This entry is a tribute to my former Chinese Orchestra teacher and a very good friend of mine – Mr. Danny Chin (Chen Wen Hua Lao Shi)

The first time my brother, Roman joined the PPCHA Chinese Youth Orchestra, and bought his first Yamaha Recorder. I was curious what they were doing on that classroom and for the first time I saw this type of instrument. During my first year of high school, I didn’t have a second thought of joining your group rather joining the PPCHA glee club (which really I DON’T HAVE A TALENT IN SINGING!). I couldn’t hide my excitement and my eagerness to learn more about Orchestra and its music which I have a deep passion ever since I was a child. Thanks to my dad who had collections of LP records of classical music. I couldn’t hide my excitement to learn my brother’s Yamaha Recorder (yes!, it was passed to me).

I finally learned how to play the Recorder. 2nd year, I learned how to play Piannica. On my 3rd year, I was more excited that our orchestra finally had violins, violas, and cellos. My nightmare started when I studied violin. But I didn’t bother my nightmare because new learning is always fun. My 4th year was my hardest when I studied how to play Yang Qin (Chinese Dulcimer). I also learned how to play Gu Zheng (Chinese Harp), and Pipa. All these hardships have been cherished when I graduated from high school, and until now.

It is not only learning about musical instruments and valuing the “real music” but also learning discipline. Sir, you are perfectionist, and one thing I’ve learned – Having a perfect, and awesome performance is the product of having a good discipline.

Today in your birthday, I couldn’t wish for more. I couldn’t ask for more, but to thank God that He gave you to all of us. You are my teacher, mentor and most of all a very generous and kind friend. I don’t want to say repeatable wishes, but I want to say to take care of your health. Always be thankful and please continue to spread the words through music and keep on inspire us. Thank you so much. God Bless and HAPPY BIRTHDAY (Sheng Re Kuai Le)…. JIA YOU!