Meet The Team

Crystal Lin is the owner of Musical Minds Academy and an Advanced Specialist in Piano and Music Theory, certified by the Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM). She is also a BCRMTA-certified music teacher and holds an ARCT diploma in Piano Performance, along with a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioural Neuroscience from the University of British Columbia (UBC). Her unique blend of scientific insight and musical expertise forms the foundation of her engaging, results-driven approach to music education.
 

Crystal began her musical journey at the age of four and has since developed into a versatile musician, learning multiple instruments—including the viola—and competing in numerous piano and viola competitions. These early experiences sparked a lifelong passion for music and a deep commitment to teaching.
 

With her academic background in neuroscience, Crystal understands the profound impact of music on cognitive development, especially in young learners. She integrates research-backed principles with time-tested teaching methods to nurture both technical mastery and intellectual growth. Her lessons aim to develop not only musical excellence, but also critical thinking, discipline, and creativity—skills that serve students well beyond the studio.
 

Under her guidance, students at Crystal’s RCM Piano Studio have consistently achieved exceptional results in RCM examinations, earning top marks across all levels. Many have also distinguished themselves in local and national competitions and continued their musical studies at advanced levels. Crystal’s dedication to high-quality, individualized instruction ensures that every student builds a strong foundation and a lasting love for music.

Jinyi received a Bachelor's Degree in Music and Education from the University of Calgary, specializing in Elementary Music. She has 17 years of experience teaching piano and works as an elementary music teacher in a school district. 
 

Jinyi's teaching philosophy in music is to foster a love for music, making learning enjoyable, and encourage self-expression. She wants to create a positive and supportive environment where students can develop a genuine passion for music. Jinyi aims to inspire and engage them on their musical journey by nurturing their musical appreciation

Natalie is a passionate piano teacher with over 15 years of playing experience and a strong background in classical music. She has performed in renowned venues across Europe and shares her musical skills by playing regularly at a local hospice, bringing comfort to patients and their families through music. With a patient and encouraging teaching style, she aims to help each student build confidence, develop solid technique, and find joy in playing.
 

Natalie also has a strong academic background in neuroscience and microbiology from the University of British Columbia. In her free time, she enjoys walking her dogs and hiking. She is committed to creating a supportive and inspiring learning environment for students of all ages.

With over 26 years of piano experience and 12 years teaching students aged 5 to 70, Sonia is a dedicated and passionate piano instructor. A graduate of the Los Angeles College of Music with a Bachelor's in Piano Performance, she blends her expertise in classical and contemporary styles with a student-focused teaching approach.

​

Sonia tailors lessons to each student’s goals, fostering technical skills, creativity, and a love for music. Her positive and supportive environment encourages personal growth and a lifelong appreciation for music, whether mastering classical pieces or exploring modern styles.

Shenella Silva brings over 20 years of experience in piano and vocal performance, and has been teaching music for the past 8 years.
 

She is trained in the Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) curriculum, which has strengthened her theoretical foundation and structured approach to teaching. Shenella also holds a Bachelor's degree in English and History, which enhances her ability to teach with clarity, structure, and a goal-oriented mindset.
 

Her lessons seamlessly combine technical skills, music theory, ear training, sight reading, and performance—offering students a well-rounded and engaging musical journey.
 

Passionate about nurturing talent, Shenella finds joy in watching her students grow in skill and confidence. Her goal is to inspire a lifelong love for music in every student she teaches.

Diego Sanchez is a versatile pianist, vocalist, and passionate Music Educator, holding Bachelor's Degrees in Music Composition for Media (with Honourable Mention) and Contemporary Voice Singing from EMMAT, a Berklee Global Partner. With a background in composing and orchestrating for film, video games, and series, he brings a dynamic and creative approach to teaching.
 

Diego has extensive experience teaching piano and voice to students of all ages and levels. He tailors lessons to each student’s goals, blending the RCM curriculum with repertoire from classical, jazz, and Latin American genres. His lessons emphasize music theory, technique, and artistic expression in a supportive and inspiring environment.
 

Currently pursuing studies in Music & Technology at Douglas College, Diego integrates fresh, modern perspectives into his teaching. He believes music is both a discipline and a joyful art form — to study music, we must learn the rules. To create music, we must play with them and break them!

Michelle's passion for music began in childhood, achieving top levels at the China Conservatory of Music and the Chinese Musicians' Association by age 9. She excelled in national piano competitions and later studied at the Piano Department of Liaoning Normal University.

With nearly a decade of teaching experience, she specializes in piano and music theory, mentoring students to university admission and Level 10 RCM exams. She also serves as a piano accompanist for string instrument RCM exams. Michelle is beloved by her students for her humor, patience, and motivational teaching style, helping learners of all abilities reach their personal bests.

Tracy began her piano journey at the age of five and achieved her ATCL (Associate of the Trinity College London) Diploma at just 15. She later graduated with a Bachelor of Social Science from The Chinese University of Hong Kong and is currently pursuing a Music Diploma in Piano Performance at Douglas College, where she was awarded a Distinction Scholarship.

With extensive experience as both a performer and accompanist, Tracy brings depth and versatility to her music. She is also deeply committed to community service, having dedicated a full year to teaching piano voluntarily to children from underprivileged families in Hong Kong.

A dedicated and detail-oriented musician, Tracy excels in piano performance, music theory, and ear training. She is passionate about inspiring others through her teaching and performance, nurturing a love for music in every student she works with.

Felix and Junior are Crystal's cats, who are seven and two years old, respectively. They are very friendly and regularly visit the studio!