Biography
Classical Pianist, Educator
Dr. Ma's journey is a testament to her exceptional talent and unwavering dedication. She holds a DMA (Doctor of Musical Arts) degree in Piano Performance from the University of Colorado Boulder. Dr. Ma has extensive experience in solo, chamber music, and orchestral settings. Her accomplishments include the 2024 Dean’s Graduate Student Grant Award, the Roser Piano and Keyboard Scholarship, and the Trotsky Piano Scholarship, all of which underscore her talent and commitment to her craft.
Dr. Ma's passion for nurturing the next generation of musicians is evident in her teaching at CU Boulder's Continuing Education and the Youth Piano Program. She successfully prepared students for ABRSM exams, recitals, and competitions. Her recent research has delved into the world of French pianism and the works of French women composers. Dr. Ma's upcoming album features exquisite compositions by Hélène de Montgeroult, Louise Farrenc, and Cécile Chaminade. This album is a testament to her classical training under distinguished Professor and internationally acclaimed pianist Dr. David Korevaar and her dedication to promoting the works of French women composers.
Graduating as the distinguished honoree with a Master of Music degree from San Francisco State University in 2020, Dr.Ma's talent has been recognized through numerous awards and scholarships, including the MTAC Pedagogy Award and the Emerging Artists Grant of the Berkeley Piano Club. Committed to continuous learning, she actively participates in professional associations like the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA), enriching her teaching practices and staying abreast of the latest developments in music education.
Dr. Ma’s teaching philosophy revolves around building a solid music foundation while fostering creativity and enjoyment in the learning process. She believes music learning is essential and beneficial to a child's growth. She finds immense satisfaction in guiding students of all ages and abilities and witnessing their growth and development as musicians.
Our experience with Dr. Ma has been exceptional. Her patience and dedication have made a significant impact on our children’s piano journey. Not only does she maintain a strict approach to practice and technique, but her profound knowledge of piano performance is a true asset. Dr. Ma is not only a skilled instructor but also a nurturing guide, fostering a love for music and excellence in our children. We wholeheartedly recommend her to other parents seeking a remarkable piano teacher
Xiang Li
My son has been taking private piano lessons with Dr. Ma for 5 years. Dr. Ma is excellent and truly kind. She always teaches him to be precise, gives compliments when he earns it, and she is so very patient. When my younger daughter started learning piano, we tried a different teacher and quickly regretted it. Luckily Dr. Ma had an opening, so we signed up the little one with her too. When my child gets overwhelmed or frustrated with a new piece, Dr. Ma can calm her by breaking down the piece to more manageable steps. Both kids have improved so much with Dr. Ma's help, even through zoom learning this past year. And most importantly, my kids have continued to love music and want to practice more to get better and better. We are incredibly grateful to have Dr. Ma as our kids' piano teacher
Farah Kwan
Dr. Ma is an amazing teacher. She has worked so well with my son for six wonderful years. He was not always consistent at the start but now has initiative and discipline. She brought out the best in him and really opened up his musicality. My son has a great connection with her. He has told me many times that she is one of the best teachers ever.
Everett Meyer
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Dr. Ma teaches at her home studio in Cameron Park and at students' homes. Online lessons are also available!