Dr. Chang Lu
Dr. Chang Lu is a dedicated flute and piano instructor who helps children and young musicians build strong fundamentals, confidence, and a lifelong love of music. Based in Northern Virginia, she brings over a decade of teaching experience and a warm, student-centered approach that supports students at every stage—from beginners taking their first notes to advanced students preparing for auditions, competitions, and pre-professional programs.
Born into a family of musicians, Dr. Lu began piano at age four and flute at age nine. Having attended music-conservatory–affiliated schools throughout her childhood, she understands both the discipline required for musical excellence and the encouragement young students need to thrive. She began teaching private lessons at a young age and has since worked with hundreds of students across the U.S. and internationally.
Dr. Lu holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the USC Thornton School of Music, where she studied with Jim Walker (former principal flutist of the Los Angeles Philharmonic) and Gary Woodward (former principal flutist of the Los Angeles Opera). She also completed minor fields in music theory, orchestral conducting, and Baroque flute. Alongside her teaching career, she has performed professionally with numerous orchestras and has appeared on major Hollywood film and television soundtracks, including the Emmy-nominated Netflix series Chef’s Table.
As part of her teaching career, Dr. Lu served on faculty at the Orange County School of the Arts (OCSA), where she taught flute masterclasses, chamber music coaching, and advanced music theory. Working with highly motivated students, she guided them in developing musical independence, ensemble collaboration skills, and a deep understanding of repertoire and technique—experience that strongly informs her work with advanced and aspiring young musicians today.
What truly sets Dr. Lu apart is her ability to connect with students and families. Her lessons are carefully tailored to each child’s age, learning style, and goals. She emphasizes solid technique, musical understanding, and steady progress while fostering confidence, focus, and joy in music. Parents value her clear communication, thoughtful structure, and supportive learning environment.
Student Achievements Include:
- Appointment to first-chair positions in honor bands and school bands and orchestras
- Top prizes in prestigious competitions such as the American Protégé Woodwinds Competition (New York), Golden Classical Music Awards (Los Angeles), Southwestern Youth Music Festival (Los Angeles), and San Diego Flute Guild competitions
- Acceptance into leading music programs including San Francisco Conservatory of Music, Boston Conservatory at Berklee, UC San Diego, and Arizona State University School of Music
- Presidential awards, music scholarships, leadership recognition, and strong academic success supported by musical discipline and confidence
In addition to private teaching, Dr. Lu has served as Music Director and Conductor of the West Los Angeles Youth Symphony and Assistant Music Director at Sinai Akiba Academy. In 2019, she founded the Los Angeles Music Center, where she designs innovative programs and festivals that encourage creativity, collaboration, and cultural exchange among young musicians.
Dr. Lu believes that music education should be both rigorous and inspiring. She emphasizes solid technique, musical understanding, and expressive playing within a supportive environment that encourages curiosity, confidence, and long-term growth. Whether working with young beginners or adult learners, her goal is to help each student find their own voice through music.
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