Teacher Profile: Mimi Shyu

About Mimi Shyu

Mimi Shyu is a music teacher who teaches both violin and piano. She started learning piano at age four after showing a strong interest during her brother’s lessons. One day, she surprised everyone by pointing out a wrong note he played—just by listening. That’s when her family and his teacher realized she had a natural ear for music. Not long after, she began violin lessons using the Suzuki Method, which helped her develop strong listening skills that she still uses in her teaching today.

Mimi started playing the violin when she was six. At first, it was something her parents wanted, but by high school, she truly fell in love with it. She became the president of her school’s orchestra club and played as the principal second violinist in a local chamber music group. Even though she didn’t major in music in college, she performed often and explored new ways to connect music with her other passion—film. While studying Film and Media at UC Berkeley, she discovered sound design and foley work as a fun way to combine both interests.

As a teacher, Mimi believes learning music should be fun, encouraging, and based on each student’s needs. She especially loves teaching kids and helping them grow through music. In her lessons, she focuses on good posture, bow hold, and ear training, often recording songs during class so students can practice with them at home. Mimi is excited to work with LIYH because of its student concerts. She knows how nervous performing can be, and she wants to help students feel confident, prepared, and proud on stage.