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Meet Our Teachers

Our teachers offer a variety of teaching styles, but at the core of our teaching philosophy is a passion for music and teaching and a desire to develop a love of music in all our students.

Dora Chan

Director/MYC/Piano/Theory Instructor

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

MYC/Piano/Theory Instructor

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

MYC/Piano Instructor

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.

Erin Fredlund

Voice, Piano, & Ukelele Instructor

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!

Amanda Lo

Piano Instructor

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.

Vivian Tran

MYC/Piano Instructor

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.

Derek Lee

Piano/Theory Instructor

Derek Lee is currently pursuing his Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance at the University of Calgary with Dr. Jani Parsons. Derek previously studied with Kathy Dornian in Calgary and Dr. Diane Ferguson in Whitecourt. Derek completed his ARCT Piano Performance at the Royal Conservatory of Music and has since been active as a soloist and collaborative artist.

Derek is a first-prize winner in the V International Gloria Artis Music Competition, making his debut in Vienna, Austria. He is also the second-prize winner of the 2025 Canadian Music Competition and the third-prize and Dorothy Buckley Prize winner of the best Canadian work in the 2025 ARMTA Piano Competition in Edmonton. Derek has been involved in masterclasses and has worked with internationally renowned artists, such as Ursula Oppens, Nicolas Namoradze, Roberto Plano, Yakov Kasman, and Henry Kramer. Over the summer, Derek continued his artistic development at the Vivace International Music Festival in North Carolina and the Gathering of the Stars on full scholarship in Quebec. He is currently vice president for the Music Undergraduate Society.

Derek believes that teaching should create connection and empathy, build critical thinking skills, and be open to curiosity. When he isn’t playing the piano, he spends his time photographing, graphic designing, playing basketball, and sipping hot coffee on cold days.

Calvin Ma

Guitar Instructor

Calvin has played guitar for about 30 years. He obtained a B.Sc. Pharmacy degree from the University of Alberta. Due to his passion in music, he also studied contemporary guitar at Alberta College in Edmonton and Mount Royal College in Calgary. He has performed with numerous bands in the Calgary music scene. He has experience as musical director, studio sessionist, sound engineer and mixing engineer. He is currently the lead guitarist for Medusa Pop Band and Sonic Impulse in Calgary. He also does freelance work for local performers. Calvin has experience in teaching young children as well as adults. In addition to the traditional method of teaching by sheet music, he is well versed in teaching students to learn music by ear due to his years of band experience.

As a parent of two children, he understands the importance of balancing progression and fun. He will tailor the lessons based on the students’ experience and goals. In his spare-time away from pharmacy and music, Calvin enjoys tennis, skiing, and tinkering with radio-controlled cars.

Zephram Gilson

Violin, Piano & Theory Instructor

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.

Edgar Tan

Piano/Theory Instructor

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.

Shanelle Heng

MYC/Piano/Theory Instructor

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.

Rachel Kwag

Piano Instructor

Rachel began her musical journey at the age of six, studying classical piano and developing a strong technical foundation. After more than a decade in classical music, she transitioned into contemporary styles, expanding her versatility and musical expression. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music and Worship Arts, which has shaped both her musicianship and her passion for using music to connect with and inspire others.

With experience in both classical and modern styles, Rachel brings a balanced and thoughtful approach to her teaching—combining solid technique with creativity and personal expression. She is knowledgeable in improvisation, harmony theory, chord qualities & progressions, and arranging. She has worked as a music director, accompanist, keyboard player, and orchestra program coordinator.

Rachel believes that every student learns differently and strives to create an encouraging environment where students can grow in confidence with joy and at their own pace. Her favourite part of teaching is hearing students’ random facts and receiving handwritten letters or drawings.

Outside of teaching, Rachel enjoys hiking, reading Wikipedia, watching documentaries about animals and space, and growing plants.

Ziya Kwok

Piano/Theory Instructor

Ziya began her musical journey with Yamaha group lessons for piano at the age of 2. As she grew older, she became inspired to explore other instruments including the violin and guitar. Aside from playing many instruments, Ziya has also completed ARCT piano theory through RCM. Music has been something that always surrounded Ziya's life whether it was classical pieces, broadway shows, or everyday pop music. She will constantly have music playing everywhere she goes and has truly grown a love for it.

Growing up, Ziya juggled many extracurriculars including contortion, circus acrobatics, dance, badminton, and of course, her instruments. Despite having so many activities, she always found time to dedicate to music, which happened to be what stuck, even when school made it hard to keep up with everything. She is thrilled to be able to share her passion of music through teaching and inspiring others.

When Ziya isn't teaching, she loves spending her time shopping, drinking Starbucks, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Cody Mah

Junior Piano Instructor

Cody has been learning piano since the age of five and grew up in an environment rich in musical exposure. With two older brothers who also studied piano, music played an important role throughout his upbringing. Over time, Cody continued to pursue piano more extensively, developing his skills and musical understanding beyond his early influences.

To reach his position as a piano teacher, Cody co-taught alongside Mr. Sunny for two years and Ms. Dora for one year, gaining valuable hands-on teaching experience. He brings this lifelong musical background into his teaching, emphasizing strong fundamentals, musical expression, and personalized instruction. Cody particularly enjoys playing fun, out-of-book pieces and has strong sight-reading abilities, which he actively incorporates into his lessons to help students become confident, versatile musicians.

Outside of piano teaching, Cody is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Finance. He enjoys staying active through badminton, snowboarding, and swimming, and also spends his free time gaming. In addition to teaching, Cody regularly attends a variety of musical events and continues to nurture his deep appreciation and love for music, which strongly influences his approach as an educator.

Levi Cheung

Junior Piano Instructor

Levi Cheung is a university student who has a lifelong passion for piano and music. He began playing at the age of three, growing up in a home where music was deeply interwoven into everyday life. His early training followed the Suzuki method which placed heavy emphasis on deliberate listening, laying a strong foundation for his musical development.

Levi later transitioned into the Royal Conservatory of Music program, completing Level 8 while exploring Level 10 and ARCT repertoire purely out of his love for the art. After finishing his Level 8 exam, he took a step back from the traditional path to study jazz, which helped in expanding his musical language and creative expression. With a well developed sense of relative pitch, Levi is also able to learn and perform music entirely by ear.

He has participated in piano festivals and regularly performs with his local church worship team, as well as with a group that brings music to hospitals and nursing homes across the city. Beyond live performance, Levi has built a notable following on social media, where he shares his musical passion and connects with a wider audience. He has also competed at both provincial and national levels in piano, volleyball, and karate.

Currently, Levi is pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Calgary. Outside of piano, he enjoys playing guitar, sewing his own clothes, and baking confectionery treats.

Alexandria Lee

Junior Voice Instructor

Lexi is a junior vocal instructor at Leading Tone Music Studio. She is currently studying a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Drama at the University of Calgary, and was even the 2025 recipient of the Grayson and Dorothy Morrison Fine Arts Scholarship. She is looking to add Psychology as a double major to her degree in the upcoming years. She started her music journey taking piano lessons for 12 years and continues to utilize that knowledge to enhance her teachings in voice. She has been taking singing lessons since the age of 6, and continues to study the vocal arts under her own teacher and mentor, Selina Wong-Parrotta. Lexi specializes in the vocal genres of pop, Disney, and musical theatre.

At the age of 9, Lexi discovered her love for the performing arts through Storybook Theatre’s summer camps. From there, she utilized her passion for singing and acting to begin doing theatre productions all around Calgary. She has acted in many Storybook productions, such as Anne of Green Gables and Peter and the Starcatcher. Lexi has participated in several singing festivals over the years, and has been awarded the Distinction or Superior grade on all of her pieces, while two also won her some scholarships. Her extensive theatre experience was able to land Lexi her very first professional theatre contract for Theatre Calgary’s A Christmas Carol in 2023.

Lexi’s passion for teaching music started at the same place where she started her theatre journey. She has been working part-time at Storybook for 4 years now, starting as a Program Assistant and has now evolved into a Music Director/Music Instructor for young people. Her hope is to provide the same environment and resources for all of her students to find their passion in singing, as she did herself. Despite being a teacher now, Lexi is a firm believer that there is always something to be learned. She continues to pursue her theatre career through education and other theatre opportunities.

When not teaching or performing onstage, Lexi is either studying or spending time with her friends and family. Her favourite hobby is playing songs on the piano while singing. She takes pride in her giant sticker collection, and is always willing to talk about Pokémon cards.

Kade Peters

Junior Guitar and Drums Instructor

Kade brings an energetic and thoughtful approach to every lesson, believing that great musicians are built through consistency, creativity, and a willingness to keep learning. He enjoys breaking down new techniques into approachable steps, helping students build confidence while developing the skills they need to play with precision and purpose. His lessons are tailored to each student's goals, whether they're picking up drumsticks for the first time or looking to take their playing to the next level.

Outside the lesson studio, Kade has spent time performing drums and guitar in a band, an experience that has deepened his appreciation for collaboration, rhythm, and the role drums play in shaping a song. Kade has been playing the drums for over decade, learnt through lessons for six years and has taught lessons for a few years. He plays on his churches worship teams and is well versed in playing worship music. He also has recently started teaching beginner guitar lessons. He has been playing for a few years after he stopped taking drum lessons. His approach to teaching guitar is to give his students the skills to be able to play their favourite songs as well as to not be scared to try new things. He hopes every student leaves their lesson not only as a stronger musician, but with an even greater excitement for sitting down at the kit or picking up the guitar.

Angela Mah

Junior Piano Instructor

Angela started her journey in music and piano at the age of seven and has continued to develop her skills under the guidance of Dora and Sunny in Calgary. Throughout the years, she has been inspired by many talented musicians and mentors, which has deepened her appreciation and passion for music. She especially enjoys learning and playing pop music, as it allows her to connect creatively with the instrument and make music feel fun and engaging. In addition to piano, Angela also plays the guitar, giving her a broader musical perspective.

Alongside her musical journey, Angela is currently studying physics at the University of Calgary, where her curiosity, problem-solving skills, and dedication to learning continue to grow. She is working towards completing her RCM Level 10 piano with Sunny and remains committed to improving her musicianship. Angela hopes to use her passion for both music and education to inspire kids, help them build confidence, and encourage a lifelong love of learning. Outside of her academic and musical pursuits, she enjoys trying new activities and spending time with friends.

Nomi Chan

Junior Piano Instructor

Nomi started her musical and piano journey at the age of four and soon transferred to Leading Tone Music Studio to continue her musical education and has thus been with the studio for over ten years. Nomi completed the Music for Young Children program with Ms Dora and then continued with the Royal Conservatory of Music program with Mr Sunny and is currently completing her level 10 certification this June. As she grew older, Nomi also began to explore other musical instruments such as the violin and flute, which she can play both instruments at a proficient level. Nomi is deeply embedded in the arts as she is currently pursuing an arts degree at the Alberta University of the Arts. Outside of music she likes to read, watch TV, and spend time with friends.

Kyera Chow

Junior MYC/Piano Instructor

Kyera’s musicial journey started at the age of 5 at Leading Tone Music Studio. She is currently working towards finishing both her level 10 piano and harmony with Ms. Dora. This year, she has been co-teaching a Sunbeams 1 MYC class with Ms. Dora as well as observing beginner private piano lessons. She loves the excitement that comes with teaching young children. In addition to music, Kyera is also a competitive figure skater. She has been skating since she was very young, exposing her to many different musical genres including pop, classical, foxtrot, blues, jazz and many more! Juggling skating and piano has taught Kyera discipline, perseverance, and patience. Over the years, Kyera’s bond with music has become unbreakable because it has always been a constant throughout her life, supporting her during her happy and hard times. She is eager to share her passion for music to whoever she teaches, as well as continue to develop her own musical knowledge. Kyera is currently on track to graduating high school and she aspires to pursue a career in STEM. In her free time, Kyera enjoys playing badminton, sprinting on the track team, spending time with her friends, and watching TV.

Stephanie Wong

Piano Instructor

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.

Jonathan Tran

Junior Violin, Clarinet and Theory Instructor

Jonathan first began his music journey at the ripe age of 6 when he begged his parents to let him play the violin because he thought it looked so cool. Fortunately, almost 15 years later he still shares the same sentiment having stuck with it. He learned through private lessons and achieved a level 10 in the Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) where he is en route in pursuing his ARCT, currently making his way through the theory portion first.

Additionally, he also did music in school, not as violin, but as a clarinet player. He took part in school concert and symphonic ensembles, where he was the clarinet section leader in his high school. He also joined extracurriculars as a clarinet player where he joined the Calgary Round-Up Band, eventually making his way up to also being the clarinet section leader in the Calgary Stampede Showband where he had the opportunity to be the violin soloist for one of the field shows.

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