Music Education services
Specialising in Piano, Music Theory and Composition
Music Education services
Specialising in Piano, Music Theory and Composition
Kia ora!
I'm Kathryn.
I'm a New Zealand music educator dedicated to helping students become capable, creative musicians.
Based in Rotorua, I teach piano and music theory in local High Schools and from my home studio in Springfield.
I focus on helping students build strong musical foundations while also encouraging curiousity, exploration and creative development. Learn more here.
Kia ora!
I'm Kathryn.
I'm a New Zealand music educator dedicated to helping students become capable, creative musicians.
Based in Rotorua, I teach piano and music theory in local High Schools and from my home studio in Springfield. I focus on helping students build strong musical foundations while also encouraging curiosity, exploration, and creative development. Learn more here.
PIANO LESSONS IN ROTORUA
Expert individual piano tuition for Rotorua locals — perfect for beginners or players ready to advance their skills.
Piano Lessons in Rotorua
Expert individual piano tuition for Rotorua locals - perfect for beginners or players ready to advance their skills
Theory courses
Learn music theory in a supportive, small group setting. Online and for adult students.
Theory courses
Learn music theory in a supportive, small group setting. Online and for adult students.
NCEA MUSIC support
Online courses providing extra help for NZ students studying piano or harmony for NCEA.
NCEA MUSIC SUPPORT
Online courses providing extra help for NZ students studying piano or harmony for NCEA.
Insights and ideas
How to Start Playing Piano Again After Years Away
Many adult students return to learning piano after years away from playing, as a break from work or as a pursuit that will keep their mind active going into their older years. At the piano, you can find a space where you are able to focus entirely on music, away from emails, deadlines, and schedules.…
Read MoreGetting started on a composition
Getting started on a composition assignment is much easier if you’ve already got an idea that you want to write about. Having a reason to write a piece of music helps you set up the mood of your piece right from the start, ensures that you have something to communicate in your music and can…
Read MoreWhy you should work on your scales
Learning to play your scales and arpeggios really well will help you develop as a pianist and as a musician. When you play scales, you’re strengthening your fingers, the coordination between your hands and preparing yourself for scale passages which occur in a lot of music. You can also use your scale practice to…
Read MoreHow we’re using Noteflight
Noteflight is an online tool that you can use to write and playback music over the internet. It’s reasonably priced and is a great tool for music students. It’s possible for music teachers to set up a safe space on Noteflight where their students can share music and access online resources. This year, I’ve started…
Read MoreHow to Introduce a Performance on Stage (With Sample Script)
These days, when you attend a concert, it is quite common for performers to engage with the audience. If you’re wondering how to introduce a performance on stage, this post will guide you through preparing a short, engaging introduction that helps your audience understand both you and your music. When you’re preparing your introduction,…
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"I worked alongside Kathryn Lauder for three years, and have found her to be a truly outstanding teacher. As a teacher of many years’ experience in a variety of schools myself, I have seldom worked with a person as gifted or as dedicated as Kathryn. She is one of those rare people who is extremely talented, both as a performing musician and as a composer, who also has the ability to inspire students, and the patience and dedication to help them achieve amazing things."
Trina Sellers
"We really appreciate Kathryn's wonderful piano teaching and her care and love for kids beyond just piano. Chloe is super lucky to have her as her piano teacher!"
Clare Slater
Parent
Learning music is easier—and progress comes faster—when you’re not doing it on your own. Whether you're just beginning, wanting to strengthen your skills, or preparing for an assessment, I offer guidance, structure, and support to help you move forward with confidence.