Auckland
Saxophone Lessons | Clarinet Lessons, Flute Lessons, Keyboard Lessons | Artist development, Aural Lessons, Ensemble Coaching, Theory Lessons, Composition Lessons, Jazz Improvisation Lessons, NCEA Music Tutoring
Bio
Kia ora, I am a woodwind specialist, bandleader, and educator working out of Morningside, Auckland. I graduated from the University of Auckland with a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Performance in 2021, and was awarded a number of scholarships to complete my Honours degree in 2023, graduating in 2024.
I have been working regularly as a woodwind teacher since I was 17 years old, both privately and through a number of Auckland schools and private trusts. I have ample experience working with school-age students Year 5 and above, as well as at a tertiary level via working as a combo instructor for the University of Auckland. Currently I hold positions at Sacred Heart College, Glendowie College, and at a number of schools in Papatoetoe via the Tironui Music Trust.
Outside of my teaching work I perform regularly across the Auckland scene, and have had the privilege of collaborating with some incredible players both inside and outside New Zealand. Currently I am involved with neo-soul outfit Midnight Green, fusion quartet BADMAW, and R&B band Big Tasty – keep an eye out for us around town!
Teaching Info
As a teacher I have always encouraged student-led learning environments, and enjoy fostering curiosity and self-direction alongside a strong base of technical study. I have found much success in placing special emphasis on the student’s understanding of their instrument’s basic mechanics in place of the usual “first note” exercises, which usually allows them to access a large portion of their range from the very first lesson. Coupling this approach with aural training and contextual listening pushes students to develop a deeper understanding of their instruments and repertoire than traditional band methods would allow for. I am also a reasonably accomplished piano player, and often use piano as a tool for communicating concepts visually and aurally as well as verbally.