Truly a “One-man Band”
Bernard, a medical-turned-business graduate, started his flamenco music journey during his time at HKU, although he was questioned many times as to why he should bother with what some people might regard as a less popular music genre. “You have to truly believe in what you love, then just do it. Don’t be too concerned with what others want from you,”
said Bernard.
Struggling to juggle his time between being a part-time guitar teacher and a full-time sales and marketing employee, he finally threw caution to the wind and started the Bernard Music Workshop in Causeway Bay in 2012 to provide music lessons. “I came across Steve Jobs’ speech, which was highly publicised after his death, and it struck a chord in my heart. It was so true; don’t
waste time on something you don’t love. As I prefer guitar playing to office politics, I followed my heart knowing it will drive me to my destination.”
He first promoted his business by word of mouth, and then via Facebook. “My previous work experience is important to my music startup. It helps me to understand how crucial it is to have a strong market sense and promotional skills. Social media also provides a fairer and easier ground for entrepreneurs – especially someone like me, a one-man band.”
The resoluteness he developed while a resident of R C Lee Hall proved invaluable in helping him to cope with hardship. “I was lucky enough to start my business without too many difficulties, possibly because my business model is simple and small in
scale. So far, my business gives me not just a better income, but also happier life with enjoyable teaching experiences as well as
the opportunity to learn from my students. They are all unique and I have learnt to adjust my pedagogy
accordingly,” explained Bernard.
Apart from teaching music, Bernard followed his heart again for his next move. “I’m now a member of the band Opium and have begun performing at various events. I have picked up my old interest and made it income generating!”
www.facebook.com/bernardmusicworkshop
Bernard met his wife May Lam 林薇 (MBBS 2003) at a flamenco school party.