I'm a pianist, composer and music educator based in Rotorua, New Zealand.

I teach in local high schools, provide piano lessons from my studio in Springfield, and work as an accompanist for local choirs, singers and instrumentalists.

 

I studied classical piano and composition at the University of Auckland in the 1990s, where I graduated with a BMus(Hons, First Class) and was awarded the Hollinrake Memorial Scholarship, Bishop Music Scholarship and Senior Music Prize. Highlights during this time included a composition selected for the 17th Asian Composers League Festival in Thailand, winning major prizes in the University’s Lilburn Trust Composition Prize concerts, and a work performed by the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra.

 

 

Since that time, I have built a career combining teaching with my interests in piano and composition. My work has included roles as a Yamaha Music Teacher, classroom music teacher and Head of Department, as well as contract work for the Ministry of Education and NZQA. I have also developed online music courses to provide students with extra support in their learning.

 

 

As a teacher, I aim to make musical concepts clear, practical, and connected to real musical experience, helping students develop skills that support both performance and lifelong musical understanding.

 

 

Alongside teaching and performance work, I am currently the accompanist for Heights Tira Waiata (Western Heights High School Choir) and a Trustee of Orchestras Central. I regularly accompany students for examinations, competitions and performances, working with instrumentalists, singers and choirs across the region. Upcoming work includes serving as official pianist for Sing Aotearoa, along with ongoing collaborative work with schools and community ensembles.

 

For enquiries about teaching or accompaniment work, please get in touch.
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