What is your role in the Bellingen Youth Orchestra Ensembles?
I am the artistic director of the Bellingen Youth Orchestra and Conductor of the Youth Orchestra.
What are some of your musical achievements?
I have been involved in music education for most of my life sometimes as a teacher, some as a music administrator and as a conductor. I spent 15 years teaching before taking up a position as Instrumental Music Consultant for NSW in the Arts Unit for 8 years. During that time I was the State Music Camp Coordinator, responsible for overseas tours and teacher education. I also assisted with Choral and Instrumental festivals and the schools Spectacular and coordinated the Schools Ensemble Program. During this time, I also conducted the State Schools Symphony Orchestra. This was followed by a period as General Manager of the Sydney Youth Orchestra Association. Finally, to the country where, in Armidale, I was the Director of Music at PLC for 5 years before moving the warmer climate in Bellingen. My time here, about 17 years, has been a wonderful period of my life. Conducting, teaching and co-setting up and working with the Bellingen Youth Orchestra.
What do you love about playing music?
‘Music takes me on a journey into a different world’.
What inspired you to teach music in Bellingen?
I love teaching music in Bellingen because I find the students to be very creative and responsive and the community incredibly supportive.
