Testimonials

See what students/parents/colleagues have to say!

“Harry was an exceptional trombone tutor for my son, who was just starting out with the instrument. Having to learn a new instrument, on top of not having any in-person sectionals, was definitely an obstacle during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the sessions being virtual only, Harry provided an engaging and collaborative experience with my child. Not only did he learn to play the instrument more fluently and confidently, he also experienced a taste of collaboration that culminated in a recorded duet. Most importantly, his sessions were both fun and informative as they reviewed the sheet music of the week and videos of notable performances. Additionally, Harry recommended our son to join the Fremont Youth Symphony Orchestra. An audition was required to join, so he personally chose and trained my son on a particular piece to play… and he got in! Since then, my child has been afforded opportunities to play with other bands of varied musical styles. Harry’s passion and encouragement definitely influenced my son’s musical path to where it is today.”

- Kevin Lim, Parent

“I had four volunteer student tutors before I got paired with Harry. He was very nice and was always patient, but I could tell that he was happy being there teaching me. We started virtually and he always pushed me just the right amount out of my comfort zone. Just five months after we started meeting in person, I was overjoyed to audition into the middle school All-State Concert Band. He helps my family know how I was progressing by consistently sending out lesson recap emails and talks to us about life in high school with plenty of helpful advice. I’m really happy to be his student for all these years!"

- Anonymous, Student

"Among the advanced players that I know, none are as dedicated to teaching music as Harry. He frequently volunteers his time to the Tri-City Band Corps and his school’s chapter of Notelove, two nonprofit organizations dedicated to teaching music to underprivileged communities. As a teacher, Harry has an unusually sharp ability to express and convey musical concepts, and I’ve personally benefited from many of his insights and ideas over the years despite never formally studying with him. For example, his feedback on my draft recordings is always a critical component of my annual CASMEC All-State Honor Ensembles auditions and acceptances; those fortunate enough to receive his insight and perspective are always very grateful."

- Thomas Yu, Principal Trombone, UC Berkeley Symphony Orchestra

"Harry's experience has been invaluable this past summer. We were short-staffed, particularly on brass teachers, but Harry was someone I knew I could count on as a site director for a Bay Area music non-profit. Fully equipped to deal with the challenges presented to him in small and big group settings, it has been a pleasure to see Harry interact so well with students. For hours each week, Harry dedicated himself as a volunteer to help children of all ages and skill levels learn how to play their instruments. Truly, Harry's passion for music has been infectious. His considerate nature and attentiveness to students' needs during elementary band--from teaching the basics to recommending private teachers to support their growth--shows just how much Harry cares for his students and his work. Thank you, Harry!"

- Angelica Wang, Former Monta Vista High School Drum Major

“Before my first lesson with Harry, I was very anxious and stressed, but that changed when the lesson started, as I could sense that he actually wanted to be there. This lesson was during a stressful time for me musically, but I felt a lot more confident after it was over, feeling like I was headed in the right direction. Harry is able to help you move forward in a way that doesn't overwhelm you and just in the right amount. He has given me a great sense of direction on what and howto improve, and I would very much recommend him as a teacher and a mentor."

- Anonymous, Student