Teaching Really Matters
A curated SMTA pedagogy workshop series celebrating teachers, creativity, and meaningful musical learning.
Workshop Overview
Join Dr Shaun Choo for an inspiring afternoon of musical insight, reflection, and creativity. This session invites piano teachers and students to explore music through the eyes of both a pianist and composer, while also reflecting on competence, competition, and long-term artistic growth.
Dr Shaun Choo
Dr Shaun Choo brings together the worlds of performance, composition, and education. Through his experience as an international prize-winning pianist and composer, he offers participants a fresh and thoughtful perspective on music learning, interpretation, and teaching.
A Composer’s Perspective on Compositions
Drawing from his experience as both pianist and composer, Dr Shaun Choo invites participants to explore classical repertoire from a fresh and insightful perspective.
This session focuses on recognising musical properties, compositional structure, and the subtle elements that shape the character and emotional direction of a work. Through analysis, discussion, and live demonstrations, participants will discover practical ways to bring greater clarity, intention, and imagination into interpretation and teaching.
Competence VS Competition
As a recipient of more than ten international prizes, Dr Shaun Choo shares candid reflections on competitions, examinations, and the pursuit of artistic growth.
This session explores how musicians can develop a healthy and balanced mindset towards competitive environments while maintaining focus on long-term musical development and personal excellence.
- Preparation and mindset for competitions and exams
- Managing pressure and expectations
- Understanding factors influencing jury and examiner decisions
- Distinguishing artistic growth from external results
Registration Fees
Teachers who entered students for the 9th Singapore Performers’ Festival 2026, as well as students, enjoy 50% off regular fees.
Teachers of 9th PF Students
Per session
SMTA Members
Per session
Non-Members / Public
Per session
Early bird fees till 1 June 2026. Registration closes when seats are filled.
Venue
Music Salon @ Yamaha Thomson Plaza
301 Upper Thomson Road #03-24
Thomson Plaza, Singapore 574408
MRT: Upper Thomson