniques on how to engage young audiences on different musical topics. Jacinta is excited to continue pursuing her passion in spreading the gift of music as an instructor at Morin Music Studio.
Jacinta holds a Bachelor in Music from the University of Calgary and is currently entering her second year of the Bachelor in Elementary Education at St. Mary’s University in Calgary. She has also completed the Advanced Performance Program at the Mount Royal University Conservatory, under John Kadz and Johanne Perron, and holds Grade 10 Royal Conservatory certificates in both piano and cello.
NaEun Ashley Ko began playing piano at age of 4 with her mother who was a renowned piano teacher in South Korea. She started taking flute lessons at age of 9, and continued her musical talent in flute after she moved to Canada, studying with Lauren Eselson, Gwen Klassen and Camille Churchfield. Ashley participated in Academy Program at Mount Royal Conservatory for several years, where she worked with world-class flutists such as Jim Walker and Peter Lloyd. She also took a part in the Pender Island Flute Retreat in 2014 where she spent a week with Lorna McGhee and William Bennett. Ashley pursued excellence of her musical training by achieving Diploma in Music Performance (Mount Royal University), Bachelor in Music Performance (University of Calgary), and Master of Music (University of Ottawa).
As the daughter of a renowned piano teacher in South Korea, Ashley excelled in her studies as a pianist. Reaching the advanced levels at a very young age, she performed advanced works of Schumann, Chopin as an active pianist and performer before later extending her studies to include the flute.
As a talented flutist, Ashley has demonstrated her outstanding flute performance by winning numerous awards, scholarships and competitions throughout Canada. Most remarkable honors are: Marley Rynd Memorial Performance Scholarship from Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, the Most Lyrical Performance at the National Music Festival in Montreal, the Final round of University of Calgary Concerto Competitions, and Rose Bowl of the Calgary Kiwanis Music Festival (former name of Calgary Performing Arts Festival). As she participated in the Calgary Kiwanis Music Festival for 5 years, she was recommended to the Provincial Festival, and honorably represented Alberta at the National Music Festival.
Her efforts were rewarded with opportunities to play concerti with Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, Calgary Youth Orchestra and University of Calgary Orchestra. Ashley’s musical teaching career started in her late teenage years, and continued developing and broadening her skills in education through her private and group lessons.
Over the past years, her passion for music teaching has grown and her teaching skills have been continuously enhanced by supporting her students with meaningful lessons as a dedicated and active teacher in Calgary as well as for summer programs such as Valhalla Summer School of Music in British Columbia. An experienced instructor working with piano and flute students of all ages as well as young beginners, she believes in the importance of developing a strong foundation.
As a music instructor at Morin Music Studio, Ashley’s teaching philosophy is to spark student’s interest to get engaged in learning, to give pleasure in playing and learning music, and to develop their musical skills through inspiring creativity and applying logical practice methods.
Alix Tucker began her classical training in piano at the age of three. She quickly became immersed in the instrument, participating in group lessons, master classes, and Suzuki music camps. Alix was one of the earliest students of Carmen Morin, where she progressed through the Royal Conservatory of Music grades, receiving First Class Honours or higher in all of her practical exams. Alix also participates in numerous music festivals,including the Kiwanis/Calgary Performing Arts Festival, often winning awards.
Outside of piano, Alix enjoys playing trumpet and keyboard in many bands both in and outside of school, having been a recent member of the Calgary Round-Up Band, playing the trumpet. Alix has played the piano in the pit band for her school’s production of Les Miserables and has participated in both the Senior High Jazz Band and her in-school concert band at Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School. Alix has also worked as a tutor for the Morin Music Studio, helping students gain strong practice habits and confidence with the piano. Because of her extensive involvement in her school arts programs, Alix was awarded the Forever Woods Jeffrey Trickett scholarship for music and academics at Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School.
Alix is excited to share her passion for music with other young people. Music has been a great part of her life and she wants to share her love of music with others.