Bridging Cultures Through Music: Mona Fasihi's Journey as a Teacher and Mentor

Mona Fasihi, an experienced music teacher, has spent over two decades sharing the magic of music with children, first in Iran and now in Vancouver. She believes music is a universal language that nurtures confidence, focus, and teamwork in young minds. Teaching music to children is both rewarding and challenging, and Mona’s journey reflects her passion for bridging two cultural worlds.

Majid Mahichi – Local Journalism Initiative

In Iran, where Mona began her career, music held a special place in education. Children’s music programs were robust, and families were deeply committed to their children’s progress. Most students came to her classes with a strong foundation, making it easier to build on their skills. In Vancouver, the situation is different. While schools provide high-quality instruments and resources, there is less emphasis on early music education, and many children must start from scratch.

In her Vancouver classrooms, Mona has witnessed how music sparks joy and curiosity. However, she often navigates the challenge of varying skill levels within the same class. Some children excel, having private lessons outside school, while others struggle, sometimes discouraged by the gap between their abilities and their peers. Despite this, Mona appreciates the support schools provide to music programs, offering instruments and spaces that create opportunities for young learners.

Mona believes the value of music education goes beyond creating musicians. It enriches children’s mental well-being, giving them a way to express themselves and build resilience. She encourages parents to support their children in exploring music, not as a career path, but as a way to develop creativity and confidence.

In her conversation with Mohammad Ahmadi, a volunteer host at Skyrise Media Society, Mona highlights the crucial role of music teachers. A passionate and skilled teacher can spark a lifelong love for music, while an unengaging one might deter interest. Mona has learned to blend the best of her Iranian teaching roots with her Vancouver experiences, creating a balanced approach to inspire her students.

Her story showcases the transformative power of music and its ability to connect people across cultures. For Mona, teaching music is not just about notes and rhythms; it’s about shaping minds and hearts, leaving a lasting impact on her students.