Conversations with an Orchestra Teacher: Maggie Ma
After 15 years of teaching orchestra students in China, Maggie Ma decided it was time to make the move to the United States. Ma spent time in Chicago, Las Vegas and California before finding herself right here in Georgetown to further pursue her love for music and share her expertise with the orchestra students of East View High School (EVHS).
In China, Ma primarily worked with elementary and middle school-aged students, unlike in her new role at EVHS. But this transition was anything but intimidating for Ma.
“I really do not mind the change of age in my students, as I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to learn strings whenever they can,” Ma said. “I truly have a passion for teaching music to all.”
The Conversation
After spending the majority of your life in China, what pushed you to move to the US?
Ma: String instruments come from Europe, which meant I was in China learning western music. After so many years, I felt that I wanted to open my mind and immerse myself in different music cultures. So, in 2016, I decided to move to Chicago and work toward my Masters of Music Education from Vandercook College of Music.
When I graduated in 2020, I moved to Las Vegas where I participated in orchestra special guest teaching and master classes, before eventually moving to California with my family.
You spent most of your career in China working with younger students. What made you want to teach high school students?
Ma performing at The Performing Arts Concert Hall of Hong Kong Academy
Ma: Honestly, I really like a challenge. I wanted a fresh start with a totally different age group. So far, I already feel like I get more inspiration from my high school students. Because they are young adults, they are more open to telling me what they want to play, and they have so many big ideas and desires.
My hope is that my students and I are able to meet in the middle and really have open conversations, doing things that both they want to learn and I want to share. I can say that after my first full week, I already love my students…such talented musicians.
What has your time in Georgetown ISD been like so far? Scariest change?
Ma: I don’t really look at this move as scary, but as an exciting adventure. The language barrier was the hardest thing at first, but I have mostly felt very welcomed. It’s not so difficult for me here in Georgetown.
I remember when I first had my interview for this position. I felt so relaxed and comfortable with the people around me, and I just knew it was right. All of the fine arts staff at EVHS have been so helpful, making sure I have all the important information and am familiarized with the campus.
What is the biggest aspect of your career experience that you are bringing into this new role? Anything you are most excited to learn yourself?
Ma: Over the course of my career, I have had a few musical pieces published. That is something that really excited my students, and I think they have loved the idea of me bringing that into our classroom more. Ultimately, I want to be a bridge between our two cultures. I want my students and I to share our different backgrounds and music styles with each other.
Ma performing at the Art Institute of Chicago
Something that I am excited about is being exposed to different repertoire that I am not used to. In China, we focused on performing classical music. But when I came here, I realized that we perform pop, jazz, and so much more.
Looking to the future, what are your hopes and dreams for the program?
Ma: I really want to help my students reach a higher level musically and get them to a bigger stage with competitions and other performances. I want more people to see the talent of EVHS orchestra.
Truly, I just want to inspire my students and motivate them to learn music and grow. I want to give them a dream.
