started playing piano at the age of 5. Having two older sisters who also were playing piano made her want to learn how to play the piano naturally. She grew up in a house filled with music.

She also started learning flute at the age of 10 and violin at the age of 13. After moving to the US, Ms. Kaori studied piano with Betty Woo at Holy Names University and Roger Woodward at San Francisco State University.

During that time she was introduced to Hispanic music which she got intrigued by and soon she fell in love with and determined to become the winner of the 2016 Michael Segrove Avalos Award.

Ms. Kaori also studied child development at City College of San Francisco and achieved a school-age care certificate. Having the knowledge of child development is making her able to approach each student differently based on individualities and learning needs.

She has been teaching for over 10 years. She loves working with young children and always makes sure to create fun and positive learning environments for students.

Ms. Kaori is fluent in Japanese and English.