ABOUT
“I have always been a music educator at heart. Even during my performance training, I felt a deep pull toward sharing music’s joy and power with others—especially children who wouldn’t otherwise have the chance.”
– MONIQUE PONG
Monique Pong is a classically trained concert pianist who has become a music facilitator, entrepreneur, and philanthropist dedicated to making music education accessible to all, regardless of socio-economic background.
Coming from a grassroots family, she began her musical journey at the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, majoring in piano under Ms. Eva Lue and studying music pedagogy with Professor Eleanor Wong. After graduating, she continued her performance studies at the École Normale de Musique de Paris with Germaine Mounier. While teaching in Hong Kong, Monique witnessed firsthand how financial barriers excluded many people, especially children, from instrumental training. In response, she founded the Music Children Foundation in 2013 with her sister, Annike Pong. The Music Children Foundation provides free musical training to underprivileged families, demonstrating how music education can profoundly change lives. Monique has launched several initiatives under this foundation, including the U-box, a pilot programme that combines live music performance with a visual/sensory experience in 2019, and over 100 music workshops and appreciation programmes since 2013 aimed at connecting individuals of all ages with the transformative power of music.
In 2021, Monique received a full scholarship from the Lee Hysan Foundation to study at the Royal College of Music in London, where she pursued her Master’s in Music Education. Her studies inspired new creative and pedagogical pathways.
Over the past two years, Monique has opened new horizons, empowering music as a cohesive tool for bridging people from different musical backgrounds. Her Community Music Project and collaboration initiatives include inviting local musicians and international artists to bring more diversity and accessibility to connect with everyone.
Through these efforts, Monique has connected socio-economically diverse individuals with music education. Her programmes nurture mentorship (CPD), build confidence, and inspire joy in families who may otherwise never have held an instrument or experienced the fun of music..
Monique’s work is a powerful reminder that music is a universal powerhouse that connects us all. She has created a global community of musicians empowered by access, not privilege. Her efforts have not only provided musical education but have also fostered mentorship, built confidence, and inspired joy in countless children and teachers. Monique’s dedication to breaking down financial barriers and making music education accessible to everyone has had a profound impact, creating opportunities for children and adults who might otherwise have been excluded from the world of music. Her vision and initiatives continue to inspire and transform lives, demonstrating the incredible power of music to bring people together and create lifelong transformation.
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