Head school & head harp
Ina Yoon GradDip MUS
Ina Yoon (Harpitina) is a multifaceted harpist, educator, author, and composer—a true "harp-entrepreneur" dedicated to redefining the instrument’s place in the modern world. Her journey with music began at age five on the piano, followed by a lifelong devotion to the harp starting at age fifteen.
With over a decade of classical training and a Graduate Diploma in Classical Performance from the University of Auckland, Ina has performed with premier orchestras and music groups across New Zealand and internationally, including notable appearances at the 2018 International Harp Competition and Festival in Seoul and New York International Competition 2nd Prize.
In 2017, Ina founded Harpitree NZ and her private teaching studio, Harpistina Studio, which evolved into the comprehensive Harpitree Music School in 2022. Today, her work is primarily focused on the education, developing Harpitree Method—a bespoke curriculum she developed to guide students from age four through to adulthood. Ina’s mission is simple yet profound: to strip away the "exclusive" stigma of the harp and ensure that its ethereal sound is accessible to anyone with a passion for music.
Senior cello tutor
Esther Lee
Esther Lee is an Auckland based cellist and dedicated teacher, known for her engaging and supportive approach as well as her strong professional background in performance.
She performs regularly as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral player, and works as a casual cellist with the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra.
Esther completed her Postgraduate Diploma in Music Performance with distinction at Te
Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington. There, she studied under Dr Inbal Megiddo, Professor of Cello at the New Zealand School of Music and a graduate of Yale University, one of the world’s most prestigious music institutions.
Under her guidance, Esther developed
a high level of artistry and technical excellence, serving as Principal Cellist of the university orchestra and performing at major events such as the Adam Chamber Music Festival.
Her musical journey began at the Pettman National Junior Academy, where she received early training from former Auckland cello professor Edith Salzmann. She has also participated in masterclasses with internationally renowned cellists, gaining a wide range of perspectives that continue to shape her teaching.
She is passionate about helping students build confidence, enjoy music, and achieve their personal goals, whether they are
complete beginners or more advanced players. Lessons are tailored to each student.
Pro violin tutor
Chisato Aida BMUS
Joining Harpitree at the beginning of 2026, Chisato brings a wealth of specialised expertise as a University of Auckland graduate in Classical Performance.
A qualified Suzuki violin tutor, she skillfully blends traditional methods with the Suzuki philosophy to create a patient, nurturing environment for students of all ages.
Chisato is particularly experienced in early childhood education, offering general musicianship for toddlers as young as 18 months and formal violin instruction starting at age 3.
Currently pursuing a Graduate Diploma in Teaching to further her commitment to music education, she is dedicated to fostering a lifelong passion for music in every student she reaches.
Violin & Piano tutor
Jay Jung BMUS (Final year)
Joining the team in 2025, Jay brings a unique, multidisciplinary approach to Harpitree as he simultaneously pursues a Bachelor of Music in Music Studies and a major in Mathematics at the University of Auckland.
An experienced and versatile educator, Jay is currently training to become a secondary school teacher in New Zealand, a goal reflected in his structured yet engaging teaching style.
He offers high-level instruction for piano students from beginner to advanced levels, as well as specialised tutoring for beginner to intermediate violinists, making him a vital asset to our growing musical community.
harp tutor
Silvia Man ABRSM G8
As a dedicated student of Ina since 2021, Silvia transitioned from a high-achieving student to a talented harp tutor at Harpitree.
Having reached ABRSM Grade 8 by the age of 14, she brings a fresh, relatable perspective to her teaching, specialising in young students and beginners.
Silvia’s performance background is already diverse, with notable appearances at the Auckland Christian Assembly and ACG Strathallan.
Currently advancing her expertise by studying the pedal harp under Ina’s mentorship, she possesses a deep understanding of the Harpitree teaching philosophy.
Her confidence and grace allow her to seamlessly pass on these foundational techniques, inspiring the next generation of harpists to find their own musical voice.