About Dr. Siyu Tian

Dr. Siyu Tian is a music educator, pianist, and private piano teacher based in Wayland, Massachusetts. She holds a PhD in Music Education from the University of Alabama, as well as a master's degree from the University of Northern Colorado.

With experience teaching music in U.S. public schools, higher education, and private piano settings, Siyu brings both a strong educational background and practical teaching experience to her students. She has taught students across different ages and learning levels, from young children to adults, and has experience working with students with diverse musical backgrounds and learning needs.

As an educator, Siyu believes that every student has their own musical strengths, interests, and goals. Her lessons combine piano technique, music theory, musicianship, listening, and musical expression, helping students develop not only as pianists but as confident and independent musicians.

Siyu is also a professional pianist with experience in solo performance, collaboration, and accompaniment. Her background as both a performer and educator allows her to bring a well-rounded perspective to every lesson.

Publications

Siyu's research and writing focus on music education, piano pedagogy, and music teaching in diverse educational contexts.

  • Tian, S. (2023, May/June). The first year as a teaching assistant. Ala breve: The official publication of the Alabama Music Educators Association, 30-34.

    https://issuu.com/al_amea/docs/may_2023_alabreve?fr=xKAE9_zU1NQ

  • Tian, S. (2024) Harpsichord to piano: Embracing Scarlatti’s sonatas: A case study of Sonata K.380 in E Major. Piano Magazine, summer Vol.16, No.2

  • Tian, S. (2024). Perspectives of international teaching assistants on working in music disciplines in American higher education. International Journal of Music Education, 0(0).

    https://doi.org/10.1177/02557614241268168

  • Tian, S. (2026, February/March). The Flipped Classroom Model: Exploring flipped recorder classrooms in elementary general music. Ala breve: The official publication of the Alabama Music Educators Association. https://publuu.com/flip-book/956368/2337611/page/38

Professional Affiliations

  • International Society for Music Education

  • National Association for Music Education

  • Academic Journal Editor, Journal of Pedagogical Sociology and Psychology

  • Academic Journal Editor, Journal of Pedagogical Research