About Kristie
Hi, I'm Kristie Woo, an RCM piano and music theory teacher based in Vancouver, B.C. With 9 years of teaching of teaching experience, an ARCT in Piano Performance, and a Teaching Certificate in Elementary Pedagogy from the Royal Conservatory of Music, I bring a high standard, structured approach to every lesson, and a genuine commitment to each student’s long-term growth.
I was awarded First Class Honours with Distinction in Level 10 Piano and First Class Honours with ARCT, placing above the national average. My background in both music and psychology - I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from UBC, shapes how I teach. It allows me to understand not only the material, but how students learn, process information, and perform under pressure, especially in exam settings.
My studio is best suited for students who are ready to commit to consistent practice and are open to structure, guidance, and accountability.
Inside the Studio
Students work on technique, repertoire, sight-reading, and theory in an integrated way, while also learning how to practice effectively on their own. I place a strong emphasis on consistency and accountability, while guiding students to think independently and reflect on their progress.
As students advance, they begin to take greater ownership of their learning, moving from external motivation to a genuine sense of pride in their work.
Inside the studio“I got Steven’s score, and he did a good job with your help. Thank you again. I would like to share another piece of good news. Steven got a spot for the Shad summer campus program, which was partly contributed to by your letter. The organizer said that the applications were far more than in past years, so all the candidates who finally got the offer should be very proud of themselves. Thank you for your generous reference letter.”
— Michelle (Parent)
Graduated Level 8 Theory student achieving First Class Honours with Distinction through Levels 5-8
More than music
Over the years, I've worked with many students who had potential but lacked the structure or foundation to progress. Helping these students rebuild, grow, and take ownership of their learning has become the focus of my teaching.
Many come from backgrounds where they've completed exams but still struggle with consistency, confidence, or fundamental skills. Rather than pushing them too quickly, I take the time to rebuild their foundation properly — strengthening technique, developing musical understanding, and establishing effective practice habits.
Instead of relying on memorization alone, students learn how to understand what they are playing, think critically, and approach challenges with clarity.
Over time, this leads to real, measurable results:
Students who once struggled with scale fingering develop a strong technical foundation and play fluently and confidently beyond RCM minimum tempo requirements
Shy or hesitant students become more comfortable expressing themselves musically and responding to feedback in a safe, supportive environment
Students with no prior music theory background go on to pass official RCM exams, often earning First Class Honours and higher
This is what it looks like when a student stops just getting through lessons and starts taking ownership of their musicianship.
A Personal Note
My own musical training shaped the way I teach today. I grew up with music and still remember the day I asked my mom for piano lessons. It was something I chose for myself. I also remember what it felt like to want to quit, and what it took to keep going. Because of that, I understand both the joy and the difficulty of learning music. When students feel frustrated or discouraged, I don’t dismiss it. I meet them in that moment and help them move through it.
If you are looking for a supportive environment where your child will be challenged, held accountable, and genuinely proud of their progress, I’d love to connect!
Ready to get started?
From first notes to Royal Conservatory exams, students develop the skills, repertoire, and confidence needed to succeed at every stage.