Specializing in:

• Advanced Studies in Piano Performance & Music Theory​

• Crossover Pianists: Classical repertoire and skills in tandem with contemporary music

• Creative Musicians: Composition, Arranging, Improvising, Artistry

• Music Praxialism: Connecting music and life skills -- How does music and its related skills help you in your future endeavors, music or other?

• Older Students

  • Although, I do teach students of all ages, the majority of my students are
    Middle & High School Students

  • Adult Students (of all ages and levels)

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I currently teach a full studio (including many adult students!).  I am actively involved in many professional music teacher associations (see below).

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I grew up in Honolulu, Hawaii and began piano lessons at the age of six.  I performed in countless studio recitals, Christmas concerts, mall performances, evaluations, and competitions.  I also played the tenor saxophone in middle and high school, performing in the Wind Ensemble, Marching Band (performed at the Holiday Bowl), Jazz Band, Solo & Ensemble Festival, and the All-State Marching Band, which performed in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.  I always thoroughly enjoyed making music at every opportunity possible.

 

I graduated with honors from UCLA with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychobiology.  
I thought I was going to be a pharmacist.  Yet, I kept finding myself in new musical endeavors --
I was always led back to music.

 

I spent the next three years on the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program in Nara, Japan.  My musical experiences expanded even more as I helped my school's concert band in competitions and also helped organize a performance in the annual JETNet International Arts Festival, which highlighted the arts and international exchange between the Japanese people and foreigners.

 

It is this passion for music that led me into it full time.  Why not make something you already willingly do so much into a career?  And so here I am.  I later completed my Master's in Music Education at San José State University.

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My breadth of experience outside of music has helped me to relate with students in how to connect music with their own lives.  You can read more about my specific teaching philosophy in the "Why GK Piano?" tab.  Also, check out my YouTube channel!

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You can also view my resume to see certifications, awards, professional organization leadership positions, and more.

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