Experience the love of music and nurture your talent with our exceptional education. Taught with love and excellence.
Our Faculty
Our instructors are highly educated musicians and educators who believe music is taught with love and excellence. Through thoughtful instruction and genuine care, they nurture a lifelong love of music while supporting each student’s musical and personal growth.
Dr. Trinh
Piano
Dr. Trinh's musical journey began in Hanoi, Vietnam, where she received eleven years of formal piano training at the Vietnam National Academy of Music before continuing her studies in the United States. Her early foundation shaped a disciplined, expressive, and refined artistic voice that continues to define her work today.
She has performed internationally across Europe and Asia, including appearances at the Alba Music Festival in Alba, Italy, as well as performances associated with the Vietnam National Academy of Music. Dr. Trinh An has also given multiple world-premiere performances of works by living composers, including Italian and American composers, demonstrating her commitment to both tradition and contemporary repertoire.
Throughout her studies and professional career, Dr. Trinh An has been featured in numerous distinguished performances across the United States. These include solo piano performances for private and distinguished audiences, including featured engagements for Sid Dewberry, as well as a special performance for the First Lady of Panama at Flint Hill High School. She has appeared as a soloist with the Mason Symphony Orchestra and performed at prestigious venues such as the Organization of American States and the German-American Heritage Foundation.
Dr. Trinh An previously served as a Graduate Lecturer at George Mason University, where she taught and performed extensively while completing her graduate studies. Her performance credits at Mason include solo appearances in Grand Piano Celebration concerts, Arts by George events, Honors Recitals, and Spotlight on the Arts performances. She was also a winner of the George Mason University School of Music Concerto Competition in 2018 and performed as a piano soloist with the Mason Symphony Orchestra.
She holds a Doctor of Musical Arts in Piano Performance and a Master of Music in Piano Performance from George Mason University. Her doctoral research focused on contemporary piano repertoire, with an emphasis on musical portraits and modern compositional language. Her dissertation, Scott Wheeler’s Musical Portraits and Tributes, is available through ProQuest.
In addition to her distinguished piano career, Dr. Trinh An is also active in financial education, where she helps individuals and families navigate complex financial topics. She has extensive experience in advanced insurance planning for high-net-worth individuals and business owners nationwide, with clients across California, Texas, Guam, Georgia, Florida, Louisiana, and the greater DMV region.
Her work in financial education has been featured in publications such as FORCE Magazine, Global Woman Magazine, and Insights Success Magazine, among other international platforms focused on leadership, global impact, and entrepreneurship. Drawing on her background in higher education, leadership, and business, Dr. Trinh An is known for her exceptional ability to translate complex concepts into clear, accessible, and meaningful insights.
Ms. Patricia
Flute
Ms. Patricia is a Venezuelan-born flutist and music educator with a strong background in classical performance and music education. She received her formal musical training in Venezuela and has worked with children from early childhood through adolescence, including students with diverse learning needs.
Patricia brings a warm, sensitive, and developmentally informed approach to teaching, combining solid musical foundations with creativity, emotional awareness, and joy. Her teaching philosophy focuses on connection, curiosity, and fostering a lifelong love of music in each student.
Ms.Aigerim
Violin
Ms. Aigerim is a dedicated violin teacher with a Master of Music in Violin Performance, trained in a strong classical violin tradition. With a deep passion for both music and education, she creates a warm, welcoming, and supportive environment where students feel encouraged to grow and express themselves.
She believes that every student is unique, and she thoughtfully tailors each lesson to match the student’s age, personality, and individual learning style. Her teaching focuses on building a strong technical foundation while also nurturing musicality, confidence, and expressive playing.
Aigerim works with both children and adults, guiding each student at their own pace and helping them develop not only their skills, but also a genuine love for music. Her approach combines structure with creativity, making lessons both effective and enjoyable.
Her goal is to inspire, motivate, and support every student on their musical journey, helping them feel comfortable, confident, and excited about learning the violin.
Mr. Mark
Drums • Percussion • General Music
Mark believes that music belongs to everyone—and he lives this belief with love in every aspect of his teaching. At Music Love Academy, he teaches early education programs and drum classes, creating joyful, engaging experiences where students can explore rhythm, creativity, and self-expression from the very beginning.
He also teaches General Music to grades K–6 and works with neurodivergent students in Fairfax County Public Schools, bringing inclusivity, patience, and a deep sense of care into his classroom. Mark is active in the community as well, leading workshops and drum circles for both children and adults, where his passion for connection through music truly shines.
Previously, Mark served as a Catholic school band director, teaching traditional concert instruments and helping middle school students discover not only how to play, but how to love making music together.
As a musician, Mark specializes in the rhythms of Africa, Spain, South America, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe. He has published six world music albums, contributed to many others, and has toured both nationally and internationally.
A Michigan native, Mark now lives with his family in Burke. He has performed locally with the Washington Metropolitan Philharmonic Orchestra and the 257th Army Band, and has taught at George Mason University, Fairfax County Parks, and several music camps.
Mark brings not only exceptional experience, but also heart, dedication, and a genuine love for every student he teaches. At Music Love Academy, he inspires students to feel confident, connected, and truly joyful through music.
Dr. Lizao
Piano
Dr. Lizao is a passionate music educator, accomplished pianist, and organist with over a decade of teaching and performance experience in both the United States and China. With advanced degrees from the Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University and Westminster Choir College, along with a Bachelor of Music from the Shanghai Conservatory of Music, she brings an exceptional international background to every lesson.
Her teaching experience spans piano performance, AP Music Theory, ABRSM Piano and Music Theory, ear training, and advanced music studies. She has also performed as a pianist and organist at venues in the United States and internationally.
At Music Love Academy, Lizao loves inspiring students of all ages and skill levels, from first-time beginners discovering the piano to more advanced musicians ready to reach their next level. Her lessons combine strong musical foundations with creativity, encouragement, and each student’s individual interests and goals.
Lizao’s goal is for students to leave each lesson feeling confident, inspired, and excited to make music!
Ms. Leah
Voice, Musical Theatre
& Early Education
Ms. Leah is a passionate music educator, conductor, and performer dedicated to inspiring students of all ages through engaging and meaningful music instruction. A graduate of James Madison University with a degree in Vocal Music Education, she specializes in voice, early childhood music, general music education, musical theater, and working with neurodiverse learners.
Ms. Brown completed her student teaching at Eagle View Elementary School and Rachel Carson Middle School in Fairfax County and currently serves as a General Music and Chorus Teacher at Arlington Traditional School, where she fosters creativity, confidence, and a lifelong love of music in her students.
As an accomplished performer, Ms. Brown has appeared at the prestigious Carnegie Hall, performing Tarik O'Regan's Where We Once Stood with the JMU Carnegie Hall Collective. She has also performed alongside renowned vocal ensembles, including The Wailin' Jennys, Kitka, and Cantus, enriching her artistry through diverse musical traditions.
At Music Love Academy, Ms. Brown creates a warm, encouraging, and engaging learning environment where every student feels supported and inspired. Whether working with young beginners, aspiring singers, musical theater performers, or neurodivergent learners, she believes music has the power to build confidence, spark creativity, and bring joy that lasts a lifetime.
Dr. Hee
Violin
An avid orchestral musician, Dr. Hee has served as a viola section member of the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra and has performed as a substitute with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, Phoenix Symphony Orchestra, and Fairfax Symphony Orchestra.
She is currently a Violin/Viola faculty member at the International School of Music and a Violin/Viola instructor at Holmes Middle School. She has completed Suzuki Association training and holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from The Catholic University of America. She earned her Master of Music degree and Orchestral Studies Diploma from the Eastman School of Music, and her Bachelor of Music degree from the Korea National University of Arts.
She is a prizewinner of numerous competitions, including the Rockville Competition, American Protégé Competition, KBS Broadcast Competition, and First Prize at the Young Artist Chamber Music Competition. As a chamber musician, she has performed in Syracuse, Rochester, Buffalo, and at Cornell University. She has appeared as a soloist with the OLA Viola Ensemble and the Jungang University Orchestra.
Her festival appearances include the National Orchestral Institute and the Music Academy of the West, and she was a scholarship recipient at the Aspen Music Festival.
As an accomplished and dedicated educator, her violin and viola students have earned principal positions and outstanding results in American Youth Orchestras, state and regional orchestras, government school auditions, and competitions. Nearly all of her students are successfully accprocessesepted through competitive audition .
Mr. Davorin
Guitar & Early Education
Mr. Davorin is a native of Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina, began playing guitar after a friend taught him the rock’n’roll riff on the instrument as a birthday gift at the age of 12. Because of the way he felt when he learned to play that, he knew that music was his future.
In 1989, his band Veliki Tata (Big Daddy) was awarded as the best new upcoming band by the local music TV station in Sarajevo. They continued playing music throughout the Bosnian war and the Sarajevo siege, playing concerts powered by gas generators while the audience used candles.
Life with music continued in Chicago when he moved there in 1995, first with his old Bosnian band mates, now named Globus. In 2000 he and two friends joined to form Snaklab and they entertained audiences all over Chicago playing the city's iconic dives and bars.
In 2004 he turned his attention to the acoustic guitar to focus on jazz and his lasting love of Django Reinhardt and Gypsy Jazz. He studied jazz guitar with Tony Do Rosario and Alfonso Ponticelli.
Upon moving to the DC area in 2016, he continued performing regularly with DC Ambiance, Hot Club of DC, Djangolaya and Better Times Swing Quartet. Around this time is when he started teaching as well. For several years now, he has been hosting and teaching workshops at the Django in June festival. He performed with the National Philharmonic Chamber Players at Walter Reed Warrior Cafe.
Currently, he holds the role of musical director at Friendship Preschool in Falls Church. In December of 2023 he was hired as a guitar performer for the Encanto show at CAMP. He has done studio session work at Crescendo Studios. Composing his own music is something he enjoys a lot. His friends would tell him that his patience would serve him well and that he should consider starting teaching. He would like to help his students find joy in practicing and playing their instrument the way he did. He wants to hear about what his students would like to be able to play and guide them to get there.
As well as being a teacher, he is very much a student himself and this constant desire to be a better musician is something he believes would benefit his students as well.
Mr. Jihad
Guitar/ Oud
Mr. Jihad is a guitarist and music educator originally from Saida, a small city in South Lebanon. Growing up surrounded by artists and musicians sparked his love for music at an early age. During his college years, he began taking music more seriously and later honed his skills as a street performer in Istanbul, where he discovered how powerful music can be in bringing people together.
Along with guitar, Jihad also plays the oud and the Turkish saz, instruments that helped shape his unique musical voice. His style blends Arabic, Turkish, and jazz influences into an expressive and versatile sound often described as oriental jazz fusion.
Jihad believes music is deeply connected to history and culture, and he enjoys sharing these ideas with his students in an engaging and accessible way. Drawing from both Eastern and Western traditions, he focuses on helping students build confidence, develop strong musicianship, and most importantly, enjoy the journey of discovering their own musical voice.
Ms. Annie
Voice
Ms. Ann “Annie” is a vibrant and inspiring voice instructor at Music Love Academy, bringing artistry, professionalism, and a true love for performance into every lesson. As a professional singer, performer, and music educator based in the DMV area, Annie works with students of all ages, guiding them in classical, musical theater, and contemporary styles including pop and rock.
At Music Love Academy, Annie creates a warm, encouraging, and empowering environment where students feel confident to express themselves and grow. Her teaching emphasizes healthy vocal technique, strong musicianship, and confident, expressive performance—helping each student develop not only their voice, but also their stage presence and self-confidence.
Annie’s extensive training includes a minor in Classical Vocal Performance from Towson University, a postgraduate degree in Musical Theater from The Catholic University of America, and additional study at The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts.
Her performance career is equally impressive, with roles in productions such as The Rocky Horror Show, Into the Woods, Mamma Mia!, Little Women, The Little Mermaid, Così fan tutte, and Chabrier’s L’étoile. She also performs regularly as a soloist in Handel’s Messiah each Christmas. Annie has appeared at renowned venues including 53 Above Broadway and The York Theatre Company in New York City, The Weinberg Center for the Arts, the Victorian Lyric Opera Company, and Everyman Theatre.
In addition to performing, Annie is an accomplished and recognized artist, having placed in the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) competition, advancing to regionals, as well as in the CS Music Competition. She is also a creative leader, having produced, coordinated, and directed her own Valentine’s Day–themed cabaret, collaborating with fellow local performers.
At Music Love Academy, Annie inspires students to find their voice, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing—with artistry, authenticity, and love.
Ms. Meghan
Violin, Viola & Piano
Ms. Meghan is a classically trained violinist, violist, pianist, and dedicated music educator with a Bachelor’s degree in Music and extensive training in music performance and pedagogy. With over 13 years of violin experience and more than 8 years of viola experience, she brings a strong combination of musicianship, technique, and teaching expertise to her students.
Meghan has been teaching professionally since the age of 18 and especially enjoys helping young musicians build a strong foundation from their very first lessons. Her violin instruction incorporates proper technique, posture, note reading, rhythm, ear training, musical expression, and performance skills while keeping lessons positive, engaging, and encouraging.
She is continuing her advanced studies at George Mason University, further developing her expertise in music pedagogy and education.
At Music Love Academy, Ms. Meghan works with students of different ages and skill levels, tailoring each lesson to the individual student. Her goal is to help students become confident, expressive musicians while developing a genuine and lifelong love of music.
Ms. Zhe
Voice
Ms. Zhe is a mezzo-soprano, dedicated music educator, and Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) student in Vocal Performance at The Catholic University of America. She brings a strong background in classical vocal training, performance, and music education to Music Love Academy.
As a performer, Zhe has appeared in operas, recitals, and concerts, gaining valuable experience in both solo and collaborative settings. Her advanced vocal studies have given her a strong foundation in healthy vocal production, breath support, diction, tone development, musical interpretation, and stage presence.
Zhe has experience teaching voice to both children and adults, as well as beginner piano to young students. In her lessons, she focuses on helping students build healthy technique, confidence, musical expression, and a solid understanding of musicianship. She believes that every student should feel supported and encouraged while also being challenged to grow.
Her teaching style is patient, positive, and individualized. Zhe adapts her approach to each student’s age, experience, goals, and learning style, creating lessons that are both productive and enjoyable.
At Music Love Academy, Zhe’s goal is to help students discover their unique musical voice, strengthen their skills, and develop a lasting love and appreciation for music.
Mr. Deonte
Piano, Voice, Acting & General Music
Mr. Deonte is a passionate music educator, performer, and conductor dedicated to helping students discover the joy and confidence that music brings. His musical journey began at age three, studying piano and singing in his church’s children’s choir. This early love of music continued to grow through choir, theater, and leadership opportunities throughout middle and high school.
Deonte has developed proficiency in multiple instruments, including piano, saxophone, trumpet, and bass, alongside a strong background in vocal performance and choral leadership. He earned a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance with a minor in Pipe Organ from Bridgewater College, where he served as the inaugural president of the Gospel Choir Club and directed the college’s men’s a cappella ensemble during his senior year.
As an experienced educator, Mr. McLean has taught elementary general music, middle school band and choir, and directed numerous school plays and musical theater productions. His diverse teaching background helps him connect with students of all ages and abilities, creating engaging lessons that inspire creativity, confidence, and a lifelong appreciation for music.
At Music Love Academy, Mr. McLean teaches piano, jazz piano, voice, jazz singing, beginner saxophone, trumpet, bass, general music, music theory, and musical theater. He believes every student has unique musical potential and creates a positive, encouraging environment where students feel motivated to grow, express themselves, and enjoy every step of their musical journey.
Mr. Mark
Cello, String & Piano
Mr. Mark is a professional cellist, composer, and dedicated music educator from the Hampton Roads area of Virginia. His passion for music began at an early age, when both the piano and cello captured his interest and inspired him to pursue a life in music.
Mr. Mark earned his Bachelor of Arts in Music with a concentration in String Pedagogy from George Mason University, where he developed his artistry as both a cellist and violinist while strengthening his expertise in music education. During his studies, he performed with numerous ensembles, including the Mason Symphony Orchestra, chamber ensembles, pit orchestra, and Mason Productions.
Since 2016, Mr. Mark has provided engaging, high-quality music instruction to students of all ages and experience levels. His teaching experience includes cello, violin, viola, double bass, piano, music theory, and music history. Over the years, he has worked with a wide range of educational and community organizations, including George Mason Community Arts Academy, American Youth Orchestra & Summer Strings Academy, Levine Music, Music for Life, Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS), DC Public Schools (DCPS), and other arts and education programs throughout the region.
At Music Love Academy, Mr. Mark brings warmth, creativity, and extensive teaching experience to every lesson. He believes that each student has unique musical potential and strives to create a positive and encouraging environment where students can build strong musical foundations, develop confidence, and—most importantly—fall in love with music.
When he is not teaching, Mr. Mark performs as Maestro The Cellist, combining the rich and expressive sound of the cello with a variety of musical genres to create innovative and memorable performances.
Dr. Sue
Piano & Voice
Dr. Sue is a classically trained pianist and educator who brings a thoughtful, personalized approach to teaching at Music Love Academy. She helps students develop strong technique, expressive musicianship, and confidence while nurturing a lasting appreciation for music.
With experience teaching students ages 5–18, Dr. Sue tailors repertoire and instruction to each learner’s interests, abilities, and goals. She has prepared students for international competitions and assessments through the Trinity College London Digital Certificate Program. Her lessons combine technical development, artistic interpretation, and effective practice habits in a supportive environment.
Dr. Sue received her foundational piano training under Professor SooJung Shin, a distinguished pianist and teacher in South Korea. She has also served on the faculty of Christian higher education institutions, teaching interdisciplinary courses such as The Transformative Power of Music and Film Project: Art in Action. These experiences inform her interest in the connections between music, culture, creativity, and personal growth.
She holds a Doctor of Divinity from Cornerstone College and Seminary in Virginia and has reached All But Dissertation status in a doctoral program at The George Washington University. Her additional training includes professional certifications in counseling and music therapy.
At Music Love Academy, Dr. Sue is committed to helping each student discover their musical strengths, take pride in their progress, and experience the joy of learning.
Ms. Tzu-Hsin
Piano/Composer/Music Educator
Ms. Tzu-Hsin is an accomplished pianist, composer, and music educator who is passionate about helping students develop confidence, creativity, and a lifelong appreciation for music. Her professional interests include music composition, recording, music theory, performance preparation, and the music synchronization industry. She continually explores effective methods for helping musicians build healthy confidence, productive practice habits, and strategies for managing performance anxiety.
Ms. Hsiao earned her music degree from George Mason University in 2007, where she studied under Dr. Linda Monson, Dr. Anna Balakerskaia, and Dr. Haroutounian. During her formative years, she studied with Marilynne Jost, who served for 26 years as the Falls Church–Vienna NFMC Spring Festival Area Chair until 2022.
As a Latter-day Saint pianist and teacher, Ms. Hsiao brings a compassionate, holistic approach to music education. She encourages open communication with students and their families, thoughtfully incorporating their feedback into individualized lesson plans. By working collaboratively with each family, she helps students identify areas for improvement, establish meaningful goals, and make steady progress over time.
For nearly two decades, Ms. Hsiao has served as a piano judge for the National Guild of Piano Teachers in Austin, Texas, and the National Federation of Music Clubs. Her students have earned numerous awards and trophies in recognition of their outstanding preparation and performances at music festivals and examinations.
Ms. Hsiao has also completed graduate-level coursework in Applied Behavior Analysis. This training has equipped her with effective and motivating strategies for teaching neurodivergent students, including children on the autism spectrum, as well as students with other special needs and gifted learners. She believes that every student possesses unique strengths and gifts, and she is committed to creating a supportive learning environment in which each student can thrive.
In addition to teaching and performing, Ms. Hsiao enjoys composing chamber music, including piano trios and quartets, as well as solo piano pieces. She continues to refine her compositions using professional music notation software and enjoys expanding her knowledge of recording, publishing, and the broader music industry.
Mr. Daniel
Piano
Daniel is a classical pianist and instructor at Music Love Academy, based in Arlington, Virginia. An accomplished performer and dedicated educator, Daniel brings a strong background in classical piano, chamber music, collaborative performance, improvisation, and musical exploration to his teaching.
Daniel has performed at Carnegie Hall and was a semifinalist for NPR’s From the Top. He was also selected for the pre-college piano performance programs at both Ithaca College and the Eastman School of Music, where he received merit scholarship recognition. He has performed extensively as both a soloist and chamber musician and continued his piano studies in Milan, Italy, in addition to earning his undergraduate degree from Grinnell College.
While at Grinnell, Daniel received the Curd Outstanding Instrumentalist Award, the college’s highest honor for student musicianship, for his performance of Ravel’s Une Barque sur L’Océan. The award supported independent music research in Spain. He is currently studying J.S. Bach’s Goldberg Variations and remains active in collaborative and chamber music settings.
Daniel’s musical interests extend beyond the traditional classical repertoire and include improvisation and contemporary music. He also performs with a Washington, D.C.-based band, bringing a broad and versatile musical perspective to his work with students.
As an instructor at Music Love Academy, Daniel emphasizes strong technique, musical understanding, and thoughtful practice while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and individual expression. His goal is to help each student build confidence, develop lasting musicianship, and discover a lifelong appreciation for music.
