Meet Our Teachers

Dora Chan is the director and owner of Leading Tone Music Studio. She has been teaching music for over 20 years. She started piano lessons when she was 8 years old. She studied piano under Brian Cross, a prominent piano teacher in Calgary, who was part of the Mount Royal College (now University) music faculty. It was he who encouraged her to start teaching. Under his tutelage, she received her music diploma and became an Associate of the Royal Conservatory of Music (ARCT). She studied her advanced theory with Stephan Bonfield, a musicologist and a professor. Dora has performed in many local festivals and has won numerous honours at the Calgary Kiwanis Music Festival (now known as Calgary Performing Arts Festival). She worked at Forte Music Studio for 5 years before starting her own studio. She graduated at the University of Calgary with two degrees: English and psychology. For her honour thesis, her research was on the musical perception of different timbres in musicians and non-musicians (the paper was published in an acoustic journal and won best student paper of the year). After graduation, she worked at the Alberta Children’s Hospital as a psychometrist and research coordinator while maintaining her active music studio. 

Teaching music is now Dora's full time career. She enjoys running the studio, training teachers, and teaching students of all ages from beginner to advanced levels of piano and theory. Many of her students achieve first class honours with distinction and other prestigious awards. A number of her former students have continued their musical studies at the university level and a few of them have become teachers themselves, including a few who are currently teaching at her studio. She is a member of the Alberta Piano Teacher’s Association (APTA). Every year a number of her students participate in the APTA festival and are invited to perform at the gala celebrating the end of the festival. Dora is also a certified Music for Young Children (MYC) teacher. She has been teaching this program for almost 15 years to children as young as age 2. Many of her MYC grads have finished all the levels in piano. 

She has 3 amazing and energetic children – Hugo, Elijah and Emily who constantly keeps her busy. Hugo and Elijah have started music in the MYC program so she is experiencing music on the flip side, as a parent who is encouraging her children to have the happy habit of practicing piano every day! 

Her hope for all her students (and children) is to be well-rounded musicians – to have the skills to play for one’s own enjoyment, to use music as a way to express their emotions, but most importantly to a have a lifelong love of music. Hopefully along the way, they will also gain other real-world skills like goal setting, confidence building, a sense of wonder and imagination and the feeling of accomplishment when realizing their goals. 

Sunny Chan began his musical studies with Ethel Hubert then transferred to Brian Cross where he reached diploma level in piano. His sister, Dora Chan taught him the rudiments of theory and he finished all his theory requirements with Stephen Bonfield. He is known as Mr Sunny to his students and is also known as the loudest teacher in the studio. He has been teaching for over 13 years in all levels of piano and theory and for more than 5 years in the group music program, Music for Young Children (MYC). His students often achieve high standings on their piano and theory exams – some of his students have received the RCM gold medals (rewarded for the highest piano exam mark in the province) and many of his students have gotten 100% on their theory exams. 

He started teaching in his early teens and came to love teaching as he went on. He is a very positive teacher who guides his students in understanding the art of music and helps them to develop creativity, individuality and excitement in their playing. He can also be very strict when it is necessary but he understands that it is important to have fun as well.  He tries to inspire all his students to have quality practicing at home so they can truly master their craft. You can often catch him saying this to his students: “it’s not how long you practice, it’s how smart you practice.” In every lesson Mr Sunny is energetic and fortissimo but it is because he is passionate and enthusiastic about music and he hopes to pass on his love of music to all his students. 

Amanda Wong has been playing piano since she was 8 years old and have in that time, achieved a Grade 10 certificate in the Royal Conservatory of Music program, including the accompanying harmony and history courses. She started teaching private lessons in 2012 and not too long after was trained to teach the Music for Young Children program. In between getting an engineering degree, stocking shelves at an independent toy store, and currently as a software support analyst and Wednesday night pub trivia champion – she has always found time for music education.

Everyone has a special relationship with music and it’s incredible to be able see how each student interacts with it. She loves teaching both private and group lessons as they each offer something different for her. Through private lessons, she is able to work with a student at their own pace and tailor each lesson to their specific needs to fine tune their musical skills. Group lessons allow for a lively environment to develop the basic skills needed to read music and play an instrument. She gets the best questions from parents and children in this time that has her seeing music in a way she hasn’t thought of before.  

Music is such an integral part of her life and she loves being able to help the kids and families she meets develop the skill and passion for it! At the studio Ms Amanda is the fun and quirky teacher whom all students and parents love. 

Amanda first learned piano at the age of 3 and has developed a love for music throughout her life. While finishing her Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Calgary, she maintained a close relationship to piano and found it as a fun way to relax. Her love for music really sparked from being inspired by music from anime, TV shows, and movies which motivated her to try to play them herself. She is skilled at teaching all genres of music but her favourite pieces to play and teach are the lyrical pieces. 

Amanda started off by helping to create teaching material (which can be seen around the studio!) for the MYC classes. Her teaching journey began in 2012 shadowing senior teachers and eventually subbing in lessons whenever needed. Through the years she has taught a large range of students from beginners to advanced levels both in theory and piano. Many of her students have achieved First Class Honours and First Class Honours with Distinction as well as win first place in local music festivals. She strives to connect with each student so she can provide a fun learning experience for each of them. She is a much sought-after teacher at the studio.

Born in Fuzhou, China, pianist Bo Xuan (Jerry) Liao resides in Calgary, Alberta, where he regularly performs as a soloist and collaborative pianist. Jerry began taking piano lessons at the age of 8, and his teachers over the years have included Margaret Thompson, Dora Chan, and Sunny Chan. Jerry is in the first year of a Bachelor of Music degree in Piano Performance at the University of Calgary studying with Dr. Jani Parsons. Jerry was awarded the standing of first-class honours with distinction for his Royal Conservatory of Music grade 10 piano and theory exams. This past year, Jerry participated in the Pathways Festival, the Rotary Calgary Concerto Competition, and has had masterclasses with notable musicians Dr. David Potvin and Dr. Sasha Starcevich. Recently, he had the privilege to collaborate with composer Vincent Ho, culminating in the world premiere performance of The Galloping Horse from The Twelve Chinese Zodiac Animals, Book 2.

Jerry is the accompanist for Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church choir and enjoys teaching piano and music theory. Outside of music, Jerry enjoys playing badminton, video games, reading too many webtoons, and eating good food.

Born and raised in Calgary, Alberta, Cyrus Tung began his musical journey at the age of six. He started with piano lessons and achieved his Level 10 Certificate from the Royal Conservatory of Music. Throughout grade school, he performed in band concerts, talent shows, recitals and took on other instruments such as the guitar, bass, drums, and the alto saxophone.

Cyrus has experience and knowledge teaching and mentoring children of all backgrounds through volunteering at various summer camps, music clubs, and leading songs at church. He hopes to share his musical knowledge with all his students and friends – helping them grow, improve, and most of all, to have fun regardless of their starting point. He has been playing the guitar and piano for over 10 years! 

He will be teaching different techniques of playing the instrument you choose. Students will learn how to chord, strum, improvise, collaborate or jam with other instrumentalists. Students can learn to read music notes on the staff, guitar tablatures and lead sheets. Cyrus will incorporate technique, pieces/songs, theory and FUN in each lesson!

Outside of music, Cyrus has pursued a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Alberta – majoring in Management Information Systems (a combination between Computer Science and Business). He is currently working as an full-time Technical Lead at TELUS and builds computers on the side. 

His hobbies include taking pictures, playing video games and sports such as basketball, volleyball, track and badminton. One fun fact about Cyrus is that he builds his own custom keyboards (computer keyboards, not pianos :P). Ask him about it sometime!

Erin’s philosophy of music is simple, sharing her passion with you. By providing music appreciation, succession in practice and creativity in teaching, she believes anyone willing, can learn and succeed!  

Erin has spent over 25 years performing, teaching, directing, and encouraging the next generation of musicians.  Through Recording Studios, Worship Music, Music Festivals and Exams, Sporting Events, Colleges, Master Classes, and Choirs, she has had multiple opportunities to hone her skills. Erin wants to take what she’s learned and share it with you!

As a musician, Erin is constantly learning and growing and has mentors in her life that help her achieve these goals. They help her keep her teaching fresh by presenting her with new ideas and resources for teaching. She likes to challenge her students to achieve all they can; to do more than they ever thought they could; to give them attainable goals that they will be proud of.

Erin completed an AAR in Voice from NABC (Taylor College and Seminary) in Edmonton AB in

1998; She studied under Gerta Wilson and Mel Unger; she has received many awards for her musical performances, (the Cecelia Prize of Excellence in Musicianship as well as Scholarships and highest marks achieved through ODMTA for RCM exams); she has sung in many choirs, directed choirs and ensembles, participated, and guided many students through Kiwanis Music Festivals, and is a piano accompanist. Erin has toured throughout Canada and the US; busked in Italy, Greece, and Switzerland; Completed her Grade 9 RCM for piano in 2013; and is working towards completing her ARCT in piano and is working towards becoming a Music Braiilist. She is a past member of the ODMTA, and APTA.

In her spare time, Erin loves to bike, bake, paint, travel and compose. She also dabbles on the guitar and harp, and is self taught on the ukulele!

Vivian’s musical journey started at the age of 8. Although she was unsure about music at first, she has grown to love it. Through determination, passion and encouragement from her family, music grew to become an important part of her life and she is grateful to be where she is musically. Vivian began her teaching journey by co-teaching with other teachers, including Ms Amanda Lo and Ms Dora for a few years. She has also completed her levels 1 and 2 training in MYC and is teaching group classes at the studio. She is always excited to teach students of all ages and hopes to share her knowledge, experience and enjoyment of music with them!

Outside of piano, Vivian is currently working towards a Bachelor’s in health and physical education at the Mount Royal University.  During her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching movies and travelling.

When Shanelle was 3, she begged her parents to let her learn piano and that’s when her musical journey began. Though this journey was often windy, she has learned to appreciate and love music and is now teaching private piano and MYC at Leading Tone Music Studio. She joined the studio as a student when she was 8 years old and was in level 3 piano. She’s happy to say that she has had at least 1 lesson with all of the senior teachers at the studio in the past. She has completed all her RCM level 10 theory requirements and is working towards her level 10 piano with Ms Dora.

Music has been Shanelle’s one constant in life. Throughout all the hardships that she has faced, music has always been there for her. Growing up with a brother with autism and ADHD has taught Shanelle patience and has given her new perspectives and unique ways of teaching. Piano was never easy and often challenged her, however, through hard work, determination and passion, Shanelle has overcome those challenges. She hopes that she can inspire her students, guide and teach them with little tricks to understand and love music. Her bright and bubbly personality is distinct in the studio.

Whenever Shanelle puts her mind to something, she gives it 110%. Curiosity and wanting to learn drives her in life. Besides piano, Shanelle took band in and outside of school. She was part of the Calgary Round Up Band for 3 years playing clarinet. She became section leader of the clarinets. During her time there, she was awarded the “Marching Award” for her leadership and musical skills. In her free time, Shanelle volunteers at the Alberta Children’s Hospital gift shop and when she has an opportunity, she plays the piano for kids there. At school, she volunteers as a tutor to help students in high school math (regular and IB). She aims to always keep busy, whether it’s volunteering, working, swimming, gaming, or drawing.

Zephram Gilson is a talented musician with a formal education in both piano and violin. He has achieved great success with the Royal Conservatory of Music, earning honors with distinction in both instruments.

Throughout his musical journey, Zephram has had several unforgettable experiences, but one of his favorites was winning a piano composition competition. He was thrilled to have the opportunity to perform his original piece with Guo Gan, a renowned erhu master from Shenyang, China. The performance was a resounding success, and it took place at the Calgary Zoo, where a large audience had gathered to celebrate the Pandas.

Zephram has always been fascinated by the power of music to convey emotions. He finds great joy in exploring different genres of music and experimenting with electronic composition. Additionally, he is an active member of a chamber music group, where he plays the viola. Through his music, Zephram strives to connect with others and touch their hearts. At Leading Tone Music Studio, he will be teaching piano and violin.

Ziya began her musical journey at the age of 2 with the piano. As she grew older, she began to enjoy music much more and was inspired to explore more instruments. Ziya began playing the violin at age 8 after being inspired by a violinist whom she had watched perform. She also grew to enjoy listening to the guitar and eventually learned how to play it herself at age 11. She completed RCM piano theory up to ARCT level.

Ziya is currently a student at Sir Winston Churchill and enjoys playing the double bass in the school band, despite being half the size of her instrument. Other than pursuing many instruments, Ziya enjoys teaching and helping at the studio in her spare time.

Alvin started playing piano at the age of four and has been playing ever since. This helped develop his liking for music as he now plays several instruments. He is currently a high school student and is enrolled in his school’s band, which received the most outstanding senior high woodwinds award, and jazz ensemble where he plays contrabass clarinet and piano respectively. He has also dabbled in other instruments including the guitar, saxophone, and the double bass. Learning to play many different instruments is always fun for Alvin and he wants to share his passion for music with others.

Alvin has achieved level 9 piano and theory under the tutelage of Ms Dora. Whenever he is available, he would sub for other teachers and co-teach with other senior teachers. Alvin is excited to teach at Leading Tone Music studio this coming music year and would thoroughly enjoy being able to teach as many different and unique students as possible. Alvin enjoys doing many new things and would love to learn more about different cultures and places. He likes to play video games and different sports in his spare time.

Edgar was born in Lethbridge, Alberta and has spent the rest of his life in Calgary after moving here when he was 3.  He’s been playing piano since he was 7 and has finished his level 10 certificate from the royal conservatory of music with all associated theory and history courses. 

Edgar has a lifelong passion in music, enjoying nearly all genres from instrumental to rock/metal to hip hop to electronic music.  He specializes in teaching popular music and classical.  He also plays guitar and sings; he absolutely loves karaoke!

Originally wanting to be a music producer in high school, he has instead decided to pursue mechanical engineering, and completed his degree from the University of Calgary. He currently works in the oil and gas industry in Calgary, while still producing music on the side as a hobby.

He has lots of experience working with children as a summer camp mentor and leader, and eventually was even tasked with running the entire summer camp.  He is skilled in making lessons that are both fun and engaging for children of all ages.  His teaching style revolves around humour and building rapport with his students.

Other hobbies of his outside of music include playing video games, hockey, fishing, and cooking.

Zach has played piano for over 10 years. He started his music journey at the Moonbeams 1 level in MYC with Ms Dora and finished his level 10 piano with Mr Sunny achieving first class honours. He started his teaching journey by coteaching many different levels of piano with Mr Sunny for several years. He has taught private piano for a few years now and loves teaching and working with young children. He enjoys playing music of different genres and styles. His favourite composer is Beethoven. Zach hopes to pass on his love of music and piano by performing for others, as well as teaching. He is currently studying Biological Sciences at the University of Calgary and enjoys playing sports, hanging out with friends, and listening to music.

Kayla is a private lesson teacher at Leading Tone Music Studio with a background in psychology. Kayla graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Calgary and works as a behavioral aide for children with learning disabilities. Her work experience allows her to break down complex theory and teach piano in ways that are easy for students to understand.

She learned piano under Dora Chan and completed level 10 piano in the Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) program. While learning piano, she especially enjoyed pieces by Chopin, learning pieces the same week she was given them! Kayla's music background enabled her to teach herself the acoustic guitar and electric bass which she plays at church on Sundays. In her spare time she enjoys writing, drawing, and video games. You can also thank her for designing our site and logo! 

Brittany is a recent graduate of the University of Calgary with a Bachelor of Science in Cellular Molecular and Microbial Biology and hopes to pursue a career in the healthcare industry. She has received her Level 10 Piano Certificate with the Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) and has been teaching piano for 5 years. Through her teaching experience, she has prepared her students for piano exams and recitals. She has also learned to provide individualized attention tailored to accommodate each student’s learning style and personality to promote the success of their musical education.

Brittany is passionate about sharing her love for music as it has played a significant part in shaping her life from a young age. She hopes to convey the enjoyment of music through teaching piano and helping her students develop strong techniques and musicality while enabling them to express their creativity. Her favourite part of teaching is seeing how proud her students are when they have accomplished their goals and watching them perform after all their hard work.

Besides playing the piano, Brittany has also been playing the guitar and sings for her church for the past 3 years and enjoys camping, anything Disney, drawing, and travelling. 

Tatyana Gilson started playing violin at the age of 6 after she fell in love with the instrument at a musical “petting zoo”. Since then, she has been playing for over 10 years, and has performed in music festivals such as the Calgary Performing Arts Festival. Tatyana was also a member of the Bow Valley Fiddlers for 7 years, and has performed all over Calgary with this group. She plays in a chamber group, and is also part of her school’s string orchestra. Tatyana has completed her RCM level 8 practical exam with First Class Honors with Distinction, achieving the highest mark in the province of Alberta which she received the gold medal for. She currently plays at level 10 in both piano and violin and is very active in both instruments, constantly performing and teaching. She plans on pursuing her Bachelor of Music degree in the coming year. A fun fact - Tatyana started piano through MYC (the same program that is offered at Leading Tone Music Studio!) Through teaching, she hopes to share her skills and admiration of classical music with children. Tatyana also aims to inspire others to play the violin and piano, and to find joy in the beauty of music. 

Stephanie started her journey in music and piano around the age of six and has continued to embark on her adventure under the tutelage of various piano instructors in Calgary. Being inspired by talented musicians and mentors, Stephanie has developed a passion for the art of music. She hopes to use this passion to inspire and bond with people around her.

Over the years, Stephanie has gained RCM level 10 certification in piano performance as well as ARCT theory certification. She is currently working towards certification in ARCT piano performance. Aside from music, Stephanie enjoys trying out new activities, and hanging out with friends.