Daniel Tsang has been teaching music at RCHK for almost four years. Students who have been taught by him are familiar with his easy-going personality and his love for his work. The RCHK Truth decided to ask him a few questions about his life and experiences, as well as various tips surrounding the music syllabus.

First off, could you give us some basic background info about yourself?

I was born in Hong Kong but grew up in Toronto, Canada. I studied and worked there for a number of years before moving back to Hong Kong eight years ago. I have taught music for many years and have taught all divisions - from kindergarten to secondary school. I have a daughter who is almost three years old and a son who just turned one.  They don't know how to play the piano yet, but soon they will!  

What other jobs have you had before Renaissance?

I have taught at a few international schools in Hong Kong prior to Renaissance, and have taught in public schools in Toronto. I have also acted as the music director of musicals, improv. troupes, and conducted community choirs while I was in Toronto. In addition to teaching, I have also been a church organist.

Could you describe your best experience in RCHK?

This would be conducting the band in Chicago, the musical. Seeing how everyone worked so hard to put on a show in such a short time was a very rewarding experience.   

Do you have any artists or pieces right now that you’re listening to a lot?

I quite enjoy listening to Classical, Jazz and Jpop. Currently, the artists I listen to the most are Yuuri, Yoasobi and Fujii Kaze. 

What’s your advice for people who are struggling with the music syllabus a bit?

Start with listening to a variety of music. Try to be intentional on what to listen for in the piece and think about what attracted you to it. This could be a specific rhythmic pattern, the melody, the chord progressions, the instrumentations or even the tempo. Listen to what they did and focus on one aspect at a time. Perhaps that could help motivate further studying in this area. 

In your professional opinion, who do you think will win Idol this year?

Tang of course!