The Teachers

Meet Dr. Christopher Janwong McKiggan, an esteemed pianist whose extraordinary artistry has earned him multiple awards and accolades. Beyond his musical brilliance, Dr. McKiggan is a compassionate mentor, shaping young artists’ lives through his dedication to teaching and his profound belief in personalized education.

With a reputation that precedes him, Dr. McKiggan’s piano performances have been hailed as “masterful, highly contrasted and sharply characterized” by Gramophone. As the co-founder and head faculty of the Piano Academy of Bangkok, he has played a pivotal role in nurturing young talents, guiding them to win hundreds of national and international awards.

Beyond the concert hall, Dr. McKiggan’s creative pursuits extend to the realm of filmmaking and producing. As the CEO of Chris the Pianist Productions, he has garnered numerous awards for his directorial and production ventures, creating music videos, documentaries, and commercials for renowned brands such as AIS and Yamaha. Notably, his feature-length Thai documentary, “Pain of Silence,” has received multiple accolades from international film festivals, including the esteemed Best Documentary award at the BAFTA qualifying film festival, Carmarthan Bay Film Festival.

The musical talents of Dr. McKiggan extend even further as a composer, with some of his compositions being distributed by Universal Music Thailand. His artistic prowess and dedication have left a profound impact on the world of music and filmmaking.

Reflecting on his journey, Dr. McKiggan acknowledges the transformative influence of three esteemed professors: Bennet Lerner, Robert Weirich, and Jon Kimura Parker. Each played a pivotal role in shaping his artistic and musical growth, paving the way for his successful career.

As a teacher, Dr. McKiggan’s philosophy revolves around recognizing the unique strengths and skill sets of each young artist. He tailors his teaching methods to suit each individual’s needs, allowing them to progress at their own pace. His flexible and caring approach to mentorship has helped countless students blossom into true musicians.

In his illustrious career, Dr. McKiggan realized that his most significant achievements lie beyond personal accolades. The joy and smiles on his students’ faces when they perform stand as the truest testament to his impact as a mentor. Witnessing their growth and happiness eclipses all other achievements.

Among his favorite performers, Dr. McKiggan admires the artistry of Emanuel Ax, Yuja Wang, and the legendary Freddie Mercury. Their unique styles and powerful performances inspire him in his musical journey.

Driven by his compassionate spirit, Dr. McKiggan chooses to support the humanitarian project Doctors Without Borders. Recognizing the organization’s dedication to providing medical care to those in need worldwide, he advocates for their vital work in saving lives and alleviating suffering.

Dr. Christopher Janwong McKiggan’s multifaceted journey encompasses excellence in music, dedication to teaching, and a genuine commitment to making a difference in the world. His remarkable achievements in music and film, coupled with his compassionate mentorship, make him an extraordinary artist and human being.

Allow us to introduce you to Vicente Martínez, a highly accomplished flutist, professor, and conductor who has left an indelible mark on the music landscape in Spain. With a remarkable list of accolades, a deep commitment to teaching, and a passion for making a positive impact, Martínez exemplifies excellence as both a musician and a humanitarian.

Martínez currently holds the esteemed position of flute professor at the Royal Conservatory of Music in Madrid. Throughout their illustrious career, Martínez has had the privilege of performing with distinguished ensembles, including the Madrid Symphony Orchestra (Teatro Real) and the Spanish Radio and Television Orchestra. Additionally, Martínez has showcased their expertise as the musical director of the Spanish Lyric Company, leading captivating opera and zarzuela performances for over a decade.

Music runs deep in Martínez’s family, with their father serving as a celebrated flutist and their first teacher. Building upon this rich musical heritage, Martínez has been fortunate to learn from esteemed flutists such as Rafael López del Cid, P.L. Graf, Richard Graef, J.P. Rampal, J. Galway, Trevor Wye, Istvan Matusz, and many others. These influential mentors have played an integral role in shaping Martínez’s artistry and musical vision.

As an educator, Martínez embraces a teaching philosophy focused on achieving specific objectives. They understand that each student learns at their own pace and tailor their approach accordingly. The ultimate aim is to help students reach their highest potential while adapting to their individual abilities. Martínez’s dedication ensures that even the most challenging flute compositions can be interpreted with utmost excellence and grace.

Beyond their exceptional performance and teaching career, Martínez has an extensive discography comprising over 80 recorded CDs. Their musical contributions have also been featured in award-winning film scores, garnering recognition at prestigious events such as the Oscars, Goya Awards, and Cannes Film Festival. Martínez’s reputation as a sought-after soloist has led them to captivate audiences across the globe, while their conducting skills have earned them the privilege of leading Spain’s most esteemed orchestras.

Passionate about giving back to society, Martínez actively participates in solidarity projects focused on providing music education in underprivileged neighborhoods. Their involvement with the Juan Crisóstomo Arriaga Foundation exemplifies their commitment to nurturing young orchestras in Spain, allowing aspiring musicians to flourish and reach their full potential.

Martínez’s journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of music and its ability to uplift communities. Through their extraordinary talent, unwavering dedication to teaching, and philanthropic endeavors, Martínez continues to inspire aspiring musicians and music enthusiasts alike.

Introducing Sonia Yon, a celebrated lyric soprano with an illustrious musical journey that spans across Europe and Korea. Having performed in a wide range of opera roles, Sonia’s artistry and dedication have touched the hearts of audiences worldwide. Her influence as a teacher and commitment to empowering her students are equally noteworthy.

Sonia’s musical journey began with her graduation from Seoul National University in South Korea, where she honed her vocal skills. She furthered her education at the prestigious Giuseppe Verdi Conservatorio in Milan, Italy, earning a coveted diploma. This training laid the foundation for her remarkable career as a lyric soprano.

Throughout her illustrious career, Sonia Yon has graced the stage in numerous opera productions, taking on iconic roles such as “Tosca,” “Madame Butterfly,” “Aida,” “La Boheme,” “Le Nozze di Figaro,” “The Magic Flute,” “Un ballo in Maschera,” “Suor Angelica,” “Don Carlo,” “Romeo et Juliet,” and “La Traviata.” Her performances in Europe and Korea have earned her widespread acclaim and adoration from audiences and critics alike.

When reflecting on her journey, Sonia acknowledges the profound influence of two teachers who have shaped her artistry – Mrs. Corti and Mario Baragiola. Their unwavering passion for teaching and commitment to their students have left a lasting impact on Sonia’s approach to teaching and mentorship.

As a teacher, Sonia embraces a philosophy that singing should be an enjoyable experience. However, she also emphasizes the importance of understanding the composers’ intentions behind the songs. Each student possesses a unique instrument, and Sonia’s role as a teacher is to uncover and enhance their individual abilities, enabling them to reach their full potential.

Throughout her illustrious career, Sonia’s most significant achievement lies in her genuine love for singing and her ability to connect with audiences on a profound level. Her performances are not merely presentations of artistry but heartfelt conversations that bridge the gap between artist and audience. Portraying different characters in operas brings her immense joy, allowing her to immerse herself fully in the storytelling aspect of her craft.

Among the performers who inspire Sonia, Edita Gruberova holds a special place in her heart. Gruberova’s artistry and dedication to her craft have been a constant source of motivation for Sonia throughout her journey.

Beyond her musical accomplishments, Sonia Yon envisions a humanitarian project aimed at giving everyone the opportunity to embrace the art of music fully. Her desire is to empower individuals to discover the joy of singing, fostering a deeper appreciation for music and enriching their lives through this expressive art form.

As we celebrate Sonia Yon’s extraordinary journey of musical excellence and her dedication to teaching and empowerment, we are reminded of the transformative power of music and its ability to forge connections that transcend language and borders

The path to success is often paved with passion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to one’s craft. For Nurin Alyani, a graduate of the University Of Malaya, Malaysia, the journey began long before the accolades and international recognition. Rooted in a deep love for the performing arts and a strong academic background in Malay Studies (Malay Language), Nurin Alyani embarked on a mission to blend tradition with innovation and introduce the world to the mesmerizing art of caklempong performance.

Nurin Alyani’s academic journey took her through the hallowed halls of the University Of Malaya, where she honed her skills in Malay Studies. However, her true passion lays in the performing arts, a passion that had been nurtured since her school days. Nurin Alyani’s involvement in dance and musical performances during their school and university years laid the foundation for what would later become the acclaimed Lentera Kesuma (LKS) performance arts group.

As an individual with a rich background in both academics and the performing arts, Nurin Alyani envisioned a unique approach to the traditional art of caklempong performance. Drawing from her experiences and knowledge, she set out to create a performance arts group within their school. This visionary approach would set LKS on a path to redefine traditional music and captivate audiences worldwide.

LKS’s remarkable journey has been punctuated by a series of impressive achievements and prestigious awards. Their performances have resonated not only on the national stage but also on the global platform. One of their most notable achievements was a viral performance of Blackpink’s hit song, “DDU-DU DDU-DU,” played on traditional Malaysian instruments known as caklempong. This electrifying rendition captivated audiences worldwide, amassing an astonishing 6 million views on YouTube, making it a global sensation.

National Triumphs: Champions at Home

LKS’s exceptional performances in national competitions have consistently set them apart from their peers. They secured the championship title at FESMA (Traditional Music Carnival) in 2017, a testament to their dedication and talent. Additionally, they clinched Gold Awards at FKM (Malaysian Schools Music Arts Festival) in both 2018 and 2019, further solidifying their reputation as a force to be reckoned within the Malaysian music scene. In 2019, they once again emerged victorious at FESMA, reaffirming their status as champions.

LKS’s journey transcended national borders, earning them international acclaim and recognition. At the Music and Stars Awards 2023 in Estonia, they received the coveted Gold Star Chamber Music Award, Best Traditional Music Performance, Best Music School Award, and Best Chamber Music Teacher. This recognition highlighted their ability to seamlessly blend traditional and contemporary elements into a captivating musical experience.

Their international accolades continued with the First Prize at MUSE 2021 in Athens, Greece, and the Gold Star Winner title at the Music and Stars Award 2021 in Estonia. They also claimed the Gold Prize in the National Music category and the Artistic Visionary Special Award in the Beethoven International Music Competition 2023 in Germany. These achievements underscore LKS’s status as a global musical sensation.

LKS’s performances have left an indelible mark on audiences at various prestigious events. They have graced the stages of MRSM Got Talent 2022, the Launching Ceremony of Rural Development Policy 2030 at PICC with Tun Mahathir, the Korean Spring Festival 2019 in Puteri Harbour, Iskandar Puteri, Johor Bharu, MRSM Graduation Ceremonies, the Sulaman Kasih 2019 Program at One Utama Shopping Mall, and the Aspires Musical Concerts held in 2017, 2019, and 2022. Their talents were also appreciated at the Appreciation Ceremony of the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development at Le Meridien Putrajaya, Malaysia, where they performed alongside Mr. Zahid Hamidi.

Lentera Kesuma (LKS), under the visionary leadership and guidance of Nurin Alyani, has redefined traditional music and introduced it to a global audience. Her innovative approach, unwavering dedication, and commitment to excellence have earned her accolades on both national and international fronts. As Nurin Alyani continues to lead the way, we can only anticipate more captivating and groundbreaking performances that will continue to unite cultures and inspire generations to come.

In the vibrant halls of the British School Manila, a remarkable musical journey has been unfolding since 2004, guided by none other than Perpy Heath, a distinguished singing teacher whose passion for music and dedication to her students have left an indelible mark on the world of music education.

Perpy Heath’s journey in the realm of music is a testament to her unwavering commitment and unbridled passion. She is not only a respected member of the AMTL NYC (Associated Music Teachers League New York) but also holds membership in NATS (National Association of Teachers of Singing) in the United States. Her credentials and extensive experience have made her a sought-after mentor in the world of vocal education.

Central to Perpy’s teaching program at the British School Manila is a commitment to excellence. Since 2004, her students have had the privilege of being part of a program that is deeply rooted in musical traditions and innovation.

One of the cornerstones of her program is the affiliation with the Associated Board of Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM UK), where her students not only follow but also receive credentials. This affiliation is a testament to her dedication to providing her students with a comprehensive and globally recognized music education.

One of the hallmarks of Perpy Heath’s teaching philosophy is the belief that every student possesses untapped potential waiting to be unleashed. To this end, she actively encourages her students to participate in international music festivals, providing them with invaluable opportunities to showcase their talents on a global stage.

In the last two years, her students have achieved remarkable success, claiming the top three prizes in various age categories at renowned festivals such as the NYYPP NYC (New York Young Performers Prize), Vaya Music International Festivals in Vancouver, Vienna Virtuoso, Tokyo International Music Festivals, UK and London Music Festivals, the World Classical Music Festival, the Grand Prix of the European Classical Music Competition, and the North American Virtuoso, among others.

Perpy Heath attributes much of her success as an educator to her mentor, the Dean of Music in her Conservatory, Sr. Mary Placid, OSB. Sr. Mary instilled in her the values of hard work and the power of prayer, virtues that have become the foundation of her teaching philosophy. These values are the ones that Perpy is often caught quoting as a guiding light that she endeavors to pass on to each of her pupils.

Perpy Heath’s journey as a singing teacher at the British School Manila is a story of passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to nurturing musical talent. Her legacy is not only the awards and accolades won by her students but also the values of hard work, perseverance, and the belief in the limitless potential of young musicians that she imparts to each generation.

As Perpy continues to shape the future of music education, we can only anticipate more exceptional achievements and a continued dedication to nurturing the musical stars of tomorrow. Her story is a testament to the enduring power of music education and mentorship in shaping the world’s future artists and performers.

Prof. Krzysztof Komendarek-Tymendorf is an esteemed Polish musician who has inherited his musical talent from his family, including the renowned Polish composer Michał Kleofas Ogiński. He graduated with honors from the Stanisław Moniuszko Academy of Music in Gdańsk in the Master’s viola class of professor Irena Albrecht in 2012, and then perfected his skills at the Universität für Musik und darstellende Kunst Wien with Prof. Wolfgang Klos and Ulrich Schönauer. He also studied under eminent viola masters such as Alexander Zemtsov, Matthias Buchholz, Avri Levitan, György Gulyás Nagy, and Piotr Szumieł.

In 2019, Prof. Komendarek-Tymendorf graduated with honors from postgraduate studies in Culture Management in Government, Local Government and Non-Governmental Organizations at the Polish Academy of Sciences in Warsaw. He also defended his postgraduate MBA thesis at the Adam Mickiewicz University and the University of Economics in Poznan in 2021.

Prof. Komendarek-Tymendorf is a laureate of many music competitions, such as the Macroregional Competition for Young Violists in Warsaw and the 25th Young Musician International Competition ‘Città di Barletta’ in Italy. At the age of 24, he began teaching at his Alma Mater, where he currently works as an assistant professor in the viola and chamber music class. He defended his doctoral dissertation in 2018 and received a habilitation degree with honors in 2022. He also works as a nominated teacher in the viola class at the Zygmunt Noskowski Music School in Gdynia and is the national consultant for the Center for Artistic Education (CEA).

Prof. Komendarek-Tymendorf has made his debut as a soloist with the Polish Chamber Philharmonic Orchestra Sopot and as a chamber musician with the famous Polish oboist Tytus Wojnowicz in Tadeusz Baird Zielona Góra Philharmonic. He has been invited to perform concerts as a viola soloist with many well-known orchestras, including the National Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra in Warsaw, Polish Chamber Philharmonic Orchestra Sopot, the Lower Silesian Philharmonic, Kalisz Philharmonic Orchestra, Cappella Gedanensis, Sinfonietta Pomerania Orchestra, Progress Chamber Orchestra, Capella Bydgostiensis, Gdingener Symphonieorchester, Sinfonietta Pomerania, Baltic Youth Philharmonic, and the Chamber Orchestra of the Stanisław Moniuszko Music Academy. He has also worked as a soloist-leader of the viola section in many international symphony and chamber orchestras, including the RIAS Jugendorchester in Berlin and the Verler Vier Jahreszeiten Sinfonie Orchetser.

Prof. Komendarek-Tymendorf has performed under the baton of renowned conductors such as Pierre Boulez, Jerzy Maksymiuk, Krzysztof Penderecki, Marek Moś, and Tadeusz Strugała, as well as with prominent soloists including Ivry Gitlis, Kolja Blacher, Quatuor Ebène, Krystian Zimerman, Piotr Beczała, Konstanty Andrzej Kulka, and Łukasz Długosz. He has also learned chamber music from renowned musicians such as Valentin Erben (Alban Berg Quartett), Peter Schuhmayer (Artis Quartett), Apollon Musagète Quartet, and Ewa Kupiec. Additionally, Prof. Komendarek-Tymendorf has served on the juries of numerous national and international music competitions, including the Witold Lutosławski International Cello Competition in Warsaw.

In addition to his performing career, Prof. Komendarek-Tymendorf is a highly respected music educator. He has taught at the Fryderyk Chopin University of Music in Warsaw since 1994, where he currently serves as a professor and head of the cello department. He has also given masterclasses and workshops at numerous institutions around the world, including the Royal College of Music in London, the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing, and the Hochschule für Musik und Tanz Köln in Germany.

Prof. Komendarek-Tymendorf has received many awards and honors throughout his career, including the Medal for Merit to Culture – Gloria Artis from the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage of the Republic of Poland. He is also a member of the European String Teachers Association and the Polish Society of Contemporary Music.

Mr. Andy Tung Yee Tsun is a remarkable concert pianist, conductor, and educator who has made an indelible mark in the Chinese music industry. His unmatched talents have earned him a string of accolades from different parts of the world, including the coveted Winner of the Vienna International Conducting Competition and the Poland Chopin International Piano Festival.

With over 25 years of teaching and performing experience, Andy has become a distinguished music educator, evident in his numerous recognitions, including being named the best piano educator of the year by different music associations and organizations in over 20 countries.

Andy’s students have equally excelled in their craft, with over 100 awards and distinctions to their name, including 24 first prizes in international competitions and festivals. His track record of producing award-winning students speaks volumes about his exceptional pedagogical skills.

Beyond his achievements in the music industry, Andy has also enriched the lives of his students and the community through his various philanthropic initiatives. He is indeed a true embodiment of excellence and has earned his place as one of the most outstanding music educators in China.

Elisaveta Blumina is considered an outstanding representative of an entire generation of pianists, and not just since she was awarded the Echo Prize. In the music world, this highly unusual artist is also appreciated as a gifted mediator. In the meantime, 36 CDs have consolidated her reputation as an exceptional interpreter.

“I grew up in a family where music was extremely important. My mother is a concert pianist. My father, who worked as an engineer constructing space ships, also loved music. When he died, he left behind a huge collection of sheet music, music books, and vinyl recordings. Our house was a crossroads for musicians.

I left St Petersburg at the age of 19. In the beginning life was very difficult for me alone in Hamburg and I did not speak any German. I’ll never forget how I came to my teacher, Evgeni Koroliov, on a dark and grey November day and told him that I was home-sick. He dryly replied: “Go practice!”.

Andras Schiff is an extraordinary teacher… his lessons felt like magic. He was very critical and demanding, and has been instrumental in my progress. Radu Lupu is, as far as I know, not teaching much. I came to him on a recommendation by Koroliov and played for him at his London residence. I vividly remember how precise and critical he was. 

I come from the Heinrich Neuhaus School because all my teachers studied with him. Through my teaching activities I notice that many young musicians are more concerned with themselves than with the music. It should be clear to any musician that the music is centered around the composer and is not a vehicle for showing off. When a young musician has actually understood a piece of music, this is not only audible but very visible. The body language at the piano and the movements while playing are quite telling! Additionally, the current fashion of listening to many different versions of a given piece, such as on YouTube, can be very damaging. This makes it very easy to just copy other musicians without any real thought process. 

I have worked on many such humanitarian projects in my life. For example, I have raised money through countless charity events. I have done so again for the benefit of refugees from the Ukraine war, an issue which is important to me due to my own family having roots there. It is a joy for me to help people in need, as I think it is the quality that truly encapsulates being human.”

My name is Michelle Hsieh and I am a piano teacher based in Vancouver, Canada. I hold a degree from the Taiwan Conservatory of Music and have been teaching for 17 years. In 1998, I immigrated to Canada and obtained the Royal Canadian Music Performance License.

My teaching philosophy centers around cultivating a love for music in all of my students. I believe that it’s important for students not only to learn the technical skills but also to feel the emotion and meaning behind the music they play.

One of the highlights of my career as a piano teacher was when I had the honor of watching my students perform at Carnegie Hall in New York. It was an incredible experience to see my students showcase their hard work and dedication on such a prestigious stage.

In addition, I am proud to have led my students to win the first special prize and the highest honor award in the Royal Canadian Music Examination. This accomplishment reflects not only the talent of my students but also their commitment and perseverance in their music studies.

He completed Solo Specialization at Conservatoire National de Region de Paris and Strasbourg. In 2000, SINSKE was a grand winner of Tenuto Music Competition(Belgium). In 2001, he won 3rd prize at Tromp Music Competition. In 2002,he received 2nd Prize at the 3rd World Marimba Competition Stuttgart (Germany). After wise SINSKE released 5 CD albums from Sony Music Japan International and 8CDs from his CD label. Reguarly he is giving masterclasses, and he was invited to give masterclass in Nancy Zeltsman Marimba Festival and so on. He co-leads a duo with most famous Japanese flute (shakuhachi) player, Douzan Fujiwara. They tour extensively over Japan, every year. They have released 12 CDs until now. His busy touring schedule has taken him to Germany, Holland, France, United States, South Africa and all major Japanese cities where his solo recitals and projects, concerts have been received with high critical acclaim. He is a YAMAHA Artist in Japan.

“Keiko Abe, a Japanese Marimbist, was the teacher who inspired me the most because her music and performance were the ones that gave me the idea to play marimba for the rest of my life.

My philosophy of teaching is very simple: Think, Play, and Deliver thoughts.

I consider my first CD release as the most important achievement during my carreer: that was just the beginning.”