Nurturing Artistry Within You
Holistic Piano Coach
Dr. Somruedi Kwan Suchitphanit
Dr. Kwan, an accomplished piano coach, brings over two decades of enriching teaching experience to the world of music education. Dedicated to guiding students on their musical journeys, she is committed to a comprehensive, holistic approach to piano education.
With a project-based methodology deeply rooted in piano pedagogy, Dr. Kwan goes beyond traditional teaching methods to create an immersive learning experience. Each lesson becomes an exploration of the profound connections between technical skill and artistic expression, perfectly aligned with holistic education principles. Dr. Kwan's expertise has helped numerous students achieve their desired goals, unlocking their full potential and fostering personal growth along the way.
Dr. Kwan's own musical journey began at the age of 7, evolving into a pre-college pursuit in music by the age of 12. With unwavering dedication, she earned a Bachelor of Music from the College of Music, Mahidol University (Thailand) in 2007, a Master of Music in Piano Performance and Pedagogy from Westminster Choir College, Rider University in 2011, and a Doctorate in Piano Performance from the University of Kansas in 2017.
With a rich background in music education, she has taught at esteemed institutions such as Westminster Conservatory, the University of Kansas, and Rangsit University (Thailand), along with several international schools in the region. As a co-founder of "Round Note Music," she played a pivotal role in shaping innovative teaching methodologies and curriculum development. In her most recent role as Head of Keyboard at Rugby School Thailand, she led and inspired students for four years. She is also passionate about sharing her knowledge through seminars for piano teachers.
Under her mentorship, students have attained exceptional results, triumphing in international competitions and securing the highest scores in prestigious music exams. Recognized for her outstanding teaching, she has received teaching awards from Trinity and ABRSM for her students' achievements in 2018, 2019, and 2022. Beyond teaching, she finds joy in collaborating on chamber music projects with musicians. In 2024, she made the move to Washington, DC, to launch her own venture, Holistic Piano Coaching, where she continues to inspire and nurture aspiring pianists.
Performances
The Quintet in E flat major for Piano and Winds, K. 452, was completed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart on March 30, 1784 and premiered two days later at the Imperial and Royal National Court Theater in Vienna. Shortly after the premiere, Mozart wrote to his father that "I myself consider it to be the best thing I have written in my life." It is scored for piano, oboe, clarinet, horn and bassoon.
Mozart - Quintet for Piano and Winds in E flat, K. 452
The Piano Concerto in C-sharp minor, FP 146 is the last of Francis Poulenc's five concertos. Written in 1949. The tuneful, energetic concerto was commissioned by the Boston Symphony Orchestra to restore relations between Paris, Poulenc's hometown, and the United States after the Second World War. It was premiered by the BSO with Charles Munch conducting and the composer at the piano on 6 January 1950
Poulence - Piano Concerto in C-sharp minor, FP 146