NG SOK WAH
PERCUSSIONIST · MUSIC EDUCATOR
Exploring how rhythm, play and different ways of learning can help people grow.
About
I’m a percussionist and music educator with over two decades of experience in performance, teaching and programme development. Trained first as a pianist in Singapore and later in percussion at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, my work has taken me across orchestras, ensembles, classrooms and private studios.Over time, my work has grown into a deeper interest in how people learn—especially when conventional approaches do not quite fit. I bring together musical rigour, adaptable teaching and lived experience to create learning that is structured, encouraging and responsive to the individual.
DIFFERENT WAYS OF LEARNING
No two learners listen, process or respond in quite the same way. I believe meaningful music learning begins with trust, consistency and the flexibility to adapt.My approach combines clear structure with room to explore, helping each learner build skills, confidence and a lasting connection with music.
Credentials and education
BMus Studies — Sydney Conservatorium of Music
ALCM & LLCM (Pianoforte) — London College of Music
WSQ-Advanced Certificate in Learning and Performance (ACLP) — IAL/SUSS
Certificate of Achievement in Supporting Children with Attentional and Hyperactivity Issues — DAS/SUSS
Certificate in Understanding Dyslexia — DAS/SUSS
RECOGNITION
National Arts Council Overseas Bursary Recipient
National Arts Council Emerging Artist Grant
National Arts Council Artist Professional Development Grant
Music Mentors
Germaine Leong · Ngoh Kheng Seng · Daryl Pratt · Richard Miller
Performance
Performance has shaped who I am as a musician and educator, and it remains part of my professional identity even as my focus has shifted more toward teaching and programme development. I've worked with orchestras, ensembles and arts groups across a wide range of genres, from Western classical repertoire to ethnic and contemporary works. That grounding still informs how I teach, keeping technical training connected to real musical practice, listening and collaboration.
Education (Teaching & Facilitation)
I work with children, adults and fellow educators, adapting each learning experience to the people in the room.
Individual Learning — Personalised drums and percussion teaching responsive to each learner.
Group Learning — Ensemble and group-percussion experiences that develop listening, timing and collaboration.
Workshops & Team Building —Interactive rhythm experiences for schools, communities and organisations.
Professional Development — Training and assessment for preschool and music educators.
What learners and families say
Reflections from learners and families I’ve had the privilege of working with.
“You have been the most amazing teacher for Archie - providing him with great teaching, encouragement, and confidence. It has been a highlight of our AIS experience.”
- Rachel B., Parent
“My son has flourished with lessons from Sok Wah.
Her lessons strike the right balance between technical skill development and playing music he loves for fun. She thoughtfully recommends books, helps him identify and play beats from popular music and jazz, and goes above and beyond to support his learning.
Sok Wah organised a studio and assistance for my son’s drum exam recording, which we greatly appreciated. She also provides regular progress updates, which means a lot to us as parents. I highly recommend her as a drum teacher.”
- Sarah B., Parent
“Our son has really enjoyed his drum lessons with Sok Wah.”
He has learnt so much in a short time, and we were very impressed by his progress at the recital. Sok Wah keeps us updated with recordings and brief progress notes, which has been very helpful.
- Miriam R., Parent
“I have so far been learning the drums with Ms Sok Wah for nearly two years, and I am only here thanks to her undying patience and helpfulness. She has helped me along my entire drums journey, teaching me from the very beginning. I could not have got where I am without her, and I hope to learn much more with her in the future.”
- Cloe Prieto Garcia, Student
RHYFLOW
Over the years, one question has stayed with me:
How can music become something more people want to keep coming back to?
RhyFlow is a music-learning concept I'm currently developing and testing with children. It explores how rhythm, play and thoughtfully designed music experiences can make learning more engaging and accessible, including for children who may find it difficult to remain engaged in conventional music-learning environments. It's still early, and being shaped through real-world testing and feedback rather than assumptions.