Life before Girton
I completed a Bachelor of Arts in Music Classical Guitar at the Victorian College of the Arts, a Graduate Diploma in Music Performance (Classical Guitar) studying with Timothy Kain at Australian National University and a Diploma in Education at La Trobe University. I studied cello with Mei-Lee Stocker in Brisbane and have taught instrumental music in schools in Melbourne (Sacre Couer, Ruyton, Council for Adult Education, Monash University Arts and Crafts Centre), Canberra (St Claire’s College, Majura Primary, Campbell High School) and Brisbane (Mt St Michael’s College, All Hallows’ School, Loreto College). I also love singing and have sung with the Melbourne Symphonic Chorus, Tanglewood Festival Chorus (USA) and Harvard Radcliffe Choral Society (USA).
What I Love about Teaching
Through teaching music I hope to instil a love of music in my students and the skills to participate in music making with others. Music has brought me great pleasure throughout my life and given me many wonderful opportunities and experiences through both playing and appreciation.
What is the best thing about teaching at Girton?
I love the variety in teaching students across the P-12 range and the enthusiasm and attitude of the staff and students.
What do you like best about the subject/s you teach?
Music is a skill that can be learnt and enjoyed throughout life either professionally or as an amateur. It uses both creativity and intellect. The study of music covers many disciplines including history, maths and language. It includes problem solving and analysis. But most importantly, music is good for the soul and our emotional wellbeing!
What do you like best about the year level you teach?
I enjoy teaching students of all ages. It is fascinating to see the different stages of development and the enjoyment students experience when they achieve a new skill. It is particularly rewarding to hear students enjoying their music together – duos, trios, ensembles – and the look of satisfaction when they are able to play in harmony.
My favourite classroom activity
Making music!
What difference can good teaching make?
Good teaching can be the difference between playing an instrument and enjoying making music!
Other Hats
When I’m not teaching guitar or cello, I’m often making music in ensembles and chamber music groups. I’m a member of the Bendigo Guitar Trio/Quartet and Allegrezza Flute and Guitar Duo and play with the Bendigo Symphony Orchestra. When I’m not playing music I enjoy the outdoors: gardening, camping, cycling, skiing, and more recently horse riding.
