Christchurch
Saxophone Lessons | Clarinet Lessons | Artist development, Aural Lessons, Theory Lessons, Composition Lessons, Jazz Improvisation Lessons
Bio
I am an Ĺtautahi based musician and composer. I play at music festivals, concerts, stage shows and on recordings in New Zealand and abroad. My compositions include pieces for ensembles as well as electroacoustic works and sound design. I enjoy playing locally with Gypsy Jazz group Swing 42 and collaboration with exciting and innovative songwriters, improvisers, music producers, dancers, painters, actors, poets, sculptors and film makers.
I teach students of all ages and abilities, both privately and in institutions. From 2001 until 2004 I was an itinerant teacher in schools around Sydney and my teaching at the Ara Jazz School and UC music has included saxophone, clarinet, ear training, improvisation, composition and ensembles.
In 2015 I was awarded a Fulbright grant to take part in an international composers and musicians residency in New York. In 2014 I was awarded a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Canterbury. In 2000 I graduated from the Sydney Conservatorium with a Mus.B in jazz performance.
Teaching Info
At the core of playing a wind instrument are sound production and listening. I approach my teaching by focusing on learning by ear, embracing creativity and breathing correctly. Music theory and music reading eventually become useful skills to develop, especially for ensemble players.
Whether teaching beginners or advanced students, I take a holistic approach catering to individual needs in a fun and creative way, rather than working through a standardised syllabus. Most important is that my students’ enjoy music and are challenged in ways that assist and support their musical journey.
I teach from a home studio in Papanui but lessons at other locations are possible in some situations.