Itinerant Music Teacher Bios
Annabelle Laing
Annabelle’s performance career spans 50 years playing in ensembles and other projects, including two decades in the Nelson Symphony Orchestra.
In her role as an educator she shares her passion for all things musical. She runs early-childhood foundational music classes, coaches secondary school chamber groups and teaches performance flute, piano and recorder to students of all ages.
Her philosophy is one of nurturing musicianship in every student.
Grace Lee
Grace is an experienced music teacher with 20 years of expertise in providing music lessons to individuals of all ages, from children to adults. She has taught in various school settings and offered private lessons, focusing on instrumentation and general music theory.
Since 2020, Grace has been teaching violin in New Zealand. In March 2021, she completed a course at the Institute of Registered Music Teachers of New Zealand.
Starting in February 2021, she has been teaching violin students at Nayland College and at the Nayland College Schools of Music.
Alan Burden
Alan's teaching style emphasizes getting students working on things they enjoy and identifying what goals they have. He combines building a foundation of technique with teaching students how to play songs that they choose or relate to with notes and musical examples provided.
Alan began learning and playing drum set at age 17. He is proficient in various drum and percussion instruments across different genres. His musical roots are jazz-based drum set playing.
James Gould
James’ musical journey began with a passion for guitar at a young age, and his dedication has driven him to achieve significant milestones in his musical career.
He holds a degree in Contemporary Music from Whitirea Polytechnic, where he not only pursued his studies but also started teaching guitar part-time at Studio Sasada School of Music.
After graduating, James continued to teach, sharing his knowledge and love for music with students of all ages and levels. His teaching experience ranges from one-on-one tuition to group lessons, demonstrating his adaptability and flexibility in catering to the needs of his students.
"Students are considered central to all school decision making. Each individual is well supported through holistic academic and pastoral pathways for success. Trustees and leaders make deliberate and strategic decisions to direct staffing and other resourcing where it will have the greatest impact for learners."
- Education Review Office Report 2020
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