Xiaoyan Su

Sue Su – Guzheng Artist & Global Educator

Welcome to my guzheng classroom. To me, the guzheng is more than just an instrument – it is a bridge that connects different cultures and hearts.

I am an international guzheng performer, a Top 100 Inheritor of Chinese Intangible Cultural Heritage, and a Senior Advisor to the Swiss-China Cultural Alliance. My teaching system is built upon three authoritative credentials: the UNESCO Living Heritage Education Certificate, the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) Certification for Intercultural Dialogue Teaching, and the Senior Guzheng Teacher Qualification from the China Conservatory of Music. These are not just certificates on the wall – they are your assurance of quality learning, meaning you will grow within a system that aligns with international educational standards.

My students are spread across 36+ countries on five continents. Through my guidance, they have performed at embassies, consulates, and international stages, using the guzheng as a bridge to connect with 48 countries.

By learning the guzheng with me, you are not just learning an instrument – you are entering a global cultural network.

🎼 What will you gain from me?

① A globally proven teaching methodology

I have hosted and directed hundreds of international cultural exchange events. These experiences have given me a deep understanding that students from different cultural backgrounds need different approaches. Whether you are a complete beginner adult, a child looking to develop interest, or an advanced player seeking to refine your skills, I will tailor a learning plan just for you.

② In-depth courses that balance technique and culture

The guzheng is not just about finger exercises – behind every piece lies history, poetry, and human stories. I not only teach you how to play, but also help you understand why you play it that way. When you play High Mountains and Flowing Water, you are not just playing notes – you are evoking the bond of kindred spirits from three thousand years ago. When you play Fishing Boat at Sunset, you are not just playing a melody – you are capturing the tranquility and poetry of the Jiangnan water towns.

③ Multilingual instruction for seamless communication

I offer lessons in Chinese, English, and Cantonese, so no matter where you come from, you can find the learning rhythm that suits you best.

④ An intercultural perspective

If you are interested in using the guzheng to interpret Western classics or world music, we can explore that together – making the guzheng your cultural passport.

🌟 How far can you go with me?

Under my guidance, my students have already achieved remarkable results:

• Multiple students have won Outstanding Gold Awards and Gold Awards in international guzheng competitions.

• Outstanding students have been named overseas youth guzheng representatives globally.

• From absolute beginners to international stage performers, every student has found their own voice in the guzheng.

🎯 Who is this for?

• Children and teenagers aged 5 and above – cultivate focus and aesthetic appreciation, adding value to their future.

• Adults with zero prior experience – no musical background needed; we start from the very basics and guide you step by step.

• Advanced players seeking improvement – one-on-one coaching to break through plateaus and move toward professionalism.

📝 Course Information

• Format: One-on-one online lessons

• Languages: Chinese, English, Cantonese

• Trial lesson: You are welcome to book a trial session so we can find the learning approach that works best for you.

I look forward to meeting you in class, and to making the guzheng your language for connecting with the world.

“The guzheng has twenty-one strings, and each string is a cultural thread. If I can pluck them into a song, that song is called human civilization.”
— Sue Su (Xiaoyan Su)

My Teaching Style: Where Technique Meets Cultural Understanding

My teaching philosophy is simple: you are not just learning an instrument—you are entering a global cultural network.

As an educator whose students span 36+ countries across five continents, I have developed a teaching approach that adapts to each learner's unique background, goals, and learning style. Whether you are a complete beginner, a parent seeking cultural enrichment for your child, or an advanced player aiming for the international stage, I tailor every lesson to where you are and where you want to go.

What sets my teaching apart:

A Globally-Validated Method. My teaching is built on UNESCO Living Heritage Education Course certification and IBO Intercultural Dialogue Teaching certification—international credentials that ensure your learning is aligned with global educational standards. This isn't just about playing notes; it's about developing cultural literacy, critical thinking, and global awareness through music.

Technique and Storytelling, Side by Side. I don't just teach you how to play—I guide you to understand why each piece carries the emotions it does. When you learn High Mountains and Flowing Water, you are not just memorizing notes; you are stepping into a 3,000-year-old story of friendship and connection. When you play Fisherman's Song at Eventide, you are hearing the tranquility of a Jiangnan river at sunset. Music becomes meaningful when you understand the world behind it.

Cross-Cultural Exploration. If you are curious about adapting Western classics or world music to the Guzheng, we can explore that together. I have performed at over 40 embassies and consulates and led students onto international stages across five continents—these experiences have taught me how music transcends borders and speaks a universal language.

A Pathway to the World Stage. My students have won Outstanding Gold and Gold awards in international Guzheng competitions and have been recognized as Global Youth Guzheng Representatives. Many have gone from zero experience to performing on international stages. For those who aspire to perform internationally, I offer guidance and opportunities to connect with diplomatic and cultural events.

Lessons in Your Language. I teach in Chinese, English, and Cantonese, ensuring clear communication and a comfortable learning environment.

My commitment to you: Every student receives a personalized learning path—whether you are a young beginner building focus and discipline, an adult learner discovering a new passion, or an advanced player refining your artistry. I am here to guide you, step by step, from your first note to your first standing ovation.

"The Guzheng has twenty-one strings, and each one is a thread of culture. If I can pluck them into a song, that song shall be called Human Civilization." — Sue Su