Natcha Techaaphonchai

Dr. Natcha Techaaphonchai (you can call her Risa) is a Thai music educator with a strong interest in teaching music for young children, older adults, and higher education. She currently serves at the Institute of Music Science and Engineering (IMSE), King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang (KMITL) as the Chair of the Bachelor of Creative Arts and Technology (CAT) program and Assistant Dean. In these roles, Risa has played a significant part in initiating curriculum development, quality assurance, and teaching innovation in higher education. As a musician, Risa has over ten years of experience playing the Khim and is also proficient in the Gu Zheng, a traditional Chinese instrument. Her performances therefore span both Thai and Chinese musical traditions. She has taught numerous students through private lessons and in early childhood music education, emphasising play-based learning, creativity, and cultural appreciation. For older adults, she advocates for music as a tool to promote lifelong learning, social interaction, and enhanced well-being. Risa believes that music is not only an art of sound but also a bridge to learning, connection, and cultural identity. Through her teaching, mentoring, and leadership in higher education, she continues to inspire students and colleagues both in Thailand and internationally.