Sound advice from Mr. Tsang.

Mr. Tsang in action. (Photo by Ian Yip)

Daniel Tsang has been teaching music at RCHK for almost four years. Students who have been taught by him are familiar with his easy-going personality and his love for his work. The RCHK Truth decided to ask him a few questions about his life and experiences, as well as various tips surrounding the music syllabus.

First off, could you give us some basic background info about yourself?

I was born in Hong Kong but grew up in Toronto, Canada. I studied and worked there for a number of years before moving back to Hong Kong eight years ago. I have taught music for many years and have taught all divisions - from kindergarten to secondary school. I have a daughter who is almost three years old and a son who just turned one.  They don't know how to play the piano yet, but soon they will!  

What other jobs have you had before Renaissance?

I have taught at a few international schools in Hong Kong prior to Renaissance, and have taught in public schools in Toronto. I have also acted as the music director of musicals, improv. troupes, and conducted community choirs while I was in Toronto. In addition to teaching, I have also been a church organist.

Could you describe your best experience in RCHK?

This would be conducting the band in Chicago, the musical. Seeing how everyone worked so hard to put on a show in such a short time was a very rewarding experience.   

Do you have any artists or pieces right now that you’re listening to a lot?

I quite enjoy listening to Classical, Jazz and Jpop. Currently, the artists I listen to the most are Yuuri, Yoasobi and Fujii Kaze. 

What’s your advice for people who are struggling with the music syllabus a bit?

Start with listening to a variety of music. Try to be intentional on what to listen for in the piece and think about what attracted you to it. This could be a specific rhythmic pattern, the melody, the chord progressions, the instrumentations or even the tempo. Listen to what they did and focus on one aspect at a time. Perhaps that could help motivate further studying in this area. 

In your professional opinion, who do you think will win Idol this year?

Tang of course!