WELCOME TO KELVIN PIANO STUDIO
About me
I began my music education at a young age in Malaysia, where I was originally from. I passed all of my Trinity College exams with distinction which includes an award for the highest mark in South East Asia, for Grade 5 piano performance at the age of ten. I am also a holder of 3 Trinity College Diplomas, having received the highest Trinity College Fellowship Diploma when I was 17.
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Additionally, I participated in, and received numerous awards in piano competitions in Malaysia - including being the only Malaysian finalist in the prestigious 1st ASEAN International Chopin Piano Competition.
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During my youth, whilst in secondary school in Malaysia, I played as a piano soloist and a 1st violinist in the Miri youth orchestra programme. I was also an active member of the school brass band, playing both the clarinet and saxophone. On moving to Auckland, New Zealand, during secondary school here, I continue to stay active in the school and chamber music programmes.
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Although very passionate, particularly in piano which is my first love, I decided to study law and graduated in 2011 from the University of Auckland. While pursuing my legal career, my passion for music never recedes. I have performed in various piano recitals and taught piano classes at an Auckland music academy.
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PIANO LESSON FEES
30 MINUTE LESSONS
$45 per session
45 MINUTE LESSONS
$65 per session
60 MINUTE LESSONS
$85 per session
PERFORMANCE AND DIPLOMA LEVELS
The session time and fees will be discussed with the student depending on their requirement and skill level.
PIANO ACCOMPANIMENT BY THE STUDIO
$60 per half hour of accompanist’s time involved.
Includes accompaniment for music performance and graded (ABRSM and Trinity) digital exams.
Accompaniment for graded digital exams to be at studio only.
Fees are non refundable and the studio does not provide make up lessons unless under extenuating circumstances.
STUDIO POLICY AND TERM DATES
PAYMENT
Tuition is paid by the school term and is non-refundable and non-negotiable. Payment is due by the first lesson of each school term by either cash, cheque or bank transfer. When a student enrols in this studio, the student is reserving weekly lesson time for the term. There are no refunds and no make-up lessons.
Parents/students are responsible for acquiring books, sheet music and other learning materials when required, or for paying for purchases made by the studio on the student’s behalf.  Other fees that may be incurred include exam fees, masterclass fees etc.
PIANO LESSONS
All lessons are individual and private starting with 30 minutes and up to 60 minutes in most cases.  Longer lessons may be available depending on the skill level or if there have been any special requirements.  Parents/guardians who would like to accompany the student during the lessons are welcome to do so as I strongly encourage parents/guardians to be active in their child’s musical experience.  However other guests are not accepted in the studio.
EXPECTATIONS
Students are expected to practice at home daily which is vital to their progress. The tutor will discuss with the students/parents the appropriate amount of practice time based on their age and/or skill level. Parents of young children are expected to be closely involved to monitor and encourage students in their learning experience.
Students are also expected to be on time for the lessons. Parents who accompany students in class are required to turn off their mobile phone or other electronic devices. The lessons are commitment on the parts of both the students and the parents so your attitude towards the lesson is important in motivating the child's learning.
CANCELLATION/MAKE UP LESSONS
Students/parents must notify the studio for lesson that will be cancelled, but this notice does not exempt the student from payment for the lesson slot.
If the teacher is absent, a make-up will be scheduled at a mutually convenient time, or your account will be credited.
It is acceptable if students wish to exchange lesson times with each other after notifying the teacher. It is the student's and/or parents responsibility to make the changes.
INSTRUMENTS
All students are strongly recommended to have access to an acoustic piano as regular practice is vital to their development. Keyboards or electric pianos are only acceptable substitutes for the very beginners. As the students attained a reasonable skill level an acoustic piano is indispensable.
A proper bench, ideally an adjustable one that allows the student to play in a comfortable position is required for development of proper technique as well as preventing possible injuries to the arms, shoulders, fingers and back.
Younger students may require foot stool for proper leg support.
In addition, since rhythm is a very important aspect of music, a metronome is required.
Please ensure students are provided with a quiet and distraction free environment conducive to regular practice.
TERM DATES AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 2023
Summer Holidays 2025:
Summer holidays: Sat 21st December 2024 - Sun 26th January 2025 (5 weeks)
Term 1 2025:
Mon 27th January to Fri 11th April (11 weeks)
Waitangi Day - 6th February (Thurs)
Term 1's Holidays: Sat 12th April - Sun 27th April
Term 2 2025:
Mon 28th April to Fri 27th June (9 weeks)
Anzac Day - 25th April (Fri)
King's Birthday - 2nd June (Mon)
Matariki Holiday - 20th June (Fri)
Term 2's Holidays: Sat 28th June - Sun 13th July
Term 3 2025:
Mon 14th July to Fri 19th September (10 weeks)
Term 3's Holidays: Sat 20th September - Sun 5th October
Term 4 2025:
Mon 6th October to Fri 19th December (11 weeks)
Labour day - 27th October (Mon)
Summer Holidays 2026:
Summer holidays: Sat 20th December 2025 - Sun 26th January 2026 (5 weeks)