These coaches teach at top ranked spots and have great lesson fulfillment & student reviews.


I am a graduate of Bennington College where I received my BA in Literature, Creative Writing, and French. Currently, I am in pursuit of a MA from University of Michigan, studying poetry at the Helen Zell Writers' Program. A graduate of Interlochen Arts Academy, reading and writing has always been my passion and my chosen profession.



I am a Detroit Symphony Orchestra violinist and an experienced teacher for serious intermediate, advanced, and adult violinists. My strength is helping students solve specific technical and musical problems and build stronger performance ability. Lessons are goal-driven and based on real professional experience: we identify the target, diagnose the obstacles, and build a clear training strategy for auditions, competitions, exams, orchestral excerpts, and professional orchestra preparation.
"Hongyi first took time to carefully understand my background & goals. Then he evaluated my playing and came up with a multi-pronged approach to improve my technique and skills. This includes a slow vibrato exercise, a method to improve my relaxation during fast passages, detailed double stops work, a method to broaden my attention while playing in orchestra, and challenging sight-reading practice. He also helped me understand the intricacies of bow evaluation so that when I do buy a new bow, I’ll be making an informed decision. My vibrato has become much more controlled, allowing me to play a key passage much more beautifully. I’m beginning to embody relaxation in my playing, which has improved my sound quality & significantly increased my stamina during fast passages. And I’m starting to adopt key skills needed for successful orchestral playing. Hongyi’s analogies and stories during lessons have helped difficult concepts sink in so that my practice is effective. He shares his extensive real-world experience which helps me understand what is required and shift previously ingrained habits.