Megaria Halim

To me, music is both powerful and delicate. It has the strength to evoke deep emotions, tell stories, and bring people together across cultures and generations. At the same time, it carries a certain fragility—expressing the subtlest nuances of feeling, capturing fleeting moments, and resonating in ways that words often cannot.

Music fosters perseverance and discipline and at the same time brings joy. It remains both deeply personal and universally unifying. My greatest passion is inspiring students to explore and discover this beauty for themselves.

Promoting Diversity in Repertoire
Each year, I will incorporate one or two contemporary works into my students’ studies, alongside music by women composers and other historically underrepresented voices. These works are just as essential as the classical canon and deserve to be explored and appreciated. This inclusive approach was central to my undergraduate training, and I have found it to be an invaluable asset beyond academia. Exposure to contemporary music not only broadens artistic perspectives but also fosters creativity and adaptability. By integrating these works into my teaching, I aim to inspire curiosity, challenge traditional perceptions, and expand my students’ musical horizons. A well-rounded musical education should embrace both the timeless masterpieces of the past and the innovative compositions of the present, ensuring that students develop a rich, versatile, and forward-thinking artistic foundation.

Accessibility
I firmly believe that music and education should be accessible for everyone. My goal is to break down barriers and create opportunities for more inclusive musical experiences. Students are encouraged to participate in studio performance as much as they can. They are also encouraged to attend performances in the community. I also encourage my students to explore musical styles beyond classical traditions. As the saying goes, “You can’t love what you don’t know.” Firsthand experience is the best teacher, and by embracing diverse musical languages, we can cultivate a deeper appreciation for music in all its forms.

Encouraging Open Communication
As a collaborative pianist, I see myself as an educator in many ways. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with musicians and students from diverse backgrounds, each bringing unique playing styles, perspectives, and artistic voices. These experiences have reinforced my belief in the importance of open and respectful communication during the rehearsal process. When all participants feel comfortable expressing their thoughts, collaboration becomes more meaningful, artistic intentions gain clarity, and the music itself reaches new depths.

I strive to foster this same environment in my studio. I encourage students to share their ideas—not only with me as their instructor but also with their peers—because meaningful learning extends beyond the classroom. Music is, at its core, a shared experience, and by fostering open dialogue, we can all continue to grow, refine our artistry, and inspire one another.

My journey as a musician has continually shaped my teaching philosophy, and I remain committed to evolving alongside my students, embracing new ideas and perspectives along the way.

I am also teaching at Maple and Spruce Music Academy, located at Westmount Shopping Centre, London (ON)