Alicen Julia

Biography

Born and raised in Malaysia, I began piano lessons at the age of six, and worked through ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music) examinations, obtaining the highest level of grade eight by the age of twelve.

After earning a Bachelor of Arts degree, I began teaching in 1999 at The Music Gallery in Kansas City, and have enjoyed teaching and inspiring students of all ages and abilities ever since. I also taught private lessons on Military bases in San Antonio, Washington and Hawaii. I subsequently taught for Thelma Taylor in Honolulu and then at The David Hicken School of Music for pianist and composer David Hicken. I love the music of Bach, Mendelssohn, Brahms, Beethoven and Chopin.

One of my former students Andrew Morris is now an internationally- recognized organist who has won several major competitions. He was chosen to participate in the Canadian International Organ Competition (CIOC). He is featured on the CIOC website. In a recent email from his mother she wrote:

“We remember you well and all you did to help Andrew learn to sight read. It is probably his biggest asset today. He is also very good at phrasing.”

I am always proud of all my students and these moments make my job so amazing.

Having been trained in Classical Indian dance in Malaysia as well as Ballet and Classical Modern at the Conservatory of the University of Missouri in Kansas City, I have also taught dance at the Legacy School of the Arts in Kansas City.

When I am not teaching or playing the piano, I work on graphic design assignments and enjoy working on small projects for independently owned businesses.