Wellington
Piano Lessons | Keyboard Lessons | Artist development, Aural Lessons, Ensemble Coaching, Song Writing Workshops, Theory Lessons, Composition Lessons, Jazz Improvisation Lessons, Mixing and Mastering Lessons, NCEA Music Tutoring, Online Lessons
Bio
I am a professional pianist, teacher, and composer based in Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington. I have been playing the piano and composing for over two decades, have over a decade of teaching experience, and have been influenced by a multitude of genres and styles throughout my life.
Whilst living in Wellington I have performed at numerous local venues and been a part of the city’s bustling music scene as well as travelling to perform at multiple festivals around Aotearoa New Zealand. I have developed the skills necessary to adapt to a broad range of musical styles and to be able to play with people of differing approaches, backgrounds, and cultures.
As a queer person of an indigenous diaspora, I believe that diversity and adaptability plays a pivotal role in becoming a great musician. This is why I try to absorb as much as I can from those around me – musician or otherwise – and learn various forms of musical practices. These interactions greatly influence how I approach performing music, teaching a philosophy of music, and continue to shape my journey as not only a musician but a human being.
Alongside performance, I have a solid understanding and background of musical theory and composition. I compose my own music, both for personal use and as a member of various musical groups, as well as for artists and clients who show film work overseas. These compositions cover an extensive range of styles and I am just as comfortable writing for Hip-Hop groups and Jazz quartets as I am for Avant-garde noise projects and solo piano film scores.
Teaching Info
I am happy to teach anyone who is willing to listen, learn, and dedicate practice time to their instrument or towards honing their compositional craft. Whether you are enthusiastic about exams or just curious about experimenting creatively, students will have a huge say in what they learn and lessons will be constructed around your own particular interests and requirements. These lessons aim to be both engaging and informative while remaining fun and malleable; leaving students wanting to practice and allowing them to gain the most out of their musical tuition.
I hold great importance on fostering a genuine connection while building whanaungatanga with my students; helping them to find their musical voice in a safe, supportive environment. No matter what style of music students enjoy playing, writing, or listening to, we can draw inspiration from those interests and use it to help shape you as a musician.
Students will learn musical theory, aural and reading skills as well as proficiency on their instrument. My teaching style is diverse and contains important elements from both the Classical and Jazz disciplines. By combining technique and reading abilities with improvisation and theoretic understanding, students will have a good grasp on where they want to take their music. Students are encouraged to bring in any material that they wish to learn or look at; your time will not be wasted and I want you to receive the most out of my lessons as possible.