Michelle Yang Gao

Born in Mainland, China, Michelle began playing the piano at the age of six. Demonstrating exceptional talent from a young age, she was admitted to the prestigious Tianjin Conservatory of Music, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Piano major.
Upon relocating to Canada, Michelle earned her master’s degree in Piano Performance from the University of Regina, studying under the guidance of distinguished mentors Dr. Robin Harrison and Dr. Christine Vanderkooy. During her studies, she was an active collaborator, performing with numerous instrumental artists, and was a featured pianist in a chamber music recording for a piano trio conducted U of R. At the same time, she began her teaching career, instructing piano and keyboard harmony at the university level.
After graduating, Michelle dedicated seven years to teaching piano at the Conservatory of Performing Arts at the University of Regina. She later moved to Calgary, where she established her own private studio. As a passionate and dedicated educator, she has guided her students to win numerous awards at festivals and competitions across Canada and North America.

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