Today we’d like to introduce you to Zheng Shao.
Hi Zheng, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I began studying piano at a young age and eventually pursued professional training in classical music, focusing on piano performance and composition. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work in many different musical roles – as a pianist, composer, choir director, voice teacher, and church organist. These experiences gave me a broad perspective on how music functions both as an art form and as an important part of community life.
Most recently, I had the opportunity to conduct a choir director at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts here in Kansas City, which was a very meaningful experience.
While performing has always been an important part of my musical life, I gradually realized that teaching was something I felt deeply passionate about. I love helping students discover how music works beneath the surface – not just learning pieces, but understanding the structure, expression, and ideas behind the music.
Today I run a private piano studio where I work with students of different ages and backgrounds. My goal is to help students build strong musical foundations while also developing confidence, creativity, and a lifelong appreciation for music.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
One of the biggest challenges has been building a studio from the ground up in a new community. When you move to a new place, even with a strong musical background, you still have to earn people’s trust and build relationships from the beginning.
In the early stages, that meant starting small and focusing on connecting with families, students, and the local community. Teaching music is not just about technical skills – it’s also about communication, trust, and helping students feel inspired and supported.
Over time, those relationships have grown naturally. Seeing students develop confidence, musical understanding, and a genuine love for music has been incredibly rewarding. It reminds me that building something meaningful often takes patience, persistence, and a long-term commitment to both students and the community.
Looking back, the challenges were actually an important part of the journey, because they helped shape the studio into what it is today.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I work as a classical musician and educator, with a background that includes piano performance, composition, choir directing, voice teaching, and church organ work. Having worked in several different areas of music has shaped the way I think about teaching and musicianship.
Today much of my work focuses on teaching piano and helping students build a deep understanding of music. In my studio, I emphasize not only learning pieces, but also understanding how music works — including harmony, structure, expression, and historical context. I believe that when students understand the language of music, they become more confident, independent, and expressive musicians.
One of the things I care about most is helping students develop long-term musical foundations rather than simply learning pieces quickly. I want students to gain skills that will stay with them for many years, whether they continue music professionally or simply keep it as an important part of their lives.
What sets my teaching apart is the combination of rigorous classical training with a thoughtful, individualized approach. Every student learns differently, and I enjoy finding ways to help each student connect with music in a meaningful and lasting way.
What matters most to you? Why?
What matters most to me is helping students develop a genuine understanding and lasting relationship with music. I believe music is much more than learning notes on a page – it is a language, a way of thinking, and a way of expressing ideas and emotions.
In my teaching, I care deeply about helping students understand how music works beneath the surface: harmony, structure, phrasing, and musical expression. When students begin to see these connections, music becomes much more meaningful and rewarding for them.
I also believe that music education can shape the way students think and approach challenges. Learning an instrument requires patience, curiosity, discipline, and creativity, and those qualities often extend far beyond music itself.
For me, the most meaningful part of my work is seeing students gradually develop confidence, independence, and a genuine love for music that can stay with them throughout their lives.
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