Student of the Week — Ha Phan
We are very proud to announce Ha Phan as this week’s Student of the Week!
“A little about me: although my parents are Chinese, I was born and raised in Vietnam. My Vietnamese name is Ha Phan, and my Chinese name is Meixia Pan. When I got older, I moved to France to pursue my studies and after getting married, I moved to the United States where I began a new chapter of my life. I initially worked as a computer programmer, but eventually realized that my true calling was in education. I changed careers and became a teacher, earning teaching certifications in Computers and French. I have also been blessed with three children and two grandchildren, who bring me great joy. Family has always been an important part of my life.
“Music has been one of my lifelong passions, and I have loved singing and playing the piano since childhood. Now, at the age of 70, my dream of making music is finally coming true!
“One day, while watching a Chinese television drama, I saw an advertisement for Ridley Academy. I was so excited that I immediately enrolled in the Masterclass Program. Stephen Ridley, an internationally renowned pianist and the founder of Ridley Academy, truly inspired me through his lessons and videos. I discovered that his teaching methods were clear, engaging, and easy to understand. To my surprise and delight, I was able to learn much faster than I had expected. I was equally impressed by the academy’s knowledgeable, supportive, and friendly team.
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“After just one month, I decided to take the next step and enrolled in the Mentorship Program. I was fortunate to be paired with Dan McMurrough, an experienced piano coach who has been incredibly knowledgeable, patient, encouraging, and helpful throughout my musical journey. With Stephen’s inspiring teaching and Dan’s dedicated guidance, I have made great progress. In a way, I feel that I have gone “from zero to hero!” I never imagined that, at the age of 70, I would be able to accompany myself on the piano while singing my favorite songs. This experience has taught me that it is never too late to pursue a dream.
“Although I face significant health challenges and an uncertain future, music can bring tremendous emotional comfort and improve quality of life, especially during difficult times. I do not know what the future holds, but I want to make the most of every day I am given. Learning the piano and singing my favorite songs give me something beautiful to look forward to each day.
“At 70, my musical journey is just beginning. My greatest wish is to continue learning, singing, and playing the piano for my husband, children, grandchildren, and everyone who enjoys my music. To me, music is an expression of love, a celebration of life, and a reminder that dreams can come true at any age.
“With a grateful heart, I look forward to continuing this beautiful journey, one song and one note at a time. I am deeply grateful to Stephen Ridley, Dan McMurrough, and the Ridley Academy team for helping me rediscover my passion and pursue a lifelong dream.”
— Ha Phan, Ridley Academy Student of the Week 23 October, 2026
