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Click Here to Queensland
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Meet The Kindermusik Educators Geoff Driver, Adelaide, South Aust About 'Mr Geoff' (Driver): Music has always been a big part of Geoff's life. Whether singing, playing, arranging, conducting, teaching, recording or producing, Geoff's motivation, enthusiasm & energy for music have always been exceptional. Following various roles within the state public service, Geoff took an opportunity in 2001 to put music at the centre of his working life, establishing 'Tritones', an Adelaide business which teaches music classes for young children. "I've been singing basically all of my life - in musicals, choirs, vocal groups and our band, both live and in recording studios, and I love impacting positively on development, particularly with young children, so this is a work from my heart", he says. "When our own son was born, we wanted to give him the best start we could, so we chose Kindermusik®, and are absolutely thrilled with what it has fostered and continues to bring out in him - musically, with language & concepts, singing, pitch recognition, imagination, socially & emotionally and in us together as we relate as a family." "This is what I want to give to other families through my teaching." "A good start in music is a good start in life. It's not only musical development, it's the development of the whole child and improving learning capacity. Both my experience and the extensive research shows that it really works." "Please talk to me if you're interested in your child's development. I would love to help" he says.
Diana Acheson, Toowoomba, Qld, BA(Mus) Grad Dip Ed (Childcare) Diana has a BA(Mus) from the QLD Conservatorium of Music and a Grad Dip Education (Childcare) from USQ. After leaving the Conservatorium Diana became a licensed Yamaha teacher and taught singing and piano privately. Looking for something a little extra and feeling that no philossphy provided the complete package for every child, Diana found Kindermusik in 1998. She joined and soon grew a studio to 65 students within the first few months. In 2002 Diana made Maestro (the top 5 educators in Australia) and in October of the same year was ask to be a mentor for Kindermusik International, training all new educators. In 2003 Diana was awarded a Maestro in Outreach for outreach work with special needs and underpriviledged children. In 2008 Diana was awarded Maestro in Masterful Teaching, the highest pedagogy award given by Kindermusik. In 2009 Diana received the Maestro Producer award, being in the top 5% of studios in the world. "I love Kindermusik for what it gives EVERY child, EVERY family and EVERY educator," Diana says. It is so multi-purpose in its benefits, methodologies and possibilities. It is inclusive of every child, regardless or background, experience or disability and opens doors for educators to grow as both people and professionals. I love that an autistic child can walk into my classroom, with no speech, not able to communicate, showing no emotions and having no social skills and emerge 1 or 2 years later hugging Mum and telling her with words that he loves her. There is nothing that replaces that magic for me!" Diana's studio, Kids Discover, caters for every child and every parent that walks through her door. With teachers on staff and 2 locations, one at Highfields and the other in Toowoomba, Diana offers class times nearly every day of the week.  Kylie Clift - Licensed KM educator and Director of Jim Jam Music. My love of all genres of music developed in early childhood with many an amateur concert performed for family and friends (isn't this how we all start out?). After successfully majoring in drama and music at high school I got involved in the thriving musical theatre scene in Sydney staring in various productions all over Sydney before moving on to professional work in rock bands and vocal groups whilst working in the travel industry and studying part-time. In 1990 I studied ‘Fundamentals of Jazz' at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music then went onto perform in the successful, mo-award nominated cabaret group "The Voluptuosos' from 1995-2005. The Voluptuosos went on to win the Australian Singing Championships and worked successfully in the corporate market with firms like Club Med, AMN Amro and NSW Nurses Association. I studied to become a licensed Kindermusik educator in 2005 and spent 2005/2006 teaching Kindermusik on the lower North Shore before starting Jim Jam Music in 2007 in Hornsby. At the 2007 National Kindermusik Conference I was nominated and elected as a member of the Advisory Board of Kindermusik Educators Australia. Life is now focused on family; husband Roger and daughters, Lexie (7) and Jorja (4) and sharing my passion for early childhood music education with the local community whilst furthering my studies in Early Childhood Education. Kylie Clift, Jim Jam Music...a jump start to music! www.jimjammusic.com.au jimjammusic@bigpond.com Carol Bromley, Mt Barker, South Australia
After an initial career as an accountant, she emigrated to Adelaide and, at home with her baby son, began teaching the piano privately, having qualified with an ATMusA. To supplement the piano teaching, she worked as a piano accompanist at the Mt Barker Waldorf School for many years before seeking a change which came in 2005 when she found her life’s love in Kindermusik. What excites her most about Kindermusik is that it enables her to combine her love of children with her love of music. Watching children learn new skills, unfold and blossom, become more confident and sure of themselves are some of the joys she derives from this work. Providing a much needed environment where Mums and children can have quality time together with others, singing, moving and having fun together through music, is very satisfying. Becoming a Kindermusik Educator has given Carol the flexibility to create her own work schedule, if singing, moving and having fun together can be called work. While still enjoying teaching the piano to all ages from 6 years to 86 years of age, Kindermusik has enabled her to bring a music education to preschoolers as well now. “When my son was a baby, I was always looking for songs and verses to enrich his daily rhythms. One regret is that I did not know about Kindermusik then. I know we missed out on some very special experiences. My aim is to bring the Kindermusik experience to as many families as I possibly can.” click here for Carol's and Milestones with Music contact details Michelle Peters, Padstow, Sydney Born in Bendigo, Victoria, Michelle moved to Sydney with her family and spent 28 years living in Peakhurst, Sydney where she met and married her husband and gave birth to her 2 children. Michelle learnt piano formally for 6 years whilst growing up but often wishes she had been introduced to music through a program like Kindermusik before taking up formal lessons. It's this desire, and her knowledge of musics' developmental benefits, that has lead Michelle to place a high value on music and dance in her own family. She believes the power of music in a childs life lies in making it accessible and fun. Michelle loves engaging with kids and their worlds of imagination and play, especially through music and movement. She loves valueing kids by giving them quality time and attention, and hopes to bring music and all it's benefits into the lives of other families, using it to build, enrich and encourage little people and their family relationships. When Michelle discovered Kindermusik she discovered a program that put a tangible structure to the philosophies they both shared. “My husband is very musical as well so we enjoyed a lot of music activities as a family, so teaching Kindermusik is really just an extension of what I was already doing at home” says Michelle. Prior to becoming a Kindermusik teacher, Michelle worked in video and television editing and still actively partakes in this in her spare time. She loves movies, loves dancing (especially dancing with her kids) as well as spending time with her friends and family. Michelle's objectives were to find true job flexibility but to also bring positive things into her kids' lives as well as others. The opportunity to build family's relationships and impact the community is what's driving her to growing Kindermusik and introducing it into the lives of others. She believes that impacting kids in a positive way extends to their family and contributes to building positive future communities. click here for Michelle's and Kindermusik with Kids on the Beat contact details Kathryn Downie, Albury&Wodonga, Vic&NSW
“As I stood waiting in line, holding one award, with recipients of other awards at the Kindermusik Gala Awards Dinner at the Mantra Hotel in Mooloolaba, Qld, on the Saturday night, I listened intently to the woman presenting the final award of the evening. Kathryn was also awarded with the following: Musikids is a music studio for families based in the Slab Hut, on the banks of the Murray River. Musikids services the towns surrounding areas of North East Victoria and South East NSW. Kindermusik programs make up 98% of Musikids business. This means that in 2008, more than 245 children aged between 0 – 7 relied on Musikids to inspire, develop and learn through music, movement & fun! In 2000 Kathryn resigned from the NSW Education department as a High School music teacher, and Kindermusik in Kathryn’s Corner was born in Corowa. In 2004 it grew into Musikids with classes commencing in the towns of Wangaratta, Albury and Wodonga. In 2007, the Albury and Wodonga classes came together at the Slab Hut. For 18 years she has taught the Piano, Classical Guitar and Music Theory using the AMEB syllabus as well as my own methods and philosophies. Several students have become teachers of Music or their chosen instrument themselves and remain friends to this day. In most recent years, Kathryn has enjoyed conducting community choirs and writing her own music. Kathryn is a farmer’s daughter who currently lives in Corowa, loves Friday night footy, Beethoven, the Foo Fighters, Elton John, lots of Jazz, all types of Chamber music, big red wines, good people, kayaking, horse races, 5-star hotels, singing & bringing music into the lives of children. She is a person who is tolerant, likeable, driven, says silly things at times, is very appreciative and is passionate about what she does every day. “Musikids is what I am passionate about every day. It combines all of my loves – music, children, helping families and working with a positive team in a very special place. I have had the exceptional pleasure of being witness to so many first smiles, first hugs, first steps, first notes, first beats and final cries that I believe that this is the best ‘job’ ever!” click here for Kathryn and Musikids contact details
I was yet to know that bringing music and children together was my life's work, until we had a baby of our own. I took him to Kindermusik classes, and knew I wanted to train as a Kindermusik Teacher. He is now 6 and passionate about both music and learning. Kindermusik has taught him so many fundamental skills to help him understand the world around him. He still attends Kindermusik classes and loves it! Our second son is also a Kindermusik baby whose musical journey is just beginning! In my last 4 years of teaching, I have seen so many ways Kindermusik has touched the lives of the families I have taught. I have seen a very introverted child, to shy to participate for much of the term, suddenly decide one day to get up and join the group. This brought tears to many an eye! That child has never looked back. Praise goes to his parents who persevered with Kindermusik, knowing that the program was the best choice for their child. I have seen intimate first moments like when a child feels the steady beat and the parent and child celebrate! Or when a baby snuggles closely in a rocking embrace. Precious moments. During class, children are respected for their individuality and self expression, while also given sensible boundaries to feel secure. This nuturing of your child's self-esteem is something I am very passionate about as their teacher. If they are loving what they are doing, the rest will follow! Parents and carers are also supported with respect and grace and given knowledge to take on as they wish. A very important initiative for setting up my business is to bring music to as many children as possible both in my own community and to those families less fortunate. My business is committed to donating a percentage of my profits each term to supporting the "Australian Children's Music Foundation" or ACMF. The amazing work this foundation does, means that more children can have access to music as part of their basic schooling, as well as being involved in creative music programs. Please go to my links page for more information about ACMF. By bringing your children to Kindermusik classes at the musical you, you are contributing directly to bringing music into the lives of other children, just like your own! Kindermusik is something to be experienced firsthand. I invite you to watch your children experience this wonderful program, and share in their joy! click here for Katie's contact details || back to top Tania Vadeikis, Gold Coast, Qld
Tania was music teacher, choral director and instrumental and ensemble coordinator at Perth Modern School (one of only two specialist schools in WA) until 2000. She was appointed Director of Music at Presbyterian Ladies' College in WA in 2001, before relocating to Queensland in 2003, where she was a music and singing teacher at Brisbane Girls Grammar School, and also an Aural Studies lecturer and tutor at The University of Queensland. Tania was also the Music Director of the Western Australian Children's Choir for many years, where they were accepted to perform at the Sydney Youth International Music Festival. Tania has been involved with the WA Opera Company, and sung in Puccini's Madame Butterfly and Bizet's Carmen. She has also performed the lead roles in Gilbert and Sullivan's Trial by Jury and Iolanthe, and most recently was the Assistant Music Director and cast member of Spotlight Theatre’s production of ‘The Pirates of Penzance’. Tania has been appointed the conductor of the Australian Youth Choir (Gold Coast division) for 2009, also voice teacher at Canterbury College. Tania brings her love of music and singing to Kindermusik® with her classes servicing the Northern Gold Coast. Musik Time presents Kindermusik®, a wonderful and fun musical foundation for the future. Supporting learning in all areas of development and providing the highest quality home materials, Kindermusik® is the best place to be!
My formal musical background began at age 10 when she fell in love with the piano and has since completed my Diploma of Performance in 1991. With over 20 years in the industry, Jo has performed at recitals, played in bands and accompanied stage productions, but the most rewarding aspect of her life as a musician, is teaching. “I enjoy communicating, playing and having heaps of fun with children of all ages and love encouraging them to learn the ‘language' of music. It is an achievement I take pride in.” says Jo. Jo found Kindermusik in 2003, and has really loved every bit of the amazing Kindermusik journey. ‘Kindermusik has brought a new facet of music into my life and also my family's life'. Since becoming a licensed educator, Jo now teaches all of the Kindermusik curricular – Village, Our Time, Imagine That!, Young Child and Family Time. Jump In 2 Musik is located at Burleigh just off the M1 highway and is easily accessed from all areas of the Gold Coast. Jo is currently a member of the Board of Advisors, and really enjoys keeping her finger on the pulse by helping The Partnership go forward into the future, along with all the other esteemed board members and KDA. Click here for Jo's contact details || back to top
Tanya has a Bachelor of Music in Flute performance, a Graduate Diploma in Education and has taught private instrumental, group & classroom music in both primary & high school environments before having children. She has two girls of her own aged 3 & 18 months and wanted them to have a musical education but there were no music classes available at the time in Burradoo (near Bowral). This prompted Tanya to combine her love of music with her love of teaching and also to introduce it to other families that value music in their children’s development. Teaching Kindermusik is a new path in Tanya’s teaching career and as a parent herself, she is fulfilled by not only her contribution to other children’s lives but also loves watching her own daughters grow through the curriculum. Her youngest daughter Ainslie can’t stop bopping and waving when she hears her ‘hello music’ whilst her eldest daughter Eloise zig zags across the floor to some tunes at bath time! From a professional perspective, Tanya has a hard time picking her favourite class or song. She appreciates the curriculum for different reasons. For example, she loves the warmth & tenderness of a ‘Village class’ and the exploration of the ‘Our Time’ Class (with lots of interaction between child & parent) As a trained musician herself, Tanya is also finding rewarding the process of formalizing the musical learning in the ‘Young Child program’ as this is the final step before instrumental lessons. With her studio classes growing rapidly as families catch on to the Kindermusik phenomenon, Tanya is pleased to be teaching 12 classes over a 3 day period. This still allows her to set and limit her own schedule to fit in with her own needs as a family, but also to earn an extra income which is rewarding, spirit lifting and like no other job! click here for Tanya's contact details || back to top Rebecca is a born and bred Tully woman having lived here her whole life, and proving that business can blossom in a regional town, Rebecca leads a rewarding and successful life as a Kindermusik educator. Far North Queensland is remote and like many kids growing up in a remote area, Rebecca was home educated with the Australian Christian Academy of Distance Education. Growing up, she learnt the piano and the violin and 3 years ago began teaching it to children. Her main objective for joining Kindermusik was that she loved the idea of structured music curriculum for small children. She knew about Kindermusik through the program that her sister ran but with a growing family of her own, her sister needed someone to take over. With this, Rebecca took over the program and rose to the challenge of expanding the business. Not only was Rebecca able to take over the program, but she also moved the studio into down town Tully to make it more accessible for other families. With word of the program spreading, and classes filling fast, Rebecca will soon be expanding the program to Innisfail, a neighbouring town. Rebecca loves the independence of running her own business, and the opportunity to rub shoulders with many different people in so many diverse fields. She says that the relationships she has developed are life enriching and the work with children very rewarding. “With Kindermusik I am able to continue doing many things that a full time job would hinder, such as playing the piano and violin, and spending time with my family” Says Rebecca. Among her favourite classes to teach, Rebecca likes watching babies progress with ‘Village’ and finds ‘Shinnamarink’ and ‘I love you’ fun and happy songs which can be used for just about anything whether it be dancing, playing instruments or just to concentrate on. Her favourite instrument is the ‘Milk & Cookies’ stir xylophone for its lovely mellow sound. click here for Rebecca's contact details || back to top
Becoming a Kindermusik Educator was a natural progression for Verna who studied piano, violin and viola at school and is a qualified Primary School Teacher (P-10). After graduation, an interest in teaching and languages lead Verna to Japan where she participated in the Japan Exchange Teaching Programme and first discovered the benefits of using music as a teaching tool. (As a result, there are many children in country Hiroshima who now sing “The Wheels on the Bus” with an Aussie accent!) With the added background of 20 years of dance (classical, tap and modern) plus a Diploma in the teaching of Dance, your children will be learning from someone with a well-rounded knowledge and passion for music and the arts. Verna was first introduced to Kindermusik in 2001 when she attended Kindermusik Village classes with her 7 month-old son. She loved the warmth of the small-group classes and the way Kindermusik supports the parent’s role in educating children. She was particularly impressed with Kindermusik’s focus on family involvement and the inclusion of quality materials for home use. (Verna found the Kindermusik home CDs invaluable for their calming and distracting qualities during long day-trips while traveling through the UK with her 20 month-old son in 2002!) Verna has been a licensed Educator for the past 5 years and, in 2007, earned her professional certification with Kindermusik International. She enjoys her role as board member for the Partnership of Kindermusik Educators and on the management committee of her local community kindergarten, which helps keep her involved and up to date with early childhood education and developments. When asked why she joined Kindermusik, Verna replied with the same response we get from many of our educators – to balance family life with a job she is passionate about. She began teaching while 4 months pregnant with her second child and loves the flexibility being a Kindermusik Teacher allows her while raising a young family. She loves the relationships she develops with her Kindermusik families, the warm social environment, and the constant rewards of seeing a child’s musical growth. Described by her Kindermusik families as “wonderful”, having “great energy” and “tremendously generous”, check out Verna’s Kindermusik classes at ‘the J’ in Noosa Junction and soon to be commencing in Cooroy. click here for Verna's contact details || back to top
Lisa was born in Melbourne and moved to Shepparton where she grew up then returned to Melbourne to work as a vocalist. Her first job out of school was at her local TV station in Shepparton in the film department and was soon approached to host a Saturday morning children's Television Show. Lisa also worked with young children early on as a gymnastics coach and running a young child's gym, fitness & movement program. Lisa's professional singing career has included working in venues around Australia and in the last 10 years has focused mainly on corporate work at venues such as Palladium at Crown, The Grand Hyatt Ballroom & Hotel Sofitel with some of Melbourne's top corporate bands. Lisa also performs in her own Jazz Quartet and has had the privilege of performing at Melbourne's top Jazz venue: Bennett's Lane. Her many TV appearances range from GMA & IMT to The Panel and Hey, Hey It's Saturday. Lisa has featured as vocalist/songwriter on dance act Quench's album "Consequenchial" with the single "Embrace the Sunshine" and has enjoyed working as a backing vocalist for artists including Vanessa Amorossi and Merril Bainbridge. click here for Lisa's contact details || back to top
For a country girl from Jamberoo, Tina has led an exciting career in teaching and music all around the world. She has sung with Opera Australia, has taught children both internationally and locally and was based in Japan for two years teaching Children’s English prior to returning to Australia. Since returning to Australia with her husband and two children, aged 4 and 2, Tina has been teaching around Sydney as well as tutoring for the Sydney Children’s Choir. With an Aria winning husband (double bass player 3 times aria award winning band Monsieur Camembert) it’s hard for Tina not to live and breathe music. When she’s not teaching Kindermusik, Tina is listening to music, playing music and performing as a soloist. Knowing the need for the high quality musical experience and with a life that demands a flexible job, Tina found Kindermusik and says it’s the ‘best job in the world’. She loves the fact that she is directly involved with everything she does and the teaching side gives her the flexibility to drop off and pick up her children from school every school day! Tina’s silly and fun approach to Kindermusik means she's not short of fans in her classes. She brings her love of music and singing to Kindermusik with her classes in Newtown, Erskineville and now Glebe. click here for Tina's contact details || back to top Simone Melder - Blackburn, Melbourne, VIC
While she has worked in office environments for most of her professional career, Simone’s musical career started as a teenager, when she belonged to an operatic company and took part in many hit operas giving invaluable training. Simone found the many years of working in an office environment unstimulating, boring and dampening on her musical spirit. She yearned to let her love for music out. Escaping the unrewarding office environment, Simone recently undertook a musical theatre course through TAFE which has seen her performing in a musical theatre restaurant. When asked why she became an Kindermusik educator, Simone explained that it is not for the money, but for the sheer joy of it. Kindermusik gives her flexibility, musical expression and helps her touch children with the magic of music. If she’s not teaching Kindermusik, Simone is enjoying poetry, her grandkids and singing to the elderly in nursing homes. With a growing number of clients raving about her as a teacher, Simone has really found her calling as a Kindermusik educator. click here for Simone's contact details || back to top
Hendrina Hancock is a well cultured Kindermusik educator. Born in South Africa, she lived in Asia for five years before moving to Australia when she was 21. As of 7 months ago, Hendrina calls Auckland in New Zealand home. Hendrina began teaching Kindermusik as a new mum wanting a quality music program for her daughter but found there was nothing like Kindermusik already in Auckland. With a professional background in Child Psychology and Special Education as well as over 7 years' experience in developing educational curricula for young children, Hendrina comes from a solid foundation of child development and has a good grounding in recognising and communicating key benefits of a program. She recommends the ‘Foundations of Learning' aspect of Kindermusik and some of her favourites to teach include the ‘Village' class and ‘Skinnamarink'. With a little girl and baby on the way for Hendrina as well as having worked with children for the most part of her professional life, kids really make her ‘tick'. She has a great sensitivity to the needs, abilities and potential of each and every child in her class and likes to focus on and develop their individual talents and potentials. Hendrina believes that "parent education" is an integral part of a child's' development as they are a child's first and foremost educator. She therefore encourages and recognises parents' importance throughout her classes, empowering them to continue at home with materials for further learning and enrichment. When asked to describe how she feels about teaching Kindermusik, Hendrina says that she is very satisfied and fulfilled teaching kids something she belives is of great benefit to them. She also loves seeing parents and babies bond in such a deep and meaningful way whilst learning so much at the same time. In her spare time, Hendrina enjoys reading, watching movies, hiking, outdoors/nature and spending time with her family. If you would like to introduce your children to Kindermusik, contact Hendrina to join a class or to find out when she will next be conducting a preview session. click here for Hendrina's contact details || back to top Judith Hulson-Calvert - Central Coast, NSW
Australia has been home for 21 years. For most of that time, Judith's music remained a passionate hobby, while pursuing a career in Call Centre and Customer Service management. Having previously taught keyboard in Sydney, Judith is now fulfilling her dream of having a music school, with the vision of creating musical learning opportunities on the Central Coast in NSW for people of all ages and abilities.
Judith also plays violin and keyboard for the Wyong Musical Theatre Company and is currently studying violin at the Central Coast Conservatorium. Judith plays rock violin with an all girl ‘a Capella' and
Judith lives in Mardi with her husband Eddie and dog Max. Judith's other passion is horses and she visits her horse Echo as often as is possible for relaxing trail rides in Ourimbah State Forest. “I have always believed that music feeds your soul and the earlier start, the better for your child. I chose Kindermusik as my early childhood music program, because it is simply the most well-respected in the world today. Kindermusik combines 25 years experience with up-to-date developmental research, ensuring the best experiences for little ones and their carers.” click here for Judith's contact details (returns to NSW find-a-class page) || back to top Kylie Winkler - Ba. Education(Primary) Qualified Kindermusik Educator Kylie is the business owner and is working hard to achieve her dream of touching as many children's lives as possible through the magic of music. A qualified Primary School Teacher, Kylie has spent the past 3 1/2 years working as the Music Specialist at a primary school in Kalgoorlie. Prior to that, she spent four years tutoring clarinet and saxophone to students in Perth, as well as refining her own instrumental skills through playing in various concert bands and orchestras in Perth. As a child, Kylie was a keen member of the Perth Children's Choir, and also learnt to play the organ. In her spare time she enjoys to jam with her friends, particularly on her newly discovered djembes! "I am excited to be able to bring Kindermusik to the regional town of Kalgoorlie, and hope that my students gain as much enjoyment from the classes as I get from teaching them!" Jillian Hargrave - BA/Grad Dip Ed(double major in education and psychology) Jill has been living in the Goldfields for the past 14 years and is excited to be coming on board as a business partner with Kylie this year. She is married, with three gorgeous children aged 9yrs, 5yrs and 2 years. Jill is currently on parental leave from her position as a music specialist at a local primary school in Kalgoorlie, where she has twelve years of experience teaching music to children aged between 5-12 years. Jill has been involved in musical activities since her own primary school days! She plays the French Horn, which she studied for TEE music and has played in various concert bands and orchestras around Perth. Over the years she has also sung in choirs and has utilised this vocal training when directing the school choir in her role as Music Specialist. "I am looking to share my love of teaching music outside the school system and under the wonderful and dynamic umbrella of Kindermusik!" click here for Kylie and Jill's contact details (back to WA 'find-a-class' page) || back to top
Kerry has lived in Gladstone for the last ten years but prior to this she chased the sun from Sydney to Gold Coast to Brisbane and Townsville before settling in Gladstone to raise her two beautiful kids; Anna, aged 4 and Daniel, aged 2. Born and raised in Sydney, Kerry has always been a fan of music and playing. A master of the Flute, she has won numerous awards for her performance, she has taught children and been a co-conductor and principle flautist of 11 Brigade Army Reserve Band. Apart from being a single mum, Kerry also keeps herself busy between Kindermusik, play group and her local Baptist Church. If she's not converting families to the laughter and learning of music, you might find Kerry playing the flute, organizing crèche, planning play group activities, reading or teasing her brain with Sudoku. Having been a primary school teacher for many years, Kerry decided to bring her love of children and music to Kindermusik in the hope of granting her own children and many others a musical heritage – one which she believes they will greatly benefit from. Describing Kindermusik as ‘a passion' and ‘one of the most satisfying jobs' of her life, Kerry believes that it is has fostered and flourished both her musical and intellectual abilities. Despite loving the programs available for all age groups, Kerry particularly loves the ‘Our Time' program for the inspirational joy and energy that toddlers possess. When asked to explain what impact Kindermusik has made on her life, Kerry says that it has allowed her to be wonderfully flexible. In fact, this was one of the reasons that she became a Kindermusik educator in the first place. Being a Kindermusik educator allows Kerry to be a fulltime, loving mother of two, lets her contribute to the community and finesse her own personal skills and goals. click here for Kerry's contact details || back to top
Rosemary Signorelli has been performing music since she was 8 years old. This has included singing, playing the guitar and keyboard, hand drumming and a range of other instruments. She has performed and recorded as a singer in a range of classical styles from medieval to twentieth century music, opera, musical comedy and chamber music. As a registered music therapist she works will all musical styles and music of other cultures. Rosemary also has qualifications and work experience as a music teacher, an occupational therapist and manager of community and aged care programmes. She is currently studying counseling and psychotherapy. She has worked in hospitals, special schools and several community organisations as well as in private practice. Her broad experience leads her to have a particular interest in early development, child protection and working with children with special needs. Rosemary believes that there is music in everyone, which can be expressed through singing, playing, songwriting or movement. What matters is the expression of the heart and spirit, rather than the quality of the performance. Rosemary is passionate about the power of music for personal growth, and the building of personal wellbeing, healthy relationships and community. She believes that Kindermusik, in addition to enhancing all areas of a child's development, has particular value in helping to build child friendly and child safe communities. This can be achieved through building on strong family relationships, increasing confidence of children, empowering children within appropriate boundaries, enabling them to express all kinds of emotions, and providing opportunities to listen to them. All of this can be enhanced within the Kindermusik experience. Having said all of that, in the end, the Kindermusik experience is a very loving, happy and fun-filled one. I hope you will join us. click here for Rosemary's contact details || back to top
Leanne Correll has spent her entire life involved in and around music. After studying piano, violin, saxophone, and singing in many choirs, her love of music lead her to the Queensland Conservatorium of Music. There she completed her Bachelor of Music (Honours) with a major in Piano Accompaniment and minor in Piano Pedagogy (piano teaching). On completion of this degree, Leanne moved to England where she taught private piano lessons for two years, trained in and taught the Yamaha Keyboard Method, and worked as a Musical Director/rehearsal pianist for various musical theatre companies. Leanne became interested in the musical development of young children during her pedagogy studies at the Conservatorium. She began working as an accompanist for the Young Conservatorium choirs The Melodic Minors, (ages 5-7) and The Childrens Chorus (ages 7-12) and found this very inspiring. Whilst working for Yamaha in England, Leanne completed courses in teaching children of ages 6 and 7 (Junior Play for Keeps) and found this age group again stimulating. Eager to continue learning about the influence music has on young children, she also began to focus her private piano teaching on young children of 5, 6 and 7 years old. On her return to Brisbane Leanne looked into continue her involvement in the musical education of young children. She looked for a teaching method aimed at group lessons for young children that could help to promote both their musical and total development. It became quite clear that Kindermusik was the answer, with an up to date and researched program that included elements from well-known pedagogues such as Orff, Kodaly and Dalcroze. After teaching Kindermusik for 2 years, Leanne needed expand her small piano and Kindermusik studio. She then formed a partnership withJanet and Karen Stone to create Flying Fox Studios - music, art and activities. Since then there has been no looking back. Now Flying Fox Studios has quietly celebrated their 1st birthday and just seems to keep expanding. Leanne looks forward to many more years of teaching, and enjoying the way that Kindermusik delights, stimulates and encourages growth in children. click here for Leanne's contact details || back to top Kindermusik was an amazing discovery for me and I am now in my eleventh year as an educator. So I am one of the originals in Australia and still very passionate about all the curricula and the benefits they provide for children. There is no other early childhood music program that does this as well and as thoroughly as Kindermusik. I personally teach all the classes from my studio at New Town and in my home at Mt Nelson. I am also the Tasmanian GymbaROO franchisee, an association which came about interestingly through my Kindermusik families who were also attending Gymbaroo. As well as teaching, a major focus of my working week is as a Research Fellow at the University of Tasmania studying young childrens’ musical identity and well being. A number of children from my Kindermusik classes are participants in this exciting research which is a longitudinal study conducted over a three year period under the direction of Associate professor Margaret Barrett. It is being funded by a $200,000 grant from the Australian Council for Research. click here for contact details for Christine's classes || back to top Joanne Davies - East Coast Music - Brisbane, Queensland
“I am privileged to say that I am now doing my “Life’s Best Work” – that is, as well as being both wife & Mum – I’m involved in bringing families with children together in a musical environment which supports and nurtures children and assists in their development,” says Joanne. Joanne’s love of music began at a young age when she was desperate to learn to play the piano. Unfortunately, her family couldn’t afford to buy one, but thanks to her generous neighbours, Joanne spent hours playing the piano until she was 12 and her family were able to buy their own. It was then that Joanne’s real lessons started and she began her journey into the magical world of music. This journey eventually led her to study at the Queensland Conservatorium of Music at the Mackay campus and spreading her love of music by teaching piano. Upon moving to Brisbane in 2000, Joanne met a local Kindermusik educator, who told her all about the Kindermusik philosophy and inspired Joanne to begin her own Kindermusik experience. “At this time I knew I wanted to continue teaching music but I didn’t want to do this at home after school hours with two small children, so I started East Coast Music,” says Joanne. In addition to offering the popular Kindermusik program for kids aged 0-7 years, Joanne also offers piano lessons students older than seven. “I can’t imagine doing anything more rewarding. The Kindermusik programs are fantastic. There are no pre-requisites for a child to learn and enjoy music, and children can start at any age between newborn and seven years (they don’t have to wait for a piano to begin their musical journeys!),” says Joanne. East Coast Music accepts each and every child, no matter what level of music ability they have and gently guides and helps them to achieve their full potential. Joanne creates an environment that is caring, social and musical, which encourages children to grow through music. “Through Kindermusik a child’s confidence will naturally grow because there is no pressure to perform in class, only assurance to participate at their own comfort and level when they are ready,” says Joanne. Kindermusik encourages parents and family members to be involved, to sing and dance along with their little ones, taking the music journey from the classroom to the home. "The rewards of seeing a baby’s face light up as we sing our hello song, watching a toddler spontaneously burst into song in class, observing a family rocking and singing together, and seeing the look of satisfaction when a young child masters a new song on the glockenspiel or recorder, these rewards are beyond measure. I am proud to be part of something that provides such positive experiences for families,” says Joanne. Click here for contact details for Joanne Davies classes || back to top
Eunice Beyer - Bach to Rock - Bundaberg, Queensland
“I’ve been involved with music all my life in one way or another. I’ve always loved to sing, I sang in church, school choirs and family group performances,” remembers Eunice. The privilege of teaching children the joys of music is the real magic of Kindermusik for Eunice. “To see the wonder and joy on their faces is immeasurable and to see the children grow week by week in their ability and knowledge is surreal. To be able to witness the benefits that Kindermusik is providing for them holds me in awe of the whole program and I feel honoured to be part of it,” says Eunice. But it hasn’t all been easy for Eunice. A naturally shy person, Eunice has had to overcome her fears of speaking in public. Kindermusik hasn’t just been a learning experience for her students it has also been one for Eunice. “It was a great achievement for me to be the one speaking in a group situation rather than the one listening, which is what I tend to do in public. Kindermusik has been great for the children but also me, especially my social skills and coordination,” says Eunice. Apart from the kids, Eunice loves the flexibility that Kindermusik brings to her life. Even though her kids are all full grown, her job as mum is still busy as ever. “The flexibility of Kindermusik has enabled me to support my daughter Amanda in her new business. I work in the office when I’m not in classes, which also gives me the chance to work on my lesson plans,” says Eunice. Eunice loves the range of programs which Kindermusik have developed, finding it difficult to have a favourite. “There is something special with each program and age group, I can’t say that I favour one more than the other, I just love them all,” says Eunice. “I now teach the Village, Our Time, Imagine That and Young Child programs at the moment. I’m about to start teaching Family Time as well and I know this program will bring yet another something special.” click here for contact details for Eunice's classes || back to top
Rachelle Knight - Junior Jammers, Modbury Heights, South Australia Rachelle Knight has always loved music. Her energy and enthusiasm are contagious and you’re guaranteed to love spending time with her each week, as you and your child experience the magic of a Kindermusik class. Professionally, Rachelle graduated with a Bachelor of Teaching (double music major) in 1993. She followed this up with a Bachelor of Education, Graduate Certificate in Catholic Education, and Certificates in both Music, and Small Business Management. Having passed many music exams, performed in concerts since the age of 7, and successfully competed in music competitions, Rachelle has a long history of knowledge and skills that she is willing to share. In fact, Rachelle has already been called upon for several years to teach other music teachers at South Australian Orff Schulwerk Music and Movement conferences. Rachelle’s music teaching career began with both private and small group instrumental teaching, at home and within music centres. Initially she taught Yamaha Electone Courses to children, as well as short keyboard courses to adults at Workers Education Australia (WEA). Later she accepted a permanent position as a Music Specialist/Music Coordinator on a large primary school campus, and never looked back. As a Music Specialist, Rachelle taught and ran the entire music program within her school. Each day she taught classroom music to 5-13 year olds (30 students at a time). She also conducted choirs, led bands and coordinated the instrumental program. All of this was very fulfilling, until she finally decided to become a mum! 2007 was a major turning point in Rachelle’s life when, after giving birth to her son Ashley, she suddenly discovered the many special things that babies have to offer. It was only through becoming a mum that Rachelle realised the enormous capacity for learning that small children have, and how important it was to expose them to musical experiences as early in life as possible. Waiting for students to be old enough to attend primary school before she could share music with them was no longer an option. Rachelle has since trained to become a qualified Kindermusik Educator and returned to work as a Music Specialist. She now looks forward to sharing the wonderful bond that music can create, with you and your child/ren. If you are looking for a special activity to share with your child, one that will help you to laugh and sing together, while also fostering growth in every aspect of your child’s development, then give Kindermusik a try today! Your child deserves the right to the musical knowledge and focused parental attention that both you and Kindermusik can offer together. click here for contact details for Rachelle's classes || back to top
Carolyn Clingan - Musical Memories presents Kindermusik - Geelong, Victoria
Carolyn believes that learning whilst having fun is the ideal situation, and is passionate about sharing the benefits of Kindermusik with others. She has witnessed how Kindermusik can enrich a child’s life, by providing valuable benefits for their development, encouraging creative play, teaching important life lessons and encouraging parent and child bonding. To top it off, the look of sheer delight and happiness on a child’s face while they are having fun singing and dancing is priceless. It was these benefits and enjoyment that Kindermusik songs have brought to her daughters, aged 6 and 3, that initially drove Carolyn to her desire to become an educator. “They have learned beat, listening skills, song lyrics and lovely singing voices,” says Carloyn. “Most of all it makes them so happy.” Since she was a child, Carolyn has embraced music as a big part of her life. Her mother’s love of classical music saw her childhood home always full of song, and from the age of 4 to 13 Carolyn did ballet. Throughout her life she has continued in ballet, calisthenics, and stage performance, and attends live theatre and ballet performances. “Music has always had the power to transform my mood,” says Carolyn. “And being a mum now myself, I include music, singing and dancing into our daily lives as I have experienced its wonderful benefits.” Carolyn has been married for 11 years, and loves spending time listening to music, attending live theatre, singing at home, playing with her daughters and going to the beach. Carolyn looks forward to being a part of the wonderful Kindermusik journey and making a positive difference to families. click here for contact details for Carolyn's classes || back to top
Janelle Dougherty - Kindermusik with Janelle - Forster/Tuncurry, NSW
Before starting with Kindermusik, Janelle was raising a family, running an eisteddfod, teaching piano and children’s choir, and had previously worked in a pre-school. Now that her own children have grown up and left home, leaving her with the proverbial “empty nest”, Janelle loves being a part of other families’ lives and helping them enjoy their children, before they grow up too quickly! Janelle’s own children have taught her so much and she says it’s wonderful to be able to pass that knowledge on. Since being a Kindermusik Educator, Janelle has met some wonderful families and enjoys the small milestones they reach each week. “Making a difference in a child’s life - what could be more rewarding,” says Janelle. As well as enjoying the job that has made her the happiest she’s ever been at work, Janelle also enjoys the flexibility of being able to set her own hours and still have time to enjoy all the important things in life: her family, friends and the dolphins! “I live in the most beautiful place on earth,” says Janelle. With a belief that children are the most precious gift of all, Janelle describes looking into a child’s eyes and seeing their innocence as being the most heart-warming experience – one she gets to experience every day. Janelle sums up her feelings about her Kindermusik classes in eight words, “Children and music… there are no greater gifts!” click here for contact details for Janelle's classes || back to top
Brenda Shaylor - Kindermusik at Our House - Mandurah, Western Australia Brenda Shaylor’s Kindermusik at Our House promotes a pressure-free environment where parent and child are able to share the love and magic of music in many delightful, meaningful and beneficial ways. Brenda brings 30 years of music teaching experience to her Kindermusik classes. Having graduated from the Sydney Conservatorium in 1979 with the DSCM Diploma in Flute, as Teacher with Merit and Performer, Brenda has primarily taught flute and piano, as well as theory and musicianship. She has done many music recitals, has conducted woodwind workshops in NSW and WA, and currently examines for the Australian Music Examinations Board (AMEB). The prospect of being more involved in teaching music to young children and babies is what initially drew Brenda to become a Kindermusik educator. In her classes she enjoys witnessing the joy in children as they master new skills, and seeing their delight when they do something they love. “When allowed to work at their own pace, children are amazing in their abilities,” says Brenda. As well as bringing happiness to children, Kindermusik also touches every aspect of a child’s development in a gentle, nurturing way. “Kindermusik classes provide the perfect opportunity for parents to bond with their children through music in a variety of ways”, says Brenda. “This may be through simply sharing the class together or through activities such as intentional touch, rocking, dancing and singing together.” When describing her most treasured experience bringing together children and music, Brenda reflects on witnessing a 4 year old African child who had rarely spoken “come alive” singing Old Macdonald and acting it out. “It brought tears to my eyes to hear this child begin talking in English and to see her smile and laugh after many months of no communication,” says Brenda. Brenda loves mixing with people of different cultural backgrounds and enjoys learning different languages. Having studied French and Cambodian over the years, she relishes opportunities to speak in those languages. In her free time she also loves reading for the way it opens up unlimited storehouses of knowledge, information and pure relaxation. Brenda has five adult children, one of whom is on her way to sharing the Kindermusik teaching experience with Brenda after completing her training in 2009. click here for contact details for Brenda's classes || back to top
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Diana Acheson is a mother, teacher, performer and conductor of choirs. Starting her involvement with music at the age of 4 years, Diana has lived and breathed music ever since. Her career has seen over 20 years of working with children, music and movement, including children with special needs.
Carol Bromley grew up in South Africa, beginning piano lessons at the age of 10. Celebrations with family and friends always ended up as musical events – jamming and singing together. She always enjoyed being in school choirs and in her adult years, participating in an acappella group, creating harmonies. 
Michelle Peters is a wife, and a mum to, Brinly, aged 3 and Joshua, aged 1. She is testimony of all the mums out there that are trying to fulfill their desire to spend more time raising their children whilst also contributing financially to the family. Doing so in a modern day world which is structured to get mums back to work sooner can be a difficult task, yet Michelle is proving that wearing the mum hat, the business hat and the wife hat is entirely possible – especially now she has found Kindermusik. 
Tania is a mother, teacher and performer. A graduate of Edith Cowan University (Bachelor of Education) and the WA Conservatorium of Music (Master of Music in Performance). She completed her Australian Kodaly Certificate in Music at The University of Queensland in 2000 and also obtained her Kindermusik Licence in 2006. 
Jo Byrnes is a mother of three boys – Zac, Jai and Callum - stepmother of two girls – Dione and Renae - and believe that the secret to her love of music started with having more than her fair share of music in her life from a very young age. My parents always had music playing and enjoyed going to life performances and concerts.
Tanya is a wife, a mother and a dedicated Kindermusik educator. A private music teacher for the majority of her professional career, Tanya found Kindermusik with her long-time friend Edwina Carter (teacher in Moss Vale) after studying music together at Sydney Conservatorium. They decided to support each other and teach together in the Southern Highlands area of NSW. 
Verna Hewitt lives in Cooroy in the beautiful hinterland of Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. Born and raised in Brisbane, she moved to the Sunshine Coast in 2007 with her husband and two children, Kyle (7) and Lauren (4), where they are enjoying a “tree change”. 
Tina is a mother, teacher and performer. Having graduated from both Wollongong University (Bachelor of Creative Arts), The Sydney Conservatorium of Music (Diploma of Operatic Arts, Master of Performance) as well as holding a TEFL certificate from The English Language Centre in London, Tina’s musical and teaching background is vast. 
A singer and pianist for most of her life, Simone Melder of South Melbourne was taught music by her mother at a very young age. Now on the mature side of life, Simone is an educator who brings with her a lifetime of musical appreciation and an endearing love for children. 
Judith Hulson-Calvert was born and raised in South Wales (a very musical country!), U.K. At the tender age of 4, her preschool teacher suggested to her mother that she had a “musical” ear and should consider piano lessons. Judith completed her Grade 8 piano and theory of Music with the Royal Schools of Music and became an Associate of the London College of Music in 1981. Judith also completed a BA in German and Modern Literature at the University of East Anglia, Norwich, U.K. in 1984. 
acoustic band called “The Housework can Wait”, which support many women's causes on the Central Coast.
My interest in teaching young children music began when as a young mother of four children I realised the importance of music and movement to the overall development of the child. I began my professional teaching career more than 30 years ago as a high school music teacher and once I became a mum my focus shifted to the early childhood sector and primary school teaching. As well as teaching music in the classroom I taught music privately in my own studio, offering piano, singing, guitar, group keyboard and recorder tuition for children and adults. Prior to Kindermusik I developed my own program and offered “Music Kinder” for preschoolers. 
When Joanne moved from Mackay to Brisbane in 2000, she never contemplated she would find the job of her dreams. Today Joanne owns and runs East Coast Music which offers the popular Kindermusik program for children aged 0-7 years. 
For long-time Bundaberg resident, Eunice Beyer, teaching Kindermusik is an experience like no other. A mother of three and a grandmother of two, Eunice’s love of children and delight in their learning was the inspiration she needed to begin her Kindermuisk journey. During her childhood growing up in Bundaberg, music was always part of her environment. 
As a Kindermusik educator, Carolyn Clingan is living her dream – in a job where she has the opportunity to introduce children to the joy and fun of music and dance in each class. 
Expanding on a job she loved was one of the reasons Janelle Dougherty became a Kindermusik educator, and now she is proud to say she has the best job in the world!