Testimonials

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TESTIMONIALS

“My daughter Natasha wanted to learn the flute as she enjoys the sound it made. So I searched and found Flute and Music Academy which happened to be near my place. During the learning journey, all the teachers and staff have been great! They did their best to help Natasha achieve her goals and pushed her out of her comfort zone to take part in a live performance. She has also greatly enjoyed her weekly lessons. I hope this will also translate to love of music for life for her. I would recommend this school!” Melanie Bilsland, Natasha’s mother

“When I wanted to learn the Saxophone at about 10yo, FAMA was the only school that provided this service. I have not only learnt to play the Saxophone but I have also learnt a lot of life principles and values with the Saxophone teachers. This journey has made my life more meaningful. I would recommend this school to anyone who wish to start the Saxophone.” Billy

“FAMA has given Sarah an opportunity to learn a beautiful and versatile instrument. When she was in primary school, Sarah expressed interest in flute. So I enrolled her into FAMA as it is a premier flute school. Besides learning to play the flute, she has also learned values such as discipline and persistence. Her teacher has also lots of constructive feedback throughout her entire course. Sarah continues her learning in concert school band in secondary school.” –Michelle, Mum of Sarah

"FAMA has allowed me to grow in my music development in my formative 6 years. I attained both my Piano Performing DipABRSM and Piano Teaching DipABRSM under the tutelage of Ms Lin Shumei. My lessons with Ms Lin not only covers piano playing but also music knowledge and theory. She has also guided my when I was studying in the 'O' Level and 'A' Level Music Elective Programmes. When I started to teach and work at FAMA, I also realised the teachers here take a holistic approach to teaching their students. I definitely appreciate the opportunities that FAMA has given me both as a student and a staff."

“My child Andy started to take interest in the Saxophone after experiencing Saxophone in the school’s Musical Programme. Hence I was looking for a teacher and FAMA happened to be nearby. We had a good impression of the first trial with Mr Leslie Wong and Andy’s musical growth with the Saxophone started from there. During this period of time, the teachers have been professional patient and very responsible. Andy has learned much about practice, self-discipline and time-management. He also understands Saxophone music and other woodwind instruments much better. He has also learnt how to collaborate with pianists. I am sure all these will improve Andy’s future study and life in a positive way.” –Andy’ mum (Andy completed Grade 8 Saxophone)

“I started my music education in FAMA because of the variety of instruments I am interested to pursue: Piano, Saxophone & Violin. From the 5 years in the school, I learned much about the art of practice (attention, efficiency and intensity) and how to approach various musical styles. I was also guided well for my MEP exams. All in all, my music journey here has broadened my perspectives on the intricacies of music and gave me a greater appreciation for the Arts. I would recommend FAMA to others.” Sean Lian (Piano G8, Violin G8, Saxophone G3)

“I heard that FAMA is a good music school, so I continued my studies here after coming back from Hong Kong. During my course at FAMA, one of the skills I have improved most is Sight Reading skills. My teacher guided me well in areas that I am unsure. I have also learnt how to be more independent in how to address my problems during practices.” – David Son, Piano Grade 5

“I first joined FAMA through recommendation and for the good reputation. It was a good chance for me to pick up my clarinet again with lots of fun. The teachers and staff at FAMA are very supportive and it made me enjoy the class a lot. During my course there, clarinet is for me to chill out after intense working days. I would even consider learning the Saxophone later. I would highly recommend this school for those who want to learn winds.” –Li Zhuoran

“I joined FAMA because of the good reviews and they have classes for the instruments that I wanted to pick up. I have gained good foundation and proper techniques for playing. The teachers (of various instruments) provided a lot of guidance and pointers on how to play better. It was enjoyable playing music together with my teacher. Starting music lessons at FAMA enabled me to rediscover my interest in music playing and brought some fun into my life”
--Audris, Saxophone and Clarinet

“I studied Clarinet grade 1 – 5 at FAMA in an interesting and informative way. There are concert opportunities and through them over the years, I have learnt to perform confidently and have fun at the same time. My teacher gives adequate homework (not too much) so that I can still learn a lot of things. Learning a new instrument helps me feel happy and it mean that I have used my time wisely.”
–Caitlyn Scott-Lee, Clarinet Grade 5

“I was considering playing either flute or clarinet and I found FAMA on internet, which specialises in woodwind. After starting the clarinet course, I have gained proper technique, including understanding the keys, “crossing the break” and paying attention to time, articulation and dynamics. Prior to this, I’d just been messing around with the clarinet (or Saxophone). My teacher, Ms Satsuki Goh, paid very close attention to the details, converting my sloppy hand/finger position and breathing techniques. She had many little exercises that helped me overcome bad habits and develop new skills and I have finally crossed the break cleanly! Learning clarinet gave me the joy of music and a calming, meditative practice.. Personally, I had a great time learning the clarinet here and would recommend this school.” Colin Cheong, Clarinet Grade 1

“My daughter Narahda was in school band playing the flute and she was interested to achieve a grade 8 in Flute. After some research and recommendation, we chose FAMA to pursue her dreams as they specialised in Flute (even though we live in the West). FAMA and her flute teacher had been very supportive of her flute learning all the way. Her flute skills have grown to be much polished (over just two years). We had a very satisfying and fulfilling journey with FAMA.” —Mr Lim Chee Ming, father of Narahda, who scored distinction for ABRSM Grade 8 Flute

“After joining FAMA, I have gained more flute playing experience and made more friends through the FAMA Concerts. The Flute teachers here gave me good advice on flute playing. For example, they effectively teach me how to ensure good breath support. This helped my tone improve remarkably and I felt more confident about myself. They are also very qualified to guide me through exams and various auditions. Studying in FAMA would is one of my best choices as my flute playing has improved tremendously as compared to being taught by schools seniors. I definitely have a better understanding of flute playing now!” – Julien Quek, Flute Student

"I joined FAMA because it specialises in woodwind instruments and the instructors are professional in their instruments. In just three lessons, I learnt much about my embouchure and getting a better tone. I am also made more aware of my rhythm and how to play on time. My teacher, Satsuki Goh has been very encouraging and patient in her guidance. I felt significant improvement in my playing and this made me more passionate about music.”--Ryan Yap, Clarinet Student

"I started my advanced courses of both the piano and flute at Flute and Music Academy. The teachers here (Ms Wang Tong and Ms Adeline Ee) have supported me through the course with much encouragement. They have effectively instilled a new passion of playing the flute and piano in me. I have gained fresh interest in music and I am considering to further my music education." Chong Mun Rong (Diploma in Piano and Flute Student)

BENEDICT LEE Flute Student, who progressed from beginner to Grade 2 Level in 6 months

"I started the flute with Flute and Music Academy when I saw a promotion for entry flutes. The classrooms are nice and very conducive for learning. Throughout the course, Ms Liu Qing is very patient in explaining things I do not understand and is effective in correcting my mistakes. I learnt much about breathing techniques by learning the flute and that indirectly teaches me to be more relaxed when doing things. I have also learnt to manage my time better with my additional flute commitments. I enjoy playing in the flute ensemble too and would look forward to performing in more ensemble.”

ANDREW LUA FLY Entertainment Artiste

“The Emperor’s New Clothes by Wild Rice, is definitely the most challenging musical I've done the past decade. On top of being triple threats (Acting, Singing & Dancing),we had to play instruments as well. I've been tasked the challenge of performing with the trumpet & saxophone, instruments I've not played since I was in school. Help was in order to brush off the rust and I had the privilege of having my saxophone sessions with Mr Ho Pan Liang. It was a good chance for me to revisit the fundamentals again. We worked on scales, articulation, phrasings and tones. I am extremely grateful to the Flute and Music Academy (FAMA) for offering the opportunity and the guidance given by Pan Liang. The school is indeed an expert in the area of Saxophone and other Woodwind Lessons.”

Shirley Tong Current Flute/Piano Teacher, former student of Master Flute Teacher Wang Tong

Wang Tong was my first professional teacher after self-learning the flute for many years. I am very grateful to her in many ways. Not only did she guide me well through my grade 8 practical exams on flute, she encouraged and helped me fulfill my audition recording criteria, which got me a place in Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama in UK. Without that first step in the college, I would not be able to progress further to where I am now as a Masters graduate from Royal Academy of Music. She had also given me loads of advices about studying abroad. Even between my holidays back in Singapore, I would go to Wang Tong for consultation lessons on orchestral excerpts to prepare in advance for my exams in the following year of my college. I know of Wang Tong as a patient, caring and a motherly teacher." -- Shirley Tong, Masters in Flute and Piccolo

" I joined FAMA as they were very kind to help me arrange lessons due to my flexible timings. My teacher (Leong Gah Chiong), is very generous and gave me motivation to learn. I have attained much theory knowledge and violin skills. I also had a good relationship with my teacher. Learning with FAMA had been definitely a good decision in my stay in Singapore as it made my temporary stay here productive and enjoyable."
--Kang Jeeye Ella, Violin Student from Korea

Fiona Ng Piano Pedagogy Student

"Ms Lin Shumei is a excellent teacher and mentor for anyone looking to pursue a great achievement and enjoyment in piano studies. She is a patient and professional teacher who will push and encourage you to do your best with every piece, not only paying attention to technical details but to the emotion and story that the piece should express. Being a part-time teacher under her previously, I have heard her perform on the piano. This is her forte and she is a talented and sensitive performer. She plays music with excellent technique and taste. I have taken lessons with her for a year for ABRSM dip (teaching) and have obtained a vast amount of knowledge and skills. One of it is the importance of interpretation. Technique without emotions are merely technique. Throughout the time I have known her, she has a great sense of humour and interacts well with her students. I am glad I had the privilege to meet Shumei; to have workedunder her before and be her student. I appreciate her for giving me the opportunity to further my piano studies. I would recommend her for anyone looking for a solid and enjoyable music education and for anyone willing to work hard for amazing results."

Law Jun Wen former student of Ms Lin Shumei (Class of 2012)

“When I first joined the 'O' level music course in Dunman High, I was not very sure if I could cope with the content of the course with 10 other subjects and Co-Curriculum activities. I only had Grade 5 Music Theory then and for the first few tests in this course, I did not do well at all. I was very disappointed and was thinking about giving up this course. However, Ms Lin encouraged me to continue this course and she said she had faith in me doing well. She also explained to me things which I did not understand after the classes. Soon after her dedicated teaching, my grade started to improve tremendously Ms Lin also encouraged me to take on higher composition as Higher Music at the end of the first year of the course.

During the whole 'O' Level Music course, my interest for Classical Music grew. I found Ms Lin's lessons musically immersible engaging and fun. Her explanations and resources were also detailed and adequate, allowing me to have a greater understanding of what were taught.

With an A1 and merit in Higher Music in 'O' Level, I decided to pursue 'A' Level Music at National Junior College. This might not have been possible without Ms Lin's constant encouragement and varied teaching methods which instilled much passion of music in me for the two years. I am truly grateful for Ms Lin's inspirational teaching and I am sure she would continue to exert great influence on other students!"

“I bought a flute on a whim and couldn’t get a sound out of it! It got me very curious about playing it so the biggest things I got from the course is being able to play this lovely instrument. The course also helped any understanding and application of music. My teacher, Liu Qing, is an excellent teacher! She is patient and encouraging when teaching me. She also showed me how to do a lot of things beyond my exam syllabus that opened up a lot more repertoire for me to explore. Learning flute and FAMA helped me realise that playing an instrument is not just for the gifted. There’s a joy in practice as it takes you away from all other things for awhile. Being able to apply a piece well is its own rewards. Passing exams are just a bonus. And performing on stage is a blast! I would certainly recommend this school for flute.” Colin Cheong, Flute Grade 2

" I first came to FAMA because the faculty looks good. I have opportunities presenting songs and I have good experience playing the instrument. My teacher, Mr Luo Tianze, has been patient and his clear explanation is helpful. He is also able to pitch the learning to my level and in general demonstrates good pedagogy. From this course, it has enhanced the aesthetic aspect of my life and the discipline to practise has strengthened my competency of time management too." --Alan Tan, Saxophone

BEN WONG casts as the Minister who plays the flute in the Emperor’s New Clothes (2015)

“Flute and Music Academy was a great help to me when I was in Wild Rice's Emperor's New Clothes where we had to sing, act, dance and play instruments. It was definitely an amazing experience pushing ourselves to do all of those in one production.
My lessons with Wang Tong showed me that she was meticulous with technique and the tone of my flute playing improved. Also she did minute corrections to my finger placements on the keys to create more freedom, and suggested new fingerings for clearer and finer sounds in the highest register. Such precise technique caused significant changes in my flute playing and I'm very grateful for it. I am excited to recommend Wang Tong and FAMA for music lessons."

Dana Seah
"Wang Tong is an exceptionally dedicated and experienced music mentor. She subscribes to the tenet that “Every child is different” and goes at length to understand what motivates my child and customizes her lessons to bring out the potential of my child. Despite her hectic schedule, she also spends time and effort updating and upgrading herself on the development and progress of flute techniques and delivery methods. She effectively integrates these new techniques into the music that my child is interested in and communicates in a way that my child understands. To my child, it is learning with pure joy, without pressure or stress. My child loves to attend Wang Lao Shi’s lessons. She feels a sense of mastery and achievement after every lesson due to Wang Tong Lao Shi’s uncompromised demand of quality and standards. Even though it is “tough” for her, she enjoys her classes and looks forward to Wang Tong Lao Shi’s lessons week after week. Every interaction with her is priceless and treasured. Wang Tong Lao Shi is an inspiring mentor who seeks to instill confidence and mastery in playing the flute through learning music joyfully. We are glad we have the opportunity to learn from her!” – Mrs Angelia Seah, Dana’s Mum

Nathanael Ng Flute Student (started around 7 years old)

" My son wanted to pick up the flute, so I joined FAMA as this is the only school I found that taught music to younger children. His flute teacher Ms Ke Yi-Chun, has been very patient and encouraging. She doesn’t stress him to complete the pieces but is focused on getting him to learn the right techniques at his own pace. She creates a positive experience in his music journey and is always very encouraging. She also goes the extra mile by being very organised and prompt with scheduling make-up lessons. He has learnt that it is perseverance and hard work that helps him to improve his playing. If he does not work at it, he knows he will not be able to play smoothly. What has impacted me is since I have no musical background, I see Nathanael having fun trying out his own tunes of figuring out notes on his own." -- Serene, Mum of Nathanael Ng

Jane Seah Hing Kid (Middle) Piano Diploma/MEP Student

"In September 2012, I was introduced to Ms Lin Shumei and began lessons with her in preparation for my "O" Level exams in 2013.
Under Ms Lin's tutelage at FAMA, I grew immensely as a musician. The opportunities created by Ms Lin for me to perform publicly helped overcome my initial lack of self-confidence and was crucial in my development as a performer. Ms Lin never hesitated to encourage me and to provide me with a stage on which to perform. She emboldened me to work towards mastering pieces I had thought infeasible by giving insightful feedback and advocating ways of practicing effectively – all of which contributed to my vast improvements. She also prepared efficacious resources to aid me in my preparation for the "O" Levels where I achieved an A1 with a Distinction in Higher Music, over and above receiving the Subject Prize for MEP.
I continued in the MEP in junior college and found the "A" Level syllabus demanding at first. However, with Ms Lin's abiding dedication and guidance, I attained my diploma as well as obtained the A grade for "A" Level Music. As a student at Temasek Junior College, I was awarded the MOE Music Elective Scholarship. To me, this award is recognition less of my own achievements, but more of the efforts of the teachers I have had. Although I will not be pursuing a musical career, music will certainly remain a big part of my life thanks to the love for music which Ms Lin has inspired within me."

Dr Foo Suan Fong Principal of Dunman High School (2013)

“Shumei is a passionate and nurturing teacher. She prepared her students well for the General Certificate of Education Ordinary Level (G.C.E. O-Level) Music Examination, achieving higher than national average number of distinctions. More importantly, she is also an inspiring mentor. Her students have graduated to further pursue music at top institutions such as Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, Yong Siew Toh Conservatory, King’s College London, Royal College of Music and University of Birmingham. Her deep subject knowledge and mastery in innovative teaching strategies are reasons why many students excelled under her tutelage when she was teaching at Dunman High School.”