Chanel Zhang

Chanel Zhang is a dedicated pianist and educator with over eight years of teaching experience, 

specializing in cultivating well-rounded musicians through technical excellence, artistic 

expression, and a strong theoretical foundation. 

She studied at the Manhattan School of Music under Phillip Kawin, where she refined her 

technique and interpretative approach while completing her core theory studies under Mark 

Stambaugh, then Chair of the Composition Department. Furthering her artistic development, 

Chanel participated in an exchange program at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki, Finland, where 

she studied with Tuija Hakkila, a leading expert in historical and harpsichord performance 

practice. This experience deepened her understanding of European musical traditions and 

broadened her interpretative approach. 

Chanel’s teaching philosophy integrates ear training, music theory, and performance coaching to 

ensure a comprehensive musical education. Drawing from her studies with world-class mentors 

and participation in masterclasses such as Akiko Ebi, Jun Kanno, Friedemann Rieger, and Erik T. 

Tawaststijerna. 

Now based in Vancouver, Chanel continues to inspire young musicians, tailoring her approach to 

each student’s unique strengths and goals, fostering both technical mastery and artistic 

confidence.