Vivian Shiao, a native of Taipei, Taiwan, discovered her deep passion for the piano at the remarkable age of three, igniting a lifelong journey of musical dedication. Recognized as a prodigy in her field, she swiftly garnered international recognition as a pianist, establishing close ties with the esteemed institution, Steinway & Sons. At the young age of 13, Vivian began sharing her musical expertise by offering private piano lessons to aspiring young musicians.
She pursued her undergraduate studies at the University of Kansas, where she received a full scholarship to pursue a B.A. in Piano Performance. Continuing her musical pursuits, she expanded her knowledge at the Musician’s Institute and attained her M.A. in Music Education from USC, supported by several prestigious scholarships. Vivian also enriched her education as a visiting scholar at Stanford University, and she holds a Higher Education Teaching Certificate from Harvard University.
With over twenty years of teaching experience, Vivian Shiao has worked with students ranging from beginner to advanced levels of piano education. She has been successful in coaching students in various major universities and music conservatories, imparting her knowledge and passion for music. Beyond her teaching commitments, Vivian travels internationally to conduct Masterclasses and educational workshops, sharing her expertise with aspiring musicians and music enthusiasts.
Vivian Shiao understands the significance of genuine enjoyment in piano education, drawing from her own experiences as a concert pianist and educator since her early years. Helping and consulting students and their parents are the greatest passions in her musical career, and she strives to foster a love for music and the piano in her students.
Vivian is actively involved in the music community and holds positions of leadership and recognition. She currently serves as the voice division chair and is on the board of directors of the MACOC (Musical Arts Center of Orange County). She is also an active member of various professional organizations, including MTNA (Music Teachers National Association), CAPMT (California Association of Professional Music Teachers), and ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music).
In 2015-2016, Vivian Shiao was honored as an inductee to the NAPW (National Association of Professional Women) Woman of the Year Circle. She was promoted as a Steinway Educational Partner in 2018 and accepted the position of CAPMT Pasadena Chapter Chair of Piano and Vocal Ensemble Auditions. In 2019, she was recognized as an honorary music educator of Steinway & Sons, and in 2022, she was selected as the recipient of the Steinway Top Teacher Award, further highlighting her exceptional contributions to the field of music education.