Christchurch
Singing Lessons | Choirs | Aural Lessons, Theory Lessons, Conducting Lessons, NCEA Music Tutoring, Online Lessons
Bio
Robert is an experienced vocal teacher and music educator with a distinguished career in vocal training and choral work training young adolescent voices. With over four decades of leadership in education, he has focused on musical and academic excellence and student achievement.
Robert has extensive involvement with NZQA and MOE as a Moderator, Examiner, and Resource Writer, contributing to NCEA curriculum development and provider evaluation.
Holding advanced degrees in music and education leadership from the University of Canterbury, Robert combines educational leadership with a deep passion for creating quality musical opportunities for students. His achievements include the Vernon Griffiths Leadership Award (1998) and directing choirs that gained international recognition in Vienna (2007) and London (2012) and in the NZCF schools Big Sing national finales.
Dedicated, empathetic, and collaborative, Robert is known for fostering inclusive, high-performing learning communities where both staff and students thrive.
Teaching Info
Voice lessons are tailored to the student’s age, goals, and level of experience. Most lessons include:
Warm-Up and Vocal Exercises to develop physicality, breath support; Vocalises to improve breath support, resonance, tone, and pitch accuracy. Exercises designed to extend vocal range, increase flexibility, and establish healthy vocal habits.
Technical Focus Developing specific vocal skills such as diction, tone production, posture, articulation, or breath control. Work on vowel shaping, placement, and connection between registers (chest–head voice balance).
Repertoire Work Applying technical skills to songs or pieces suited to the student’s level and appropriate style/ interest level. There is a of focus on interpretation, phrasing, dynamics, and expression. Attention to storytelling and emotional connection with lyrics and music.
Musicianship and Performance Skills: This includes Sight-singing, aural skills, or stylistic awareness. Discussion of performance goals or preparation for assessments, auditions, or concerts.
Feedback and Practice Planning Constructive feedback on progress and clear goals for home practice. Guidance on how to practice safely and efficiently between lessons.
Each lesson is encouraging, focused, and collaborative, with the aim of helping the student build both technical control and expressive confidence.