Catherine joined us as our pianist and choir accompanist in 2019. Prior to this, she has had a long history of musical training and accomplishments.

Catherine moved here from Taiwan at age 12 with her parents and younger brother. In Taiwan, her mother felt she had musical talent and sent her to audition for a school for talented children. She had been playing piano already from the early age of 5.

At this school, she was required to learn three instruments so besides piano, she was taught violin and another instrument called Er-hu.

In Canada, she attended Semiahmoo secondary school grades 8-12, but from age 12 was also attending the Vancouver Academy of Music — and then later, UBC School of Music. From there she received numerous scholarships and awards including first prize at the Canadian Music Competitions at age 13.

Catherine performed as a piano soloist at the 2010 Winter Olympics and also has performed with various symphonies and concerts in major venues in Vancouver.

Currently, she is a professional pianist who accompanies instrumentalists, singers, ballet performances as well as ballet lessons and exams. She also teaches piano and accompanies two other choirs besides our own.

Asked if she practices much, she replied, “Only if it is a particularly difficult selection.”

Does she get nervous before preforming? “Not really, as long as I have my music organized.”

In her personal life, she likes yoga and is a strong swimmer (60-80 laps!) She reads a lot, and enjoys occasional movies.

How did we get so lucky at NSUC? Another pianist mentioned to her we were seeking an accompanist. She applied and auditioned with Alison. We are fortunate indeed.

Something I found charming was that during Covid when we held Zoom services, Catherine made a point of dressing in her formal gowns when she played for us!