What do you teach at the Con?
ChiME (Childrens Music Education)
What is it that you love about teaching music – particularly at Wollongong Conservatorium?
I grew up in the Wollongong music community. I’ve been a lifelong member of the Wollongong Conservatorium of Music, I even did the ChiME program myself! Being able to give music back to the community that fostered my love of music is really special.
Please share a particular career highlight and why it’s special to you.
I love seeing music be a tool to help overcome barriers, whether it be social, language, or just plain nerves.
When I was teaching ChiME in schools, I watched a little girl who was on her third day of school and didn’t speak much/if any English. She absolutely lit up when she realized she could understand, participate and communicate with the class through doing a rhythm exercise, and that really hit home as to why my work is important.
What’s one piece of music that you’d recommend people listen to?
Anything you like! But really listen to it. Take note of how it makes you feel and try to figure out why… That’s the first step in any musical journey.
