
“The guitar is a miniature orchestra in itself."
― Ludwig van Beethoven ―
Explore the world of guitar
with Dr. François Koh, an experienced orchestral conductor and skilled classical guitarist. Dr. Koh's teaching philosophy is to help students reach their full potential by applying various musical approaches.
Who Can Join
North York Guitar Studio provides structured and comprehensive classical guitar instruction for individuals committed to musical excellence. Dr. Koh specializes in training students for RCM examinations and Arts School/University preparation, offering programs tailored to technical development, repertoire, and performance skills. Prospective students are encouraged to schedule a trial lesson to discuss their musical goals and determine the most appropriate course of study.
Why Choose These Lessons
1. Holistic Approach:
Benefit from a curriculum that covers various music styles, providing a well-rounded musical education.
2. Well-Organized Curriculum:
The curriculum covers essential aspects of classical guitar playing, from foundational techniques to advanced skills. Dr. Koh provides structured guidance, personalized feedback, and clear learning milestones to ensure steady progress and mastery of repertoire.
3. Performance Opportunities:
Every three months, there is a 5-minute concert with parents or friends at the end of the lesson.
What You'll Learn
1. Classical Mastery:
Develop precise left- and right-hand techniques, refine musical expression, and build mastery of the classical guitar repertoire.
2. Build Advanced Repertoire:
Prepare challenging pieces from Baroque to contemporary, tailored for RCM exams or Arts school/University auditions.
3.Excel in Exams & Auditions:
Gain comprehensive preparation in performance, sight-reading, ear training, stage etiquette, interview skills, and presentation to confidently succeed in formal evaluations

Dr. François Koh
Dr. François Koh, an RCM Gold Medal Teacher, is an experienced guitar instructor, music ensemble coach, conductor, and mentor. He has taught guitar, music theory, and harmony over 25 years. His rich musical experience in Korea, France, and Canada enables him to teach guitar and offer a solid musical foundation, such as French solfege and aural skills, to his students. While in France, he was a guitar Instructor at St. Cyr Ecole de Musique in Paris. In 2009, he was the adjudicator of the plucked string parts at the Coast Music Festival in British Columbia. Many of his students have successfully completed Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) exams with Silver Medals and university auditions, including McGill University and Berklee College of Music.
Dr. Koh is also interested in cognitive science research related to music education. During his doctoral studies at the University of Toronto, he actively participated in the "Music and the Brain" seminar to learn how music can rehabilitate a human's body and mind. His teaching philosophy is to help students reach their full potential by applying various musical approaches.
“He's calm, extremely knowledgeable in many styles and a true scholar of the guitar. You're fortunate if you have the opportunity to retain his services."
-Scott Ingram-
“Dr. Koh has excellent clinical skills and patience that lead me without pressure or stress."
-Sophia Cho-
“You will be guaranteed to start on an exciting musical journey with Francois."
“A good diagnostician and clinician and has the wisdom and knowledge in helping students overcome technical barriers in guitar playing.
-Ken Lee-
Contact
Hours
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Closed
10 AM - 7 PM
10 AM - 7 PM
10 AM - 7 PM
10 AM - 7 PM
Closed
Closed

