Mimmy Hsu
Music Educator | Piano · Clarinet · Theory · Collaborative Piano
Mimmy has had the privilege of learning music across three continents and brings that breadth of experience to every lesson she teaches. Raised and educated in Canada, she grew up immersed in North America's rich and multicultural musical landscape, which shaped her appreciation for diverse musical traditions and approaches. She earned a Bachelor of Music in Clarinet Performance from the University of Toronto, a Master of Music from the Manhattan School of Music in New York, and a Certificate of Advanced Studies in Piano Performance from the Haute École de Musique de Genève, one of Europe’s most distinguished conservatories.
Throughout her studies, Mimmy had the opportunity to work with exceptional musicians, including clarinetists Joaquin Valdepeñas, Charles Neidich, and Connie Gitlin, as well as pianist Paul Coker in Geneva. Being shaped by so many voices and perspectives gave her a deep respect for the many ways music can be understood and interpreted, and this openness is central to her teaching philosophy.
As a performer, Mimmy has appeared as a soloist, chamber musician, collaborative pianist, and orchestral musician across North America and Europe, including in pit orchestras for musicals and opera productions. These experiences instilled in her a lasting respect for the dedication and patience musical growth requires, and she brings that understanding to every student she teaches.
Now based in South Surrey and White Rock, Mimmy offers private lessons in English, Mandarin, or bilingually. She welcomes piano students aged 5 and up and clarinet students aged 8 and up, guiding each learner on their unique musical journey. She is a registered RCM teacher and a teacher partner of the Vancouver Chopin Society, reflecting her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of music education while staying actively connected to the wider musical community.
Mimmy’s teaching focuses on helping students truly understand and experience music. She emphasizes tone, phrasing, and musical logic over rote memorization, giving students the tools and confidence to express themselves freely. Her goal is to create a space where learners feel supported, never rushed, and encouraged to grow at their own pace, whether they are just starting out, returning after a break, or preparing for RCM examinations and other performance goals.
Beyond technique and repertoire, Mimmy seeks to inspire curiosity, confidence, and a lasting love of music in every student. She believes that music is not only heard, but truly felt, and she strives to make every lesson a meaningful step in each student’s musical journey.
Stories From My Students
“Grace had the privilege of receiving piano lessons from Mimmy at the age of 6. With patience and encouragement from Mimmy, Grace could really be herself in choosing what songs to play and even what directions to be led. What amazes me even more is that when Mimmy knew that Grace is also learning French at school, she switched to French language to be friendly. How thoughtful!”
— Parent of Grace, 6, Piano“Even now, she still talks about you often, saying how much she loved taking lessons with you — she has even been asking to come back to you. The time she spent learning with you was the happiest and most engaged she has ever been with piano. You were incredibly patient, always finding ways to guide her that she could understand and accept, and you had a real gift for encouraging her. Thank you sincerely for being part of her musical journey. I truly believe that any student who gets to learn from you in the future will be very fortunate. Wishing you all the best!”
— Parent of Olivia (former student), 8, Piano“Teacher Mimmy was my daughter’s very first clarinet tutor and musical mentor. She is incredibly patient and attentive with children, and she is always gentle and never gets angry. My daughter truly loves her very much. If she had not moved back to Canada, I sincerely would have hoped that she could continue teaching my daughter for as long as possible and guide her to the highest level she could teach.”
— Parent of Ariel (former student), 10, Clarinet