Samantha Peng: A Passion for Music!

We are pleased to announce that Samantha Peng, Grade 12, achieved a spectacular result in her Music Theory course, which is offered by the Royal Conservatory of Music. Below is our recent interview with Samantha, where she spoke about her musical achievements and her plans for the future.

Linden: What was your mark and why is it considered such a big achievement? What does the music theory course cover? 

Samantha: Most students achieved an average mark of 79 in this course, and my final score ended up being 96. I am proud of my accomplishment because the exam is pretty difficult. This theory course covers music from the 19th century to the present. It requires knowing a fair amount about several composers who have made a significant impact in Western music. In addition, for each composer, you are also required to analyze one of their works.

Linden: Tell us a little bit about your plans to further study music.

Samantha: I am planning to complete my Associate of The Royal Conservatory (ARCT) certificate from the Royal Conservatory of Music. This credential will allow me to teach piano to other students. My plan is to pursue science studies at university, but I want to be able to pursue my passion for piano on the side as well.

Linden: What has inspired your love for the piano?

Samantha: Music makes me happy. I love the fact that I am able to convey a story, a message, or many different emotions through the cultivation of sound. I think music really touches the very essence of who you are as a person.  Whenever I play music, it inspires a reaction and a feeling. It is a really great way to calm down and relax if I ever feel stressed out. I also believe that playing music helps to develop a way of thinking that we would not necessarily use in our everyday lives.  

I really enjoy classical music. However, I also enjoy other genres. I am very lucky to be a part of the Linden Band, where I play the electric keyboard. It's a great club where we get to play songs of our choice. We can use any instruments we like, such as playing guitar, or simply singing. I always have so much fun with the Linden Band every week!

Linden: How do you balance academics with co-curricular activities such as music?

Samantha: I organize my day and allocate some time for practising piano and violin every day. Since it is something that I enjoy doing, I do not have too much trouble making time for it.