Today we’d like to introduce you to Angela Wong.
Hi Angela, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I grew up in Hong Kong, where I started playing the piano at a young age. Music was a central part of my life early on, and that passion brought me to the United States. I studied collaborative piano at Cleveland Institute of Music, then completed my Doctor of Musical Arts degree at the University of Memphis on full scholarship.
Over time Memphis became home, and I began to build my piano studio. My goal is not only to help students play the piano well, but also to help them build confidence, perseverance, and a lifelong connection to music. I regularly organize student recitals, including formal recitals at Lane Music Auditorium, as well as community outreach programs at various venues, like the public libraries and assisted living facilities.
At the same time, I stay active as a musician. Last year, I had the pleasure of performing in the Steinway Saturday Series at Amro Music with violinist Dr. Ana Maria Trujillo.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Like many careers in the arts, the path has not always been straightforward. My training was entirely in music performance, so while I was prepared musically, I had no experience running a small business. Building a studio from the ground up required learning different skills that were not taught in music school, such as communication, organization, and long-term planning.
Every student is unique. While I am grateful that my studio has been growing steadily, the growth also means constantly learning how to better support my students and families who trust me with their musical education. Teaching an instrument is not just about explaining notes and rhythms; it is also about understanding and meeting each student’s needs, and helping each student progress at their own pace.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I work with students of all ages and levels, from beginners discovering the instrument for the first time, to more advanced students preparing challenging repertoire.
Performance is an important part of this learning process. Music is meant to be shared, so my students regularly participate in recitals and community outreach programs. Many also take part in local festival and competitions, such as Amro Keyboard Festival and Beethoven Club Young Artists Competition, where they have achieved wonderful results through their hard work.
One thing I value deeply is that my studio reflects the diversity of Memphis. Students from different cultural backgrounds learn and perform side by side. Music becomes our shared language, even when we came from different parts of the world.
What I am most proud of, however, is watching students grow through music. In today’s fast-paced digital world, having a hands-on skill like playing an instrument becomes increasingly rare. Studying music helps developing patience, discipline, and focus, and those qualities extend far beyond the piano bench. Teaching piano lessons often feels like planting seeds. There may not be immediate results, but with patience and care, something meaningful gradually grows. One of the most meaningful parts of my work is helping students develop not only piano skills, but also a lifelong appreciation for music.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up in Hong Kong, education was highly competitive and demanding, and music training could be quite rigorous as well. I would not say that I was natural gifted at the piano, I had to work through many challenges just like many other students. Looking back, I am especially grateful to my parents, who were very supportive and open-minded. They encouraged my interest without turning it into pressure, and that allowed my passion for the piano to grow naturally.
Through that process I learned that progress in music rarely happens overnight. Improvement comes through patience, persistence, and steady effort. Those lessons shaped my personality and continue to influence how I approach performing, teaching, and even running my own studio today.
Piano lesson teaches much more than notes on a page. In many ways, the same mindset that helps us learn an instrument, like patience, consistency, and resilience, also helps us navigate the ups and downs of life. Those qualities have certainly guided me through my own journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://memphispianostudio.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MemphisPianoStudio
