

Faculty
Meet Our Faculty
Get to know our dedicated music, art, and language teachers who inspire and educate our children every day.

Miss Su
Artist Violin Teacher
Mattina Su is an internationally trained violinist and composer known for her expressive sound, artistic depth, and cross-cultural creativity. A graduate of The Juilliard School, where she earned her Master of Music with the prestigious Queen Mother Scholarship, Mattina has performed on major stages including Carnegie Hall, Suntory Hall (Tokyo), and Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall and Avery Fisher Hall. She has served as concertmaster of the Tanglewood Music Center Orchestra, the University of Michigan Symphony Orchestra, and held principal roles at the Pacific Music Festival and Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra.
In addition to her classical performance career, Mattina is an award-nominated composer whose original works explore identity, society, and storytelling through sound. Her contributions to music have earned her three Golden Melody Award nominations and collaborations with artists such as JJ Lin, as well as serving as a jury member for the Golden Melody Awards in 2019 and 2020.
As a teacher, Mattina brings her artistic sensitivity and international experience into every lesson. She is dedicated to cultivating not only strong technique and musical discipline but also curiosity, creative confidence, and expressive freedom in her students. With a holistic and individualized approach, she guides young musicians to find their unique voice—on stage and beyond.
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Miss Andreeva
Artist Piano / Vocal Teacher
Svetlana Andreeva is a classically trained pianist and vocal instructor with over a decade of experience teaching and performing across Australia and New Zealand. With a deep-rooted commitment to musical excellence and education, she brings both technical mastery and artistic expression into every lesson.
Her students have consistently achieved outstanding results, with over 70% receiving High Distinction in AMEB, ABRSM, and Trinity exams. Svetlana is known for her thoughtful, student-centred approach—balancing structured progression with individual flexibility. She creates a supportive yet high-standard learning environment where students are encouraged to develop both skill and artistic voice.
In piano, she focuses on refined technique, tone, and phrasing; in vocal coaching, she emphasizes breath control, healthy vocal production, and storytelling through music. Her ability to nurture confidence and musicality makes her a trusted mentor for aspiring performers and dedicated learners alike. With warmth, precision, and passion, Svetlana inspires students to grow as expressive, well-rounded musicians.

Jim Hayden
Jazz Piano / Creative Music / HSC Music
Jim Hayden is a dynamic jazz pianist and music educator with over a decade of experience blending traditional musicianship with cutting-edge technology. With a deep foundation in jazz performance and a passion for innovation, Jim is known for his engaging teaching style, musical versatility, and ability to inspire creativity in students of all levels.
For 12 years, Jim served as Apple’s Music Technology Education Ambassador, leading the integration of music technology in classrooms across Australia and beyond. His teaching bridges the gap between classical theory and contemporary tools—offering instruction in piano performance, improvisation, composition, and digital production.
Jim has played a key role in shaping school music programs, conducting ensembles, and mentoring students through HSC music preparation and composition portfolios. His lessons are practical, expressive, and tailored to meet each student’s artistic goals.
As both a performer and educator, Jim empowers students to explore music with confidence—whether at the keyboard or behind the digital soundboard.
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Ms. Hindson
Artist Violin Teacher
Sarah Hindson believes in a holistic approach to teaching the violin. She hopes to instill a life long love of music and an appreciation for performance being a natural sharing of this expressive language. Sarah currently works full time for Captivate and teaches at Noble Academy on Saturdays.
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Ms. Kim
Artist Piano Teacher
Miss Hyun Jung Kim is a highly experienced music educator with over 22 years of teaching and academic leadership in Australia and overseas. She holds a Master of Music from the University of New South Wales and a Bachelor of Music Studies in Music Education from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.
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As a former Associate Professor and dedicated teacher, Hyun Jung has taught at universities and music institutions internationally, designing innovative programs and mentoring students of all ages. She is especially skilled in preparing students for AMEB examinations, where many have achieved excellent results under her guidance. Her teaching philosophy combines creativity, structure, and encouragement, helping students build strong technical foundations while gaining confidence and musical expression.
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At Noble Academy, Hyun Jung brings her wealth of international experience, passion for education, and commitment to student growth. She looks forward to nurturing each student’s potential, supporting their exam success, and inspiring a lifelong love of music.

Mr. Dragoi
Artist Violin and Viola Teacher
Tinel Dragoi is a virtuosic violinist and dedicated music educator with over 15 years of experience teaching in Australia and internationally. He has taught at the Central Coast Conservatorium of Music and works with students from beginners to advanced, with many achieving outstanding results in AMEB and ABRSM exams, auditions, and competitions. As a performer, Tinel is celebrated for his artistry and technical brilliance. He has played with leading orchestras including the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, Perth Symphony Orchestra, Cyprus Symphony Orchestra, and the Shanghai Nine Trees Philharmonic Orchestra, and has appeared as a soloist with numerous European ensembles.
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Tinel studied at the National Music University “Ciprian Porumbescu” in Bucharest, completing a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Violin Instrumental Expression, and was awarded scholarships to further refine his craft at the University of California, Berkeley, and the Yehudi Menuhin Music School in Lausanne.
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At Noble Academy, Tinel inspires students through a blend of technical training, creativity, and performance confidence, nurturing both musical excellence and a lifelong love of music.

Ms. Sung
Flute Teacher
Amy Sung is a passionate and accomplished flautist dedicated to inspiring students of all ages through music education. She holds a Bachelor of Music (Music Education) from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, majoring in Classical Flute Performance under the mentorship of Rosamund Plummer, former Sydney Symphony Orchestra flautist.
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Throughout her studies, Amy excelled as First Chair Flute in leading ensembles including the Sydney University Wind Orchestra, Sydney Conservatorium Flute Ensemble, Newcastle Arts Orchestra, and the Hunter Wind Ensemble. She was also awarded High Distinction in Flute for the AMEB CMus, showing her technical mastery and musical artistry.
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Amy brings extensive teaching experience across classroom and private settings, having worked with students from Kindergarten through Year 12 throughout Sydney and Hunter Valley. Her students have consistently achieved outstanding results, including Band 6 performances and Encore nominations in HSC Music. At Noble Academy, Amy is committed to helping students build solid technique, express their musicality with confidence, and enjoy the lifelong rewards of music.

Ms. Mitchell
Clarinet & Saxophone Teacher
With over a decade of experience as a clarinet and saxophone educator, Hayley Mitchell offers students a unique blend of world-class performance training and proven teaching expertise. She completed her studies at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music and the Royal Academy of Music in London, where she trained under Christopher Richards, Principal Clarinet of the London Symphony Orchestra.
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Hayley also holds a Master of Teaching (Primary) from the University of Sydney, giving her a strong understanding of child development, curriculum planning, and inclusive teaching practices. She has taught students of all ages and abilities, from beginners taking their first steps in music to advanced players preparing for AMEB exams, auditions, and ensemble performances.
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Her teaching experience includes work with Directions in Music, The Music Partnership, and Sydney Secondary College High School, where she has delivered individual lessons, run small wind section tutorials, and conducted larger wind ensembles. She also brings valuable classroom management skills from her role as a casual teacher for the Department of Education.

Ms. Zhang
Artist Art Teacher
Miss Yao Zhang is a distinguished artist and passionate educator at Noble Academy, known for her commitment to artistic excellence and her ability to inspire creativity in young learners. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Art Education from Capital Normal University, a Bachelor’s degree in Education from UTS, and both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Fine Arts from the University of New South Wales.
As the founder of Art Quality Studio and a member of several prominent Australian art galleries, Yao brings real-world artistic experience into the classroom. Her work, shaped by Australia’s multicultural landscape, explores themes of identity, adaptation, and the immigrant experience, often through expressive portraits, landscapes, and depictions of native flora and fauna. Her art is celebrated for its emotional resonance and cultural depth.
Yao’s students have achieved outstanding recognition in prestigious competitions such as the Young Archie Prize, Mosman Art Prize, and Waverley Youth Art Prize. Her dedication to nurturing both technique and imagination makes her an invaluable part of the Noble Academy community, where she continues to mentor and inspire the next generation of artists.

Ms. Whiteley (on leave)
Flute Teacher
Faith Whiteley is a passionate and accomplished flutist whose teaching is enriched by a wealth of professional performance experience across orchestral, operatic, and chamber music settings. She holds a Bachelor of Music (Honours) in Performance from the prestigious Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance in London, where she trained with leading artists and developed a deep commitment to musical excellence.
As a performer, Faith has held both principal and section positions in ensembles such as the Blackfriars Sinfonia, London City Orchestra, and Trinity Laban Symphony Orchestra, performing works by DvoÅ™ák, Berlioz, Beethoven, and Prokofiev. Her operatic experience includes playing flute and piccolo in Verdi’s Macbeth with the Uncovered Opera Company.
At Noble Academy, Faith brings her artistry and professionalism into the classroom, fostering a learning environment that is both inspiring and supportive. Her teaching emphasizes solid technique, expressive playing, and a strong understanding of musical structure, helping students find their unique voice on the instrument. Whether preparing for exams, auditions, or personal growth, Faith is dedicated to guiding each student with care, clarity, and passion.
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Ms.Naseri
Piano & Music Theory Teacher
Miss Leila Naseri is a passionate and accomplished piano and music theory educator, with nearly a decade of experience nurturing young musicians across Sydney. With formal training in both classical performance and music composition, she brings a rich, interdisciplinary approach to teaching that inspires creativity, discipline, and a deep appreciation for music.
Leila holds a Diploma in Classical Performance from the Academy of Music and Performing Arts (AMPA) and is completing her Bachelor of Music in Composition and Sound Production at the Australian Institute of Music (AIM). Her background as a composer and producer enhances her teaching with storytelling, sound design, and digital creativity — making her classes engaging and relevant to modern learners.
She has taught keyboard and music theory at Johnny Young Music School since 2015, developing strong foundational skills and performance confidence in students of all ages. Leila is known for her warm teaching style, attention to each student’s learning pace, and her ability to connect classical training with contemporary musical expression.
At Noble Academy, Miss Leila continues to inspire students not only to master the piano but also to understand the language and structure behind the music, cultivating well-rounded, confident young artists.

Mr. Yucel
Cello Teacher
Eray Yucel is an accomplished cellist and dedicated music educator with over a decade of performance and teaching experience. A graduate of a leading conservatorium in Turkey, he majored in Cello and also holds a Bachelor of Music Education.
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Eray’s career as a performer has taken him across Turkey and internationally, including appearances as a soloist and orchestral musician with the Istanbul State Symphony Orchestra. He has performed in chamber ensembles, presented solo recitals, and artistic collaborations that showcase his versatility and musical depth.
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As an educator, Eray is passionate about guiding students of all ages and skill levels — from beginners discovering the joy of the cello to advanced students preparing for AMEB exams, auditions, or conservatory entry. His holistic teaching philosophy integrates technical development, musical expression, sight-reading, and ensemble skills, ensuring each lesson is both structured and creatively engaging.
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In Sydney, Eray continues to perform in concerts, and professional recording projects, bringing his real-world musicianship into the classroom. His personalised approach nurtures each student’s unique musical voice, building strong technique, expressive playing, and a lasting love for music.

Ms. Lee
Piano Teacher
Kelly Lee is a passionate and committed piano teacher with a strong background in classical music and a heart for nurturing young learners. With years of experience teaching students aged 3 to 13, she brings both structure and sensitivity to her lessons, guiding each student with patience, encouragement, and clear direction.
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Kelly began studying piano at the age of four and holds the ABRSM Grade 8 Piano Certificate with Distinction. She understands firsthand the challenges and rewards of musical growth and uses that insight to help her students build solid foundations in technique, rhythm, and expression. Her teaching style emphasizes consistency, self-confidence, and the joy of music-making.
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Whether preparing for exams or learning for personal enjoyment, Kelly tailors her approach to suit each student's pace and personality. She believes that music is not only a skill but also a source of inspiration—and she is dedicated to helping every student unlock their potential at the piano.
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Ms. Kim
Piano Teacher
Miss Nari Kim is a passionate pianist and educator with nearly two decades of dedication to the piano. With a love for both classical and jazz repertoire, she brings versatility and depth to her teaching, inspiring students to explore music in creative and meaningful ways.
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Nari has performed internationally and in Korea, where she reached the finals of the Gimpo Philharmonic Piano Competition and won Gold Prize in the Baruechora Chamber Piano Competition. She has also performed as a featured artist at the Dobong-gu Book Festival, further enriching her performance experience.
Her academic and musical achievements include a Diploma in Piano Performance (ATCL) from Trinity College London. In addition, Nari holds an NDIS qualification, enabling her to provide inclusive and supportive music education for students of all abilities.
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Nari’s teaching style balances technical mastery with creativity. She places strong emphasis on solid foundation, musical understanding, and enjoyment, ensuring that every student not only makes progress but also develops a lifelong love of music.

Mr. Berduga
Cello Teacher
Sergio Berdugo is a Colombian-born cellist, educator, and passionate musician known for his technical expertise and expressive performances. His journey with music began at an early age, leading him to earn a Bachelor of Music in Cello Performance from the Industrial University of Santander. Throughout his career, Sergio has performed extensively as both a soloist and ensemble musician, bringing depth and artistry to every performance.
Sergio has been an integral part of symphonic orchestras, including his role as a cellist and section assistant with the Autonomous University of Bucaramanga Symphony Orchestra, where he played over 70 concerts in prestigious venues. His work with Contraste Music Group further solidified his versatility, as he performed at various events.
In addition to his performance career, Sergio has dedicated over a decade to teaching cello, piano, music theory, and musicianship. His experience includes instructing students of all ages in Colombia and Australia, tailoring his approach to each learner’s needs.
Sergio’s teaching philosophy combines traditional and modern methodologies, ensuring a structured yet engaging learning experience. His deep knowledge of orchestral and solo performance, coupled with his ability to mentor students in exam preparation and musical interpretation, makes him a valuable educator. Fluent in English and Spanish, he fosters an inclusive and supportive environment for his students from beginner to advanced players.

Ms. Kwok
Piano Teacher
With a rich musical background and a passion for teaching, Gigi Kwok brings years of experience in piano and singing instruction to Noble Academy. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music from The University of Hong Kong and is currently pursuing a Master of Creative Music Therapy at Western Sydney University. Her formal training includes Grade 8 Piano (ABRSM) and Collegial II in Piano (McGill Conservatory of Music, Canada).
Gigi has been a private piano instructor in Sydney since 2022, tailoring lessons to each student’s abilities and goals. Previously, she taught group and private piano classes at Parsons Music in Hong Kong, helping students build strong technique and confidence.
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Fluent in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin, Gigi connects with a diverse range of students, creating a supportive and inspiring learning environment. Whether teaching piano, singing, or incorporating music therapy techniques, she is dedicated to helping students discover their musical potential with patience and encouragement.
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Ms. Guo
Violin Teacher
Graciah Guo is a rising talent in the Australian classical music scene, celebrated for her technical brilliance, expressive artistry, and musical maturity beyond her years. She has performed as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral player at renowned venues including the Sydney Opera House, Town Hall, and Parliament House. A frequent Eisteddfod prizewinner, she holds the prestigious Licentiate in Music Australia (LMusA) with Distinction.
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With over six years of teaching experience, Graciah is dedicated to guiding students through every stage of their musical development—from young beginners to advanced players. Her teaching approach blends solid technical foundations with a focus on expression, creativity, and each student’s unique musical voice.
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In her lessons, Graciah fosters a positive and encouraging environment where students feel confident to explore, make mistakes, and grow. She emphasizes mindful practice, goal-setting, and curiosity—whether students are preparing for AMEB exams, school performances, or learning purely for the love of music. With patience, insight, and care, she helps students build lasting confidence, skill, and joy in their musical journey.

Ms. Shay
Mandarin Teacher
Ms. Shay Xie is a passionate and thoughtful Mandarin educator who brings a unique blend of academic rigor, cultural depth, and emotional insight to her teaching. With a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Renmin University of China and a Master’s degree in Engineering, Shay combines strong communication skills with analytical thinking—qualities that enrich her language instruction.
After relocating to Australia, Shay pursued further education in child development and pedagogy, earning a Certificate III in School-Based Education Support from TAFE NSW. She is also a certified Level-3 Psychological Counselor in China, equipping her to support students' emotional wellbeing alongside their academic growth.
At Noble Academy, Shay is known for her nurturing presence and innovative teaching methods that make Mandarin engaging and accessible for young learners. As the founder of Magic Chinese Club, she curates immersive learning experiences that celebrate Chinese language and culture. Her classes often incorporate storytelling, music, hands-on activities, and even cultural exchange elements like China study tours.
With a deep belief in learning through joy and connection, Shay inspires her students to develop a lifelong love for the Mandarin language and an appreciation for Chinese heritage.

Mr. Gan
Chess & Coding Teacher
Leo Gan (Lin Gan) is an accomplished chess & coding instructor at Noble Academy, combining his passion for chess with a strong academic background. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Information Systems at the University of Technology Sydney, Leo brings a deep understanding of mathematics, statistics, and strategic thinking to his teaching. With extensive experience in tutoring at the university level, he excels in helping students grasp complex concepts through a clear and engaging approach.
Leo’s education includes a Master’s degree in Mathematics and Statistics Modeling and a Bachelor’s degree in Statistics, both achieved with distinction. His expertise in fields such as Bayesian statistics, deep learning, and data analysis further enhances his teaching methodology, allowing him to incorporate logic, precision, and analytical thinking into his chess lessons.
As a chess instructor, Leo’s goal is to help students of all levels—whether beginners or advanced players—improve their game by mastering tactics, strategies, and chess theory. He focuses on fostering critical thinking, patience, and problem-solving skills, all while making chess an enjoyable and enriching experience.
