From piano to pediatrics: How music supports one doctor’s well-being | OMA
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Aug. 11, 2026
From piano to pediatrics: How music supports one doctor’s well-being
Dr. Kim Zhou says playing piano helps her find balance and makes her a better physician
From caring for tiny babies to helping adolescents through their formative years, Dr. Kim Zhou says she enjoys the clinical care and leadership she provides as chief of pediatrics at North York General Hospital.
But that fulfilling role comes with a lot of stress.
To help her cope, Dr. Zhou turns to a creative outlet she’s had since the age of four: her piano.
The accomplished pianist says spending time with her kids and playing her favourite instrument helps her deal with stress while managing a demanding career.
“Wellness is still something I struggle with a lot,” she told the OMA. “I don’t think piano is a conventional wellness activity, but it works for me.”
Music as self-expression
Dr. Zhou recalls training meticulously to master the piano as a child.
Her dedication and countless hours of training led her to obtain the Associate Diploma of The Royal Conservatory of Music – the highest academic and professional standing awarded by the Canadian institution.
Beyond becoming a virtuoso, Dr. Zhou says the instrument has become a form of self-expression.
“I tend to be a little more introverted,” she said. “Having that communication with an instrument that seems to respond and understand you has been really meaningful for me.”
From piano to pediatrics
When considering what to pursue professionally, Dr. Zhou decided to pause music and focus on science, which ultimately led her to medicine.
During her residency, she did some training at North York General Hospital and returned in 2015 to join the pediatrics department. In 2024, she took on a leadership role as chief of pediatrics.
Dr. Zhou says she enjoys the daily clinical care she provides and the insight she’s gained about the health-care system.
“It’s been interesting to understand how a hospital actually works and all the complexities that go into keeping the lights on while doing the best we can within the system and with the pressures and re
There’s currently no piano in the pediatrics department at North York General, but Dr. Zhou says having one could be a beneficial addition for patients.
“Music can be so therapeutic,” she said
How piano helps her practice
Dr. Zhou says her time on the piano fluctuates because of her busy work schedule, but when she does have time to play, it’s restorative.
“I find when times are hard at work, music is a really positive outlet, whereas other times I may just be messing around with my kids and having fun,” she shared.
She adds that her piano skills have made her a better physician. She credits the instrument with teaching her perseverance and delayed gratification.
“The number of years of dedication and practice that it takes to reach proficiency – it’s not something you can get good at very quickly,” she said.
Dr. Zhou acknowledges that medicine can often feel all-consuming but that it’s necessary for physicians to find joy outside of work to support their well-being.
“Find whatever it is, whether it’s music or sports or video games, or even if it’s something you think is really embarrassing, as long as it works for you,” she said
Hear Dr. Zhou play
Watch this video of Dr. Zhou playing the piano and speaking about how music supports her well-being
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Published: Aug. 11, 2026 | Last updated: Aug. 11, 2026
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