Music Centre - ISA International Academy

ISAIA Music Centre

Where Your Growth Resonates with the Music Masters

ISAIA Music Centre is a dynamic and inspiring hub where students can explore their passion for music and develop their musical talents. Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and led by a team of experienced and dedicated music educators, the centre offers a comprehensive range of music programmes designed to cater to the diverse needs and interests of students. Whether students are beginners or advanced musicians, the Music Centre provides a supportive and stimulating environment to nurture their musical journey.

ISA x GSO Strategic Partnership Launch

Student Symphony Orchestra Selection at ISA

School will initiate the selection process for the "ISA Student Symphony Orchestra" (open to ISA students with a basic proficiency in musical instruments). Those selected will undergo a tailored training programme co-designed by the Guangzhou Symphony Orchestra and the school, involving regular rehearsals and periodic performances. These students will also have the potential to represent the school in music competitions across the Greater Bay Area and even at international levels, showcasing their artistic talents under professional guidance.

Core Advantages by Guangzhou Symphony Orchestra

Receive Training from Renowned Masters

Senior musicians from the Guangzhou Symphony Orchestra will visit the ISA Liwan campus weekly to conduct sectional rehearsals and guide students in preparing for top-tier concerts. Building a valuable platform for children to connect with the professional art world.

Chance to Perform on the World’s Premier Stages

By joining the ISA Student Symphony Orchestra, we will collaborate with the Guangzhou Symphony Orchestra to create a top-tier student orchestra, helping students to enjoy world-class platforms and resources, and step onto the brilliant international stage.

Links to Renowned Master Resources

Members of the ISA Student Symphony Orchestra will have the chance to engage in face-to-face conversations and in-depth discussions with world-class masters, sparking artistic growth through inspirational interactions.

Introduction of the Guangzhou Symphony Orchestra

Since its founding in 1957, the Guangzhou Symphony Orchestra (GSO) has developed into one of China’s most artistically superb and vibrant orchestral institutions. It is the first and only Chinese symphony orchestra to have toured and performed on five continents, receiving acclaim as “one of China’s most prestigious music ensembles” (China Daily) and “China’s nexus of musical tradition and innovation” (Financial Times of London).

In September 2023, Huang Yi becomes GSO’s third Music Director, succeeding Long Yu, Chairman of the China Musicians Association’s League of China Orchestras, who was hailed by the New York Times as “the most powerful figure in China’s Western classical music scene.” In recognition of Yu at the helm of the GSO for two brilliant decades (2003–2023), the GSO bestowed the title of “Honorary Music Director for Life” to him as he continues to chair its artistic committee.

In December 2011, the GSO established its affiliate youth orchestra, later renamed the Guangzhou Symphony Youth Orchestra (August 2016), the first amateur youth orchestra administered by a professional orchestra in China. Since 2017, the GSO has organized its annual Youth Music Culture Guangdong, renamed in 2023 Youth Music Culture the Greater Bay Area, with Long Yu serving as chair of its artistic committee and conductor Daniel Harding as YMCG Music Director (2024–2028), succeeding cellist Yo-Yo Ma (2017–2022). At its inauguration in January 2017, YMCG immediately garnered acclaim for “opening a new page in the Chinese symphonic world.” In 2023, it received the China Music Arts Promotion Award.

Introduction of the Guangzhou Symphony Youth Orchestra

Founded in July 2011, Guangzhou Symphony Youth Orchestra (GSYO) is the first-ever youth orchestra in China organized and administered by a professional orchestra. Since its founding it has performed more than 200 concerts. Beginning in September 2015, the GSYO established its own concert season, the first among China’s non-professional orchestras. Among the musicians who have appeared with the GSYO are maestros Long Yu and Tan Dun. The GSYO has been tasked with outreach efforts by the Guangzhou Municipal Government at home and abroad, and its superb performances have won wide acclaim.

The GSYO is dedicated to discovering and creating a working model for non-professional youth orchestras. It has now become the most outstanding youth orchestra in China, shouldering the mantle of international cultural exchange and representing Guangzhou’s own culture by displaying the energetic spirit and artistic achievements of China’s youth to the world.

Course Introduction

Music High School Curriculum

Music High School Programme for Y9-12 at ISA Liwan offers specialized guidance for students in Grades 9 to 12 who are interested in pursuing music as a major.

Grade	G9	G11
Compulsory Courses for International Music Exams	IGCSE Music	A Level Music/A Level Music Technology/BTEC Music
Specialist Music Programme	First Major, Second Major (Elective), Music Production/Music Technology, Instrumental Ensemble/Repertoire Class for Singers, Musicianship, Performance Seminar
Extracurricular Activities	Choir, Music Summer School, Lunch Concert, Professional Concerts, Masterclasses in Music, Music Lectures
Compulsory Courses for International Exams of Comprehensive Subjects	Chinese English Mathematics
Elective Courses for International Exams of Comprehensive Subjects	Biology, Chemistry, Physics, CS, Geography, History, Economics, Business Humanities/Science select one
School - based Compulsory Courses	PEH, UGC, Assembly, Advisory Time
Standardized Test Courses	TOEF, IELTS, SAT
After - school Courses and Student Societies	Academic, STEAM, Arts, Music, Sports

One on One Instrument/Vocal Lessons

One-on-one and group instrumental and vocal courses are provided to meet the diverse learning needs of different students.

Piano
String
Woodwind
Brass
Percussion
Vocal Performance

Customised Music Programme

Customised music courses are designed for students in grades 1 to 12, supporting those who have the intention to pursue further education in music and plan to enter music high school programmes.

Instrumental and Vocal Performance

Piano
String
Woodwind
Brass
Percussion
Vocal

Music Theory

Solfège
Music Theory
Harmony
Musical Form
Counterpoint

Music Composition

Composition
Music Production
Music Technology

International Music Courses

IGCSE Music
A Level Music
A Level Music Technology

Conducting

Orchestral Conducting

ABRSM Music Theory

Grade 1-5

Performance Opportunities

All students who participate in the courses of the music center will be given additional performance opportunities and will be encouraged to perform. These will include Lunchtime Concerts and other showcase events, as well as regular high-profile ISA festivals and other events.

Grade & Diploma Performance Music Examinations Service

ISA will offer teaching and administrative support for students taking lessons via the Instrumental & Vocal Programme. These will range across international boards such as Trinity College London and the ABRSM, Rock School as well as comparable national examination boards.

What Sets Us Apart

The Music Centre at ISA International Academy is designed to provide students with an unparalleled educational experience that combines rigorous academic training with specialised music education. Our programme is distinguished by several key features:

Holistic Music Education

We offer a comprehensive music curriculum that includes instrumental and vocal lessons, composition, music technology, music production, etc. Our students receive personalised guidance to develop their musical talents across a wide range of genres, from classical to contemporary.

International Perspective

Our faculty comprises experienced music educators from around the world, bringing diverse cultural and musical backgrounds to the classroom. This international exposure helps students broaden their horizons and understand the global context of music.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Students have access to premier music facilities, including professional recording studios, practice rooms, and performance venues. These resources support their learning and practice, enabling students to achieve excellence in their musical pursuits.

Personalised Learning Paths

Recognizing that each student is unique, we provide tailored learning plans that cater to individual strengths and aspirations. Whether students aim to become professional musicians or pursue music as a passion, our programme supports their journey.

Academic Excellence

In addition to music, our students follow a robust academic curriculum that prepares them for university entrance exams and future academic success. This balance ensures that they are well-rounded individuals with a strong foundation in both music and academics.

Performance Opportunities

Students have numerous opportunities to perform on and off campus, including concerts, competitions, and masterclasses. These experiences build their confidence and stage presence, preparing them for future music careers.

Faculty Introduction

Mark Stringer

Dean of Music Centre

Prior to joining ISA, Mark was Founding Vice Principal & Music Principal, The Yehudi Menuhin School Qingdao, sister school of The Menuhin School, UK, founded by the world-renowned virtuoso violinist, conductor, and international statesman. The School provides specialist training for the finest young Chinese students aspiring to work in the music profession.
From 2015-2022, Mark was Senior Executive & Director of Music at Wells Cathedral School, one of the world’s most eminent specialist music and choir schools; he was also Managing Director and Artistic Director of Cedars Hall, a major UK performance venue. Previously, he held senior posts, including Acting CEO and Executive Director, at Trinity College London. Mark was also an Adjunct Professor of Music at James Madison University, Virginia, USA and has lectured at the University of London. Mark has also taught music in primary and secondary schools in the state and private sectors in the UK. He has worked extensively worldwide as a music examiner and adjudicator.
Formerly a professional performing musician, for many years Mark was Master of the Music and Director of Concerts at The Royal Parish Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields in London’s Trafalgar Square, conducting and playing for numerous services and concerts involving members of the Royal Family and stars of stage, film, and TV. He regularly performed live and recorded TV/radio broadcasts for the BBC and a wide range of international media networks.
Mark studied at The Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester, gaining an Honors degree in Music and postgraduate study followed at The Institute of Education University of London. He also holds professional qualifications from the Royal College of Music, the Royal College of Organists and is a Fellow of Trinity College of Music (Masters equivalent). He is also an Honorary Fellow of Trinity College London, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and an Honorary Licentiate of Rock School.

Karena Wang

Coordinator of Music Centre

Master’s degree in composition, full scholarship winner, University of Mismiso-Kansas City, USA, under the study of Professor Chen Yi, Zhou Long, Paul Rudy, Yotam Haber.
Enrolled in the Piano Department and Composition Department of Wuhan Conservatory of Music from the Attached Middle School, won the first prize of the composition major and National Scholarship, and was selected into the first level of the National Top-notch Innovative Talent Training Programme.
She is responsible for teaching A-Level music, IGCSE Music, composition 1-2-1 class, and directing the academic portfolios of students majoring in music composition.

Sophia Levandis

Music Teacher

Graduated from Eastman School of Music in New York with a Master of Music in Performance and Literature. She also holds a Master of Arts in Ethnomusicology and Music Pedagogy from Aristotle University in Greece.
With 23 years of teaching experience and an active performing career, she is an expert in choir, band, orchestra, mixed ensembles, piano, general music, music theory and appreciation, song composing, instrumental and vocal coaching, ethnomusicology, music technology, and sound engineering. Her students have received offers from European and American Universities. She is also an elected member of the European School Radio administrative committee, coordinating a large network of schools on a common radio program, organizing song contests, and inspiring students with creativity and academic and artistic excellence.

Simon Zhang

Music Teacher

Simon Zhang graduated from the University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna in Austria, obtaining a Master of Arts in Orchestral Conducting. As a member of the Guangdong Musicians Association and Guangdong Piano Society, he serves as a professional judge for various national and international music competitions and grading examinations.
Simon possesses extensive musical teaching and performance experience, having collaborated with numerous renowned singers and musicians. He previously worked as a piano accompanist and instructor at the Vienna International Opera Academy, People’s College in Austria, and the Vocal and Opera Department of Xinghai Conservatory of Music. Currently, he serves as a piano teacher at ISA and conductor of the ISA Performing Arts Institute Orchestra, and is also the conductor of the ISA Liwan Concert Band.
His teaching style is flexible and engaging, adept at incorporating fun into education and providing targeted guidance for students of different levels. In 2014, he won First Prize in Orchestra Conducting at the 2nd HSYM International Music Competition in Italy, demonstrating his exceptional musical talent and professional expertise.

Alan Liu

Music Teacher

Graduated from the School of Arts of South China University of Technology with a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Performance. His major is trombone performance, and he has been studying trombone for 14 years.
He has extensive performance experience and has performed with various ensembles since a child (wind ensemble, symphony orchestra) and continued to do so until he graduated from the university. After graduating from university, he began to focus on orchestra management, orchestra formation, and instrumental education.

The Music Centre collaborates with leading music institutions and professionals to provide students with top-tier resources and opportunities. These partnerships ensure that students receive the highest quality of music education and have access to professional development platforms, preparing them for future success in the music world.