Meet Luyang

Music has been part of my life since childhood, but over the years I’ve discovered that teaching music is about far more than learning notes or mastering technique.

Music helps us tell stories, express emotions, build confidence, and connect with others. Whether I’m conducting a choir, teaching a child their first notes, or helping an adult return to music after many years, my goal is the same: to create meaningful musical experiences that help people grow.

My Story

I was born and raised in Hebei, China, where my musical journey began at the age of six. My mother enrolled me in a group keyboard class, and I was fascinated by the idea that I could sit down at an instrument and play the music I loved—from cartoon themes to popular songs and movie soundtracks. That childhood curiosity eventually led me to study piano more seriously and sparked a lifelong love of learning.

As I continued my musical education, I discovered that every new instrument offered a different way of understanding music. While earning my Bachelor of Music Education from VanderCook College of Music in Chicago, I had the opportunity to study more than seventeen instruments, including woodwinds, brasswind, strings, percussion, guitar, voice and piano. Those experiences broadened not only my musicianship but also my understanding of how students learn from different perspectives.

Today, I am an Illinois-licensed music educator, choral conductor, collaborative pianist, and private instructor. I have taught elementary general music, beginning band, private lessons, and directed school, church, and community choirs.

My Teaching Philosophy

Over the years, my perspective as an educator has gradually changed.

Early in my career, I often asked myself,

“How can I help my students perform well?”

Today, I ask a different question:

“How can music help my students grow?”

That question shapes every lesson and rehearsal I teach.

I believe every student brings unique experiences, strengths, and ways of learning.

My role isn’t simply to teach music.

It’s to help students become confident, curious, expressive musicians who enjoy the lifelong process of learning.

So…

Whether you’re beginning your first lesson, preparing for an audition, returning to music after many years, or looking for a conductor who values thoughtful preparation and collaborative music-making, I would be honored to be part of your musical journey.

I look forward to meeting you.