Cosmo School of Music Orchestra String Instrument Teachers

Afshin Effati

Cello Teacher, Violin Teacher, Viola Teacher

Afshin Effati is a multi-genre cellist, composer, and pedagogue. He prides himself on creative, interesting methods and ideas to keep students engaged in their studies.

He began his musical career with the violin in 2002. But after getting acquainted with the sound of the cello, he started to learn it. He continued learning the cello at an advanced level at The Royal Conservatory of Music of Toronto under the supervision of Andras Weber. In addition, he passed the music theory, solfege, and general piano courses. He was a member of the first and only baroque orchestra for six months in Iran, which finished its work with an official performance at the Cultural Institute of Austria. He also had an official performance of a cello/guitar duet with his brother, Ali Effati, at Tehran Artists House and a solo cello performance at the Cultural Institute of Austria. Composing and playing cello in Tim Crouch's “An Oak Tree” performed in Iranshahr Theatre, David Ives's “Sure Thing” Theatre and closing ceremony of the sixth Soureh Theatre Festival and passing the instructor course for Orff at Pars Academy are also in his artistic resume.

His special interest in the production of music for children resulted in a music album entitled Childhood Desires, which simplified some of his favourite rock/metal songs by rearranging them into pieces played on Orff instruments. He pushed this project forward and compiled the repertoire book Childish Minimals where he arranged some of the songs from the album so that young students could easily play and enjoy them. “Cello Riffing/Playing riff and rock music with the cello!” is his recent product whose goal is to show that we can do whatever we want with the instruments.

James (Kwun Yu) Hung

Violin Teacher

James (Kwun Yu) Hung started playing the violin at the age of nine. As a young violin player, he won multiple prizes in solo competitions including the Hong Kong School's Music Festival. He was also active in orchestral performances and competitions in his secondary school and university life. A decorated scholar, James was awarded the Associate Diploma (Recital in Violin) from Trinity College London. Before coming to Canada, James also taught students of all ages for close to a decade in Hong Kong. One of the things that makes James great is he personalizes lessons for learners of different ages, skill levels, and styles. He not only focuses on technical skills but also tries to cultivate a positive attitude toward playing and practicing the violin. Notably, one of his teaching approaches is the Suzuki method which emphasizes the reinforcement of skills intertwining with the joy and happiness of playing the violin.

Júlio Leite

Violin Teacher

Júlio Leite has a true passion for teaching music. A classical violinist with over 15 years instructing experience, he excels in assessing which criteria is the most important for each student to work on. Since every student has different experiences and relationships with their instrument, Júlio structures his educational techniques in a functional way. In his lessons, students are encouraged towards creativity instead of standardization. All while building a relationship with knowledge rather than just seeking momentary results.

Fion Leung

Violin Teacher

With over 10 years of teaching experience, Fion Leung is always trying to challenge herself and her students to have high expectations. She incorporates different techniques and humour into her lessons, so students continue to feel inspired.

Fion welcomes students of all ages, and is always excited yet grateful about the opportunity to meet and teach aspiring musicians.