Vivian Zhao

• Licentiate Diploma AMEB (LMusA) - Piano

Vivian has been classically trained in piano and violin from when she was 3 and for the last 5 years under AMEB examiner, Sydney Conservatorium lecturer, and adjudicator Dr. James Muir. Awarded a High Distinction for her piano LMUSA Diploma, she has followed both the AMEB and IMEB syllabus and musical theory up to Grade 6. She has also completed AMEB Grade 6 Violin. Vivian was awarded the Sydney Eisteddfod Alf & Pearl, Pollard Memorial Award for Performance Excellence in piano, as well as numerous awards at Castle Hill, Penrith, St. George, and Ryde Eisteddfod over the years. Vivian was also nominated for the HSC Encore performance for both Music 2 and Music Extension. She has extensive classical piano and violin experience, but enjoys teaching across all genres, focusing on technical strength and performance skills, with the aim of endorsing a passion for music. Currently, she is studying as a medical student and also provides UCAT and interview tuition for students interested in studying medicine or dentistry. 

Her teaching philosophy is to instil a love of music in her students by making it enjoyable through ease of playing, whilst at the same time keeping a firm hold on technique so the student is capable of achieving their best. Her warm-hearted personality and patience for her students, with her extended knowledge of violin technique, allow her students to progress very well and perform well in exams and performances. Both Collette’s piano and violin students have achieved consistent distinction results throughout their music education.