Renowned pianist Frederic Chiu performing at UCSI University’s 4th Piano Pedagogy Conference 2025.

Jazz pianist and educator Ted Rosenthal sharing his artistry at UCSI University’s 4th Piano Pedagogy Conference 2025.

Participants listening intently during a workshop session at UCSI University’s 4th Piano Pedagogy Conference 2025

KUALA LUMPUR: UCSI University recently hosted its fourth Piano Pedagogy Conference (PPC2025), themed “Teaching and Beyond: Sustaining Passion and Performance”, drawing educators, performers and scholars from Asia, the UK and the United States.

The three-day event examined core areas including pedagogy, innovative teaching and learning materials, performance practice, music technology and musician wellness.

This year’s keynote speakers were acclaimed artists Frederic Chiu and Ted Rosenthal, who shared insights on the future of piano teaching and the convergence of classical and jazz pedagogy.

More than a dozen workshops, lecture-recitals and paper sessions explored practical topics such as sustainable career strategies, the use of technology in music learning, body awareness for musicians and inclusive approaches for teaching students with diverse needs.

“UCSI University’s fourth Piano Pedagogy Conference is a platform for musicians and educators to exchange ideas, experiences and best practices.

The theme reflects the need to nurture not only learners, but also the educators who inspire them,” said UCSI vice-chancellor and president Prof Emeritus Datuk Dr Siti Hamisah Tapsir.

UCSI Institute of Music director Senior Prof Dr P’ng Tean Hwa added: “The conference aims to take a critical look at how we can learn from best practices and innovative ideas to sustain long and fruitful careers.”

Held biennially, the Piano Pedagogy Conference highlights Malaysia’s growing role in global music education.

PPC2025 not only fostered the exchange of expertise but also reaffirmed UCSI’s commitment to cultivating passion, creativity and resilience in the art of piano teaching.

UCSI is ranked 32nd in the world for performing arts in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, and its alumni include award-winning performers and composers who have made their mark locally and internationally.