Weisan’s love for singing inspired her to open her own music school in Hong Kong.
What’s your story?
I was a singer-songwriter and vocal teacher based in London for about 9 years before myself and my husband decided to opt for a change and adventure. With family roots in Hong Kong, we decided to move here, thinking we would test the waters for a year. One year of working full-time for a local singing school, I decided to go freelance. Before I knew it, I was opening up my own music school which I run with my husband, and now we’ve been in Hong Kong just over 6 years!
What excites you most about your industry?
I just love singing and music and being able to share this with people. The greatest privilege is being able to see students grow and be inspired.
What’s your connection to Asia?
My mum is from Hong Kong and my dad is from China. I was born and bred in Northern Ireland so you can call me a BBC kid 🙂
Favourite city in Asia for business and why?
I don’t know if I’m qualified to answer this question as I’ve only done business in Hong Kong. There are some challenges to starting a business here, mainly that rental is high and unpredictable. Having said that, Hong Kong is full of opportunity, and it’s people are open-minded and very keen to do business.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received?
I’ve received many bits of advice over the years but the best is to stay true and honest to your vision, no matter what.
Who inspires you?
This is a difficult question as I draw inspiration from so many people. It’s like me being asked what kind of music I like haha! People inspire me every day – from the hardworking old woman who collects the cardboard boxes to support herself to the lovely people who serve me when I buy my coffee. You can always find inspiration if you’re looking for it.
What have you just learnt recently that blew you away?
I was absolutely fascinated with the illusionist, Derren Brown, most recently on the Miracle show on Netflix.
If you had your time again, what would you do differently?
I would have invested more in soundproofing my rooms to make sure there was absolutely no chance of complaints from neighbours. Secondly, and I think is a problem that most businesses face, is competitive pricing. Being able to find the right balance of giving your customers a good price for the service as well as enough to move your business forward and re-invest.
How do you unwind?
I love being at home cooking, writing music and doing yoga.
Favourite Asian destination for relaxation? Why?
Chiangmai, Thailand is a great place, my husband and I love the relaxed atmosphere and mountain air. The people are lovely and welcoming, and the food is great.
Everyone in business should read this book:
Mindset by Carol Dweck
Shameless plug for your business:
If you’re looking for music lessons in a comfortable space, with a choice of local and international teachers, in a great location, either learning in a group or on your own, then we’re exactly what you’re looking for.
How can people connect with you?
Find us at www.aspiremusic.com.hk / [email protected]
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This interview is part of the ‘Callum Connect’ series of more than 500 interviews
Callum Laing is an entrepreneur and investor based in Singapore. He has previously started,
built and sold half a dozen businesses and is now a Partner at Unity-Group Private Equity and Co-Founder of The Marketing Group PLC. He is the author two best selling books ‘Progressive Partnerships’ and ‘Agglomerate’.
Connect with Callum here:
twitter.com/laingcallum
linkedin.com/in/callumlaing
Download free copies of his books here: www.callumlaing.com
