What do you love about the Arts?

Whether people have experienced trauma, hardship, challenge, heartbreak or any of the other myriad of things that can confront a person – I believe there are ways to heal, ways to learn and ways to evolve when you engage with the arts. Music is something that my soul responds to. It’s a part of my ‘every day’, it’s my emotional coping mechanism and my first love. I love stories and befriending characters when I can get lost in a good book, a play or a film. These stories when written, told, acted and constructed well … makes me think about things differently and from other perspectives. Visual art work amazes and lifts me when I recognise intense beauty, social depiction or intelligence shining out of a piece. Dance is pure freedom to me, particularly when coupled with live music, my family or good friends.  There is thrill, there is comfort, there is originality, there is appreciation, there is life in all of these artistic expressions and I feel so grateful to have such access to it all.

When did you know you wanted to teach music?

I was given many opportunities to perform in school. I was the best pianist in my cohort in high school and I loved song writing and playing in bands.  I knew that solo performance would never be something I wanted but I really enjoyed helping my classmates with their work and understanding of music and theory.  I taught private piano at a high school while I was studying at university and I enjoyed learning all of the methodology and pedagogy that was ‘education’.

Who are some of your inspirations?

I think inspiration can come from so many places. Sara Bareilles is a singer-songwriter that I absolutely adore. Her lyrics and songs are crafted so beautifully and her voice is pure glory to me. I am always inspired by attending live music for bands that bring a room alive.  The Cat Empire will always be a favourite band to see in concert.  There is nothing like their gigs involving an awesome night of singing and dancing in a crowd of fans as devoted as I am. I am also inspired by mum’s capacity to care and to love, my son Tom’s strength and my son Cameron’s sweet nature.

What are some of the best things about your role as Leader for Co-Curricular Arts?

I get goose bumps every time I enjoy a concert showcasing my students on stage – their talent, their courage and their sense of nervous energy which culminates in purely magical moments on stage make my role very rewarding.  I am also very, very fortunate to work with some of the most amazing colleagues in creative projects and programs.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Last year I published a book and so while I have always loved to read, I have realised that I have a love for writing as well.  As well as this I love to listen to tunes surrounded by my many, many pot plants and vertical garden.  I adore hanging with my favourite people, playing puzzle games and binge-watching shows on Netflix.