Careers in Classical Music: Workshop Presenter, Soon Kun Ming

When we think of a musician, we're probably imagining them performing onstage, or perhaps in a rehearsal, or teaching. But what do musicians do when they're not honing their instrumental prowess, putting it on display, or passing it on to the next generation of musicians? In this series, I find that out from musicians doing interesting things in the world of classical music. 

A few weeks ago, I got to go behind the scenes of a workshop presented by pianist Soon Kun Ming. With all the attendees opting to join online, I got the unique opportunity to observe the workshop from behind the cameras. For over an hour, I got to watch as he switched between speaking to the audience through a front-facing camera, while walking them through his presentation on his laptop, and performing segments of the pieces as part of the demonstration which was being recorded and streamed through his overhead camera. In addition to the three pedals on the Kawai grand piano he was presenting from, a fourth lay by the side - the device with which he could 'turn the page' on his iPad. Off-camera, a large suitcase is tucked into the corner - the various cameras, microphones, stands, and cables will all later be packed back into it, ready for transportation and setup at his next presentation. 

This was a lot to manage concurrently. 

This was also a typical day for him as a workshop presenter.

The front and top view as he presents his online workshop. 

Photo courtesy of Soon Kun Ming

A pianist with a Master of Arts in Music Performance from the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama, he has performed as a soloist and with various ensembles, and currently teaches in several well-known institutions in the Klang Valley, all while also managing and teaching in his own private studio.

A few years ago, as all in-person events ground to a halt, he took the time to add more to his many roles. He began experimenting with camera, microphone and lighting setups, software, and the various other details that make for a seamless online workshop. He hosted his very first online workshop three years ago, presenting on piano technique and repertoire interpretation. 

As in-person events and travel returned to normal, he expanded his workshop offerings to live and hybrid presentations in Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand. These workshops for music teachers have covered  topics such as improving aural skills, and guidance on teaching and performing exam repertoire. He has even put these complementary skills to use for the classical music community, assisting with managing the audio and visuals for events. 

"I believe that the most important part is the content and experiences that the presenter provides during the event," he shares. "I feel motivated after every session."

With these engagements in addition to his performing and teaching schedule, staying on top of time management and logistics have become his new focus - from preparing the workshop materials, to managing travel and accommodation, while also ensuring all camera and audio equipment arrive safely and can be set up to work seamlessly at the venue. His advice for managing all of these moving parts while creating valuable experiences for his audience: "Time organisation and time management are key from day one all the way up to the event to ensure it is precisely crafted and executed."

When he is not presenting, performing, or teaching, he enjoys gaming. Here he is performing To Zanarkand from Final Fantasy X, a perfect amalgamation of work and play.

 

Find out more about Kun Ming and his work on his Facebook page.