Meet Our Distinguished Faculty
At SDA Schools, we pride ourselves on offering an unparalleled learning experience led by a team of accomplished industry professionals, educators, and creative visionaries. Our faculty members bring decades of expertise, passion, and dedication to mentoring the next generation of artists, musicians, and filmmakers. Each instructor is committed to fostering an environment that nurtures creativity, encourages hands-on learning, and prepares students for successful careers.
Tara Song – Department of Film
Tara Song, a seasoned producer and artist, leads the SDA School of Film and Media Arts with over 20 years of industry experience. Known for her innovative storytelling and creative expertise, Tara has built a successful career in film and media, guiding students in the art of filmmaking, sound design, and production. She is dedicated to helping her students harness their artistic voice, perfect their technical skills, and break into the competitive entertainment industry. Tara’s mentorship goes beyond technical knowledge—she instills in her students the confidence and drive to realize their creative dreams.
Arnold Gao – Department of Music
Arnold Gao is an award-winning music producer and composer, with a specialization in both film and game music. As the head of SDA’s School of Music, Arnold shares his wealth of knowledge and passion for the craft, drawing from his extensive experience and multiple accolades from prestigious music festivals. He focuses on providing a strong foundation in music production, theory, and composition while helping students explore and refine their unique musical styles. Arnold’s instruction prepares aspiring musicians for diverse roles in the music industry, whether they aim to perform, produce, or compose.
Enna (Lily) Li – Department of Art
Enna Li, a professional illustrator and accomplished artist, leads the Department of Art at SDA School. With her deep understanding of visual storytelling and technical expertise, Enna teaches students the fundamentals of drawing, digital arts, and advanced illustration techniques. She designs courses that cover a broad range of skills, from traditional art foundations to cutting-edge digital tools, helping students develop portfolios that reflect their unique artistic vision. Enna is devoted to cultivating her students’ creativity and preparing them for successful careers in illustration, design, and other visual arts fields.