Dan Hartig is the Music Coordinator at Canadian International School (CIS) in Singapore, where he leads the strategic development of K–12 music programmes, performances, and the Academy of Music.
Holding degrees in Jazz Performance from the University of the Arts and Music Education from Columbia University, Dan has more than a decade of experience teaching IB Music, developing innovative music programmes, and leading curriculum initiatives across the United States and Asia.
Beyond the classroom, Dan regularly collaborates with international schools, music organizations, and industry partners to expand opportunities for young musicians. He has presented at EduTech Asia and conferences through the Association of Music in International Schools (AMIS). This year, he is leading the AMIS Jazz Instrumental Workshop in London and presenting at their music educator conference in Tokyo.
A professional jazz guitarist and songwriter, Dan has performed internationally, including appearances at the NAMM Show in Los Angeles, and remains passionate about connecting performance, creativity, technology, and music education to prepare students for meaningful musical experiences in an increasingly global world.
Education and Credentials
Master of Arts in Music Education, Columbia University
Bachelor of Music in Jazz Guitar, University of the Arts
Columbia University Arthur Zankel Fellowship Recipient
Guitar Faculty Award, University of the Arts
New York State Music Teaching Certification (K-12)
Apple Certified Teacher
Professional Highlights
Workshop leader at international music education conferences
Over a decade of teaching and leading K-12 music programmes in international schools
Musician and Educator
Multi-instrumentalist (guitar, piano, ukulele, drums, electric bass)
Experienced performer and songwriter with a background in pop, jazz, and rock
Curriculum and Technology
Expertise in building IB music programmes and developing engaging K–12 scope and sequence
Skilled in integrating music technology and digital tools such as Logic Pro, GarageBand, Noteflight, Soundtrap, and BandLab for composition and performance
Strong advocate for student agency, creativity, and real-world musical application
Using modern technology and apps as tools for composition and sight reading, such as GarageBand, Noteflight, Soundtrap, and more
Leadership and Collaboration
Proven success supporting ensembles, leading jazz and rock bands, radio clubs, and school musicals
Dedicated to mentoring instructors, leading professional development sessions and collaborating across divisions to foster a unified music community
Current Focus
Expanding K–12 music performance opportunities, including cross-divisional and external showcases in Singapore and abroad
Designing student-led assessment models and authentic performance-based evaluation
Developing new initiatives for highly able and gifted music students
Long Term Vision
Strengthening transdisciplinary links through collaborative units and creative arts integration
Continuing to build partnerships with leading organisations and musicians to provide students with professional-level opportunities
Inspiring the next generation of young artists to create, perform, and express themselves through music
I had the pleasure of working with 80 students across two Jazz Skills Workshop groups during the 2025 AMIS Jazz Festival in Hong Kong. In addition, six students from our CIS Jazz Band took part in the festival — four in the workshops, one in the Honour Vocal Jazz Ensemble, and one in the Jazz Combo.
I had the pleasure of leading two sessions at the 2023 EDUtech Asia Conference at the Marina Bay Sands Expo in Singapore. My two session topics were:
Music Technology in Primary Classrooms: Using Tech as a tool in primary arts classes for self expression and transdisciplinary learning opportunities
Roundtable discussion - Empowering K-12 Learners for Self-Initiated Creativity