Halley Hsieh-Senior Instructor

• D.M. in Violin Performance; Indiana University Bloomington – Jacobs School of Music  

• M.M. in Violin Performance; Northwestern University – Bienen School of Music  

• B.M. in Music; National Taiwan Normal University  

Halley Hsieh is a doctoral candidate in Violin Performance at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, where she also serves as a Studio Assistant for the violin department. Recognized for her academic and artistic excellence, she is a recipient of the Graduate Tuition Award from the Jacobs School of Music.  

Her performance career is marked by numerous accolades, including 3rd Prize in the Northwestern University Violin Prize Competition, 2nd Prize in the NTNU Violin Concerto Competition, and 1st Prize in the National Music Competition for string quartet. She has performed as a member of the Aspen Philharmonic Orchestra at the Aspen Music Festival and has held leadership roles such as Principal Viola for the National Taiwan Normal University Symphony Orchestra.  

With over eight years of professional teaching experience, Halley has cultivated a diverse studio of students ranging from young beginners to advanced university-level players. Her background includes operating a private studio in Taipei, where she provided comprehensive instruction in both violin and viola.  

Teaching:

Halley’s teaching philosophy is centered on building a strong technical foundation while fostering musical expression in a supportive and encouraging environment. Influenced by Suzuki principles, she believes that every student can thrive with the right guidance and active listening.  

"I adapt my teaching to each student’s individual pace, personality, and goals. By combining creative methods to engage students with tailored technical exercises and etudes, I help each musician solve problems and refine their unique sound.

I encourage students to be active participants in their learning by selecting repertoire they are passionate about and maintaining practice journals to track challenges. This collaborative process ensures that our time in the classroom is focused on resolving specific difficulties and celebrating progress. My ultimate goal is to ensure that students find joy in their musical journey and to foster a studio environment where we all learn and grow together."