Catherine Shieh has over 25 years of experience working with children and adults to create an inspiring musical experience and achieve their musical potential. In every encounter with her students, she strives to make a connection with them and broaden their musical horizon. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Manhattan School of Music, and a Master’s degree from Aaron Copeland School of Music, Queens College (CUNY). She also attended the doctoral program in Music Education at Teachers College Columbia University, where she did research on effective music practicing.
Catherine has performed with Summit Symphony, Plainfield Symphony, and Manhattan School of Music Preparatory Division Orchestra. In addition, she performed in masterclasses for Pinchas Zuckerman and Eugene Istomin. Her performances have taken her to Alice Tully Hall, Lincoln Center, Donnell Library in New York City, and Nicholas Music Center at Rutgers University. She studied piano with Dr. Solomon Minkowski, Morey Ritt, and chamber music with Daniel Phillips (Orion Quartet). She also worked extensively with Mareline Bruner, author of “The Art of Practicing,” focusing on technique and incorporating the philosophy of mindfulness into her piano practice and performance. She is the recipient of Y.F. and L.C.C. Wu Fellowship from Weatherhead East Asian Institute at Columbia University, “Senior Chamber Music Life” Award from Division of the Arts and the Humanities at Queens College, and Cecilia Music Award for Excellence in Teaching. Her students have participated in auditions held by NJMTA, SMEA, and performed at Lincoln Center and the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts as competition winners.