BIO

Zoe Chau - Violinist, Violist, and Music Educator

​

Zoe Chau is a violinist, violist, and music educator based in Boston, Massachusetts. A graduate of the Longy School of Music of Bard College, Ms. Chau holds dual master’s degrees in Violin Performance and Viola Performance. Her primary violin studies were with Anna Maria Williams, and her viola studies were guided by Sarah Darling. In 2018, she earned the Licentiate (LTCL) Performance Diploma in Violin Performance with Distinction and the Associate (ATCL) Performance Diploma in Viola Performance from Trinity College London, showcasing her exceptional artistry and technical proficiency.

 

As a performer, Ms. Chau is known for her diverse musical styles—from baroque to fiddle music. She is an active musician in the Boston area, performing regularly with local orchestras and chamber music ensembles. Additionally, she contributes her talents as a baroque violist with the Harvard Baroque Chamber Orchestra, further demonstrating her deep engagement with historical performance practices.

 

Ms. Chau is also a dedicated music educator and the founder of Zoe Chau Studio. As certified Suzuki teacher, Ms. Chau began her teaching career in Hong Kong in 2014 and established her studio upon relocating to Boston. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes technical excellence, musical expression, and a love for music, which has led her students to achieve outstanding results in ABRSM (Royal Academy of Music) examinations.

 

In addition to her private studio, Ms. Chau has conducted string ensembles at schools in Boston and Dedham, further enriching the musical education of young musicians. Her students are actively involved in prestigious programs such as NEC Prep Ensembles, Rivers Youth Orchestras, and various school and community orchestras, reflecting her commitment to cultivating well-rounded musicians.

 

Combining her passion for performance and education, Ms. Chau continues to inspire both audiences and students alike, making significant contributions to the musical community in Boston and beyond.​​

 

TEACHING  PHILOSOPHY

“There is a saying: 'By learning you will teach, by teaching you will learn.' For me, teaching and learning are interconnected in a continuous cycle. The study of violin and viola performance is a lifelong journey of musical exploration. Through teaching, I aim to guide my students to engage deeply with music, encouraging independent thinking—a skill that extends beyond music and provides long-term benefits in all areas of life.

​

In addition to teaching technical skills such as repertoire, proper playing technique, and instrument care, I place equal emphasis on engaging students according to their interests and abilities. I believe that education is not one-size-fits-all. Every student is unique and has something valuable to contribute to their learning process. My role is to help students discover their strengths and encourage creative thinking. In an ideal learning environment, students can express themselves freely and develop the confidence to work independently.

​

I strive to foster an open and positive atmosphere for my students. Creating a welcoming, comfortable learning environment can make a significant difference in their progress. I also draw upon Vygotsky’s theory of scaffolding: “When students receive the support they need while learning something new, they stand a better chance of using that knowledge independently.” My goal is to provide this support, building my students' abilities and helping them achieve their goals. I continuously assess whether my curriculum is effective, reflecting on how I can better assist my students in their growth. I believe these are fundamental responsibilities of a good educator.

​

For me, the passion in music is a lifelong friend of exploring new strategies, ideas, and philosophies—not only to improve my own proficiency but also to inspire my students to continue their journey of self-improvement. William Butler Yeats once said, “Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” This quote encapsulates the essence of my teaching philosophy: to ignite the passion and motivation in my students to pursue their personal goals. While this is a challenging task, it is a goal that every good educator should strive to achieve.