Michelle O.
BA (Mus) W.Aust., LTCL, ALCM
Academy Principal
Piano, Violin & Piano Accompanist
Michelle is an exceptional teacher, known for her sincerity, diligence, and unwavering passion for music, which serves as a constant source of inspiration for both her peers and students.
From the tender age of three, Michelle embarked on her musical journey, attending piano lessons, and later expanding her repertoire by taking up violin lessons at the age of eight. Her dedication paid off when she earned a Distinction in the Associate Music Performance Diploma at the age of 12, followed by another Distinction in the Licentiate Diploma examinations (LTCL) at the remarkable age of 15. This impressive achievement led her to secure a coveted place at Wells Cathedral School, a renowned specialist music school in the United Kingdom, after successfully auditioning.
During her time in Somerset, England, Michelle discovered her deep passion for Baroque and Classical music, which became the foundation of her extensive repertoire. Under the guidance of her esteemed piano mentor, Assistant Professor Graeme Gilling, she honed her skills and developed a profound appreciation for genuine playing techniques, musical knowledge, and interpretation skills, embracing the essence of being a true Classical musician.
Michelle's dedication to her musical education led her to pursue a double-major music degree at the prestigious Conservatorium of Music, University of Western Australia. While teaching remains her primary focus, Michelle's active musical life extends beyond the classroom as she thrives as a soloist and chamber musician, nurturing her artistic expression.
At the age of 18, Michelle embarked on her teaching journey, then founding the highly successful Crescendo Academy of Music in Perth, Western Australia at the age of 20. Currently boasting an enrolment of 370 students in 2024, Michelle holds the position of academy principal. She also conducts the academy's string ensembles and symphony orchestra for their annual music concerts. In addition, Michelle shares her expertise with students from renowned private schools in Perth, including Kennedy Baptist College, enriching the education of secondary school students.
With her remarkable accomplishments and comprehensive musical background, Michelle is a truly exceptional teacher, dedicated to imparting genuine playing techniques, musical knowledge, and interpretation skills to her students, while nurturing their musicality and guiding them to become well-rounded Classical musicians.
Jeannie L.
LRSM, LTCL Adv. Cert. (ABRSM), ATCL, AMusTCL
Piano & Music Theory
Ms. Jeannie is an enthusiastic teacher with great passion for music and piano playing, and has more than 25 years of teaching experience. She has successfully completed her ATCL (Teacher’s Diploma), Advanced Certificate (ABRSM), AMusTCL (Associate in Compositional Technique of The Trinity College of Music), LTCL (Teacher’s Diploma), LTCL (Performance), and LRSM (Licentiates of the Royal Schools of Music).
She has also studied with Ms. Bavani Rajah (Principle of Malaysian Academy of Music), Mr. David Gatehouse, (Chief Examiner of Theory, ABRSM), Mr. Loo Bang Hean (Concert Pianist and ABRSM examiner), Kathryn Lye, Dennis Lee (Concert Pianist), Graham Hall and Roy Wilkinson.
Ms. Jeannie teaches students ranging from elementary to Advanced Diploma. Her students have achieved numerous awards, including the coveted Hedy King Robinson Award for Theory of Music examinations (Grades 6 to 8), full marks for Grade 5 Music Theory, and awards for highest score in Practical exams for Grades 5 to 8. Her students were also invited to perform at the annual state high achiever award organised by ABRSM.
She is also a proud mother of three and plays regularly for church and dance studios.
Helena O.
BA (Mus) W.Aust.
Violin
Helena is currently in her third year of a Bachelor of Philosophy (Hons) at UWA, majoring in Music Specialist. During her time at university, she has been mentored by many skilled musicians, and been exposed to a diverse range of teaching methods. Helena was particularly influenced by a masterclass with world-renowned violinist Emily Sun. Helena has also attended several national music programs, including the Australian Youth Orchestra’s National Music Camp, which have further enriched her experiences of music education. Helena has first-hand experience of both Suzuki and AMEB teaching methods.
Helena’s early violin education (beginning at age 4) was through Suzuki lessons and group classes. However, in her later years of schooling, she switched to AMEB and successfully obtained an ‘A’ in both grade 7 and 8 exams. Helena has also completed up to grade 4 AMEB theory, with consecutive High Distinctions.
This year, Helena is the concertmaster of the West Australian Youth Orchestra. She is also an active member of UWA Symphony Orchestra, the Orchestra Collective, Banksia Ensemble, St. George’s College Orchestra, and the recently debuted Apeirogon Ensemble. Helena is particularly passionate about chamber music, and greatly enjoys playing in her UWA string quartet.
Helena is eager to instil her passion for music into younger students.
Isabella B.
BMus (Hons) MMus W.Aust.
Clarinet & Saxophone
Isabella is a current member of WA Youth Orchestra, Kalamunda Youth Swing Band, and Pieria Saxophone Quartet. She has also had many wonderful playing opportunities in various ensembles; WAAPA Symphonic Wind Ensemble, WAAPA Indian Ocean Ensemble, WAAPA Symphony Orchestra, Perth Orchestra Project, ABODA Wind Ensemble, Classic Sounds Orchestra, and Armadale City Concert Band.
Another aspect of her playing belongs as a doubling musician (Eb clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Bb Clarinet, and Bass Clarinet) in productions such as Oliver, The Addams Family, Little Shop of Horrors, and WAAPA’s season of Crazy For You.
Between studying and performing, Isabella loves teaching clarinet and saxophone. She holds AMEB certificates up to Grade 5 Theory, Grade 6 Practice of Music (Saxophone), and Grade 8 Practice of Music (Clarinet). Isabella’s teaching methods revolve around the AMEB syllabus, ear training, technical work, sight reading, improvisation, and core repertoire. She hopes that her students will feel inspired each lesson by the wonders of music.
HaoYi L.
BA Performing Arts (Music)
Piano, Violin, Music Theory, Piano Accompanist
Ms Haoyi possesses a diverse range of pedagogical certifications, reflecting their commitment to early childhood music education. This includes completion of the Australian Kodaly Certificate (Early Childhood Program Level 1) in 2021, as well as certifications in Australian Kodaly Certificate (Music Education Primary Level 1 in 2011), Kindermusik Educator Certificate (2018), Music for Little Mozarts Teacher’s Training Course Level 1-4 (2010), Every Child Sings Kodaly-inspired music program Teacher’s Training Course (2020), and Finger Gym for Piano aged 4 and above Teacher’s Training Course (2020).
Known for their ability to nurture young talents, Ms Haoyi has successfully guided numerous students to merits and distinction grades, primarily within the ABRSM and IMEB boards.
In addition to their teaching prowess, Ms Haoyi is also a published author, having written the acclaimed book *Kalimba for All Ages* in 2008
With a passion for music education and a proven track record of excellence, Ms Haoyi continues to inspire and empower students of all ages to reach their musical potential, enriching their lives through the power of music.
Rachel H.
BA (Hons) W.Aust.
Flute
Rachel is a caring and forward thinking teacher, always aiming to help her students achieve their best results through enjoyment of music and a dedication to practice.
With 10 years of teaching at some of Perth’s most prestigious schools as well as privately, Rachel has great experience in teaching all ages and all genres of music. She is dedicated to finding the most suitable method of learning for each student and modifying lessons based on individual needs. Rachel also has experience in teaching students who have various physical and intellectual disabilities.
As a performer, after graduating from the UWA Conservatorium of music with Honours, she has had the privilege of playing for renowned flutists in masterclasses and private lessons around the world. Her recent studies in England with flutist and pedagogue Trevor Wye have aided her in being comfortable performing in a wide range of genres. Rachel is currently active in performing with local ensembles and orchestras around WA.
Underpinning all of her teaching and performing is the belief that music is a foundation for a full life and changes lives for the better. Rachel aims to help her students find the joy that music can bring to their lives.
Saskia W.
BA (Mus) W.Aust.
Flute & Fife
Saskia is a friendly and detail orientated Flute teacher with a wide variety of musical interests.
In mid 2020 she completed her UWA Music Specialist Degree in Flute Performance, and has been playing the Flute for over 10 years. She has experience teaching students from 5 to over 70, and also in starting young beginners on the Fife. Saskia strongly believes that learning music should be fun, and that this is possible without compromising technique.
Saskia has played in various ensembles around Perth, including with the Perth Orchestra Project, and as a soloist with the St George’s College Chamber Orchestra (Directed by Paul Wright). In 2019, she also performed in a Masterclass with Anna Besson of Nevermind Ensemble (France), and completed the Australian Flute Festival’s Professional Learning Day in Sydney.
Saskia plays a Levit Kingma System Flute – a new model featuring additional keys which allows the instrument to play every quarter tone. In her spare time, she is the Musical Director of the Mockingbirds, an all female a cappella group.
Estelle O.
Piano, Violin, Music Theory & Piano Accompanist
Estelle started pursuing piano and violin studies at the age of four and has developed a passion for music ever since. She has completed all practical piano and music theory examinations with the Associated Board of the Royal School of Music (ABRSM) and violin with Trinity College London. She achieved Distinction in her Grade 8 practical examinations in both piano and violin studies. Besides music teaching, Estelle has completed a Bachelor of Science in Oral Health Therapy at Curtin University and currently also works as a dental therapist.
Estelle's motto for classroom teaching is to make music lessons fun while incorporating musical knowledge, aural skills and theory of music. She teaches students from the age of four, and customises her teaching styles to suit each student. Young beginners enjoy learning with Estelle as she utilises flash cards and fun activities to develop their musical and aural skills.
Estelle has prepared her students as young as the age of 5 to sit for the Australian Music Examinations Board (AMEB) Practical Piano and Violin exams. In 2022, Estelle’s students achieved outstanding results with 5 in 7 achieving Honours or High Distinction in grades ranging from Preliminary to Grade 6.
Miege S.
Piano, Music Theory & Clarinet
Miege is a friendly and outgoing teacher with an aim to bring joy through music. She is passionate about sharing musical education to children and adults of all ages and holds that it is never too late to start your musical journey.
Miege started learning piano at age 6 and clarinet at age 11. She attended John Curtin College of the arts through a scholarship in clarinet and graduated at the top of her cohort in 2020. Undertaking exams with ABRSM for both clarinet and piano, Miege was invited to and performed at multiple high scorers’ concerts for her high distinction results. She also specialises in music theory, having achieved a high distinction with ABRSM theory in 2017.
Shortly after graduating, Miege began teaching full time and has not looked back. Miege has taught in primary schools, after school lessons and privately working with ages pre-kindy to elderly. She completed an act for autism course in 2021 to better understand how to teach autistic children piano and has loved the experience she has gained. Miege believes that building a strong relationship with her students and their parents creates the best support system for musical learning.
Monica B.
BA (Mus) W.Aust.
Viola and Violin
Monica grew up in Albany, Western Australia and attributes a lot of her success to the
opportunities provided to her there; learning violin from the age six and moving to viola as her main instrument at age 13. In Albany, Monica was able to perform with the Albany Sinfonia,
Albany Chamber Orchestra and was able to attend the Quaranup music camp, all of which
inspired her to continue with music as a profession.
Since moving to Perth, Monica has completed her Bachelor of Arts in music studies and music specialist studies, under the tutorship of former ASQ player Sally Boud. Monica has played with
a number of groups in Perth, including spending a year with the WA youth orchestra in 2019.
Monica is passionate about teaching the joys of music to all age groups, she believes in
teaching numerous styles of music to students in order to achieve maximum enjoyment. She
also strongly believes in the social benefits music can have and encourages all her students to play in group settings.
Vincent C.
BMus (Hons) WAAPA
Guitar, Ukulele, Electric bass
Vincent is a jazz guitarist who graduated from Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. During his studies at WAAPA, Vincent was awarded Jazz Honours Award for presenting the best graduation recital amongst his peers. Art magazine Seesaw, describes Vincent’s guitar playing as of “a high level of maturity and technique”, with an “excellent understanding of contemporary improvisational jazz vocabulary”.
Over the past years, Vincent has dazzled audiences in Hong Kong, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth. He had collaborated and performed with a wide range of international and national artists, such as Frank Gambale (USA), Varijashree Venugopal (IN), Barney Mcall (VIC), Danny Susnjar (WA), Jun Kung (HK), Jo Davie (QLD) and Pat Carroll (QLD).
He is currently the guitarist of 2024 Australian National Jazz Orchestra Youth Big Band. The ANJO Youth Big Band will be performing at Sydney Conservatorium Jazz Festival and Perth International Jazz Festival, featuring Grammy-nominated guest artist Remy Le Boeuf.
Apart from being a busy performer, Vincent is also a passionate guitar tutor, who aims to encourage students’ enthusiasm in pursuing music as a hobby or career. Vincent offers guitar and ukulele lessons, covering a wide range of repertoire such as pop, rock, blues, funk, jazz and classical music. Tailor-made music lessons will be designed to match the skill
levels and musical interests of the students.
Lisa S.
AMus.A
Violin
Lisa started learning violin at the age of 4. She graduated Churchlands
Senior High School and won the top instrumentalist prize in year 12, granting her the opportunity to perform in the Perth Convention Centre. Lisa is currently in her third year at the UWA Conservatorium of Music, majoring
in Music Specialist and was awarded the Ann Brett Scholarship.
She has successfully completed her AMusA, as well as winning many first prizes in Eisteddfod competitions. Lisa has been a member of many ensembles and is currently a member of the
JULIMA Trio as well as UWA Symphony Orchestra, St. George’s College Orchestra, the Orchestra Collective and Banksia Ensemble. She was also concertmaster for
the Churchlands Symphony Orchestra, which toured across Europe in 2018.
Callum V.
BPhil (Hons) W. Aust.
Cello
Callum began learning cello at the age of nine and is currently completing his Bachelor of Philosophy at the University of Western Australia, majoring in Music General Studies and Mathematics and Statistics.
Through Callum’s time at UWA, he has gained valuable insight
from experienced mentors and professional musicians. He has studied conducting, musicology, and has been involved in chamber music groups. Callum has also played in several orchestras such as the West Australian Youth Orchestra, and the UWA Symphony orchestra, which has provided him with valuable experience in
orchestral playing in various styles, as well as opportunities to interact with professional players and conductors.
Callum hopes to inspire in his students a love of the cello and music in general.
Rohan F.
Drums WAAPA (ECU)
Drums and Percussion
Rohan’s background as a teacher includes considerable experience in a variety of learning environments, having previously established positions at Sound Centre School of Music and Mega Music Academy over a period of more than 10 years. Rohan is passionate about imparting a well-rounded understanding of musicianship through appreciation of a wide range of material, as well as the importance of working well with others. His teaching method aspires to balance fundamental aspects of reading, technique and groove-based coordination with an inclusive and individualised approach.
Drums and Percussion
Alex Megaw has been teaching drum kit and percussion since 2006. Hecurrently performs and records with Western Australian outfits, The Volcanics,
The Little Lord Street Band, Bradley Hall and the blues/soul group Michael.
Alex started learning the drums when he was nine years old and shortly after,
started learning guitar, French horn and multi-percussion. He has been actively
performing live with several different groups of varying styles since the age of
thirteen. In 2005, he completed an Advanced Diploma of Contemporary Music
at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts.
In the last fifteen years, Alex has performed alongside international and iconic
acts such as New York Dolls, They Might be Giants, Justin Townes Earl, Radio
Birdman, New Christs, Died Pretty, The Saints, Adrian Edmondson’s The Bad
Shepherds, Lee Kernaghan and The Waifs. In 2014, 2015, 2017 and 2019, Alex
travelled with The Volcanics to Europe and performed in Spain, France and
Germany, including a performance on the famous Rockpalast music television
show as part of its crossroads program in Bonn, Germany. In more recent
times, Alex has performed with various acts at the Nannup, Fairbridge, Nukara,
State of the Art, Red Country, Saint Kilda and Big Sound music festivals.
Alex has taught students aged from four to Seventy years old, from beginner to
university level. He runs lessons at the adaptive pace of each student with an
emphasis on building solid timing and musicianship.
Elsabe K.
Violin & Viola
Elsabe is currently a third-year Bachelor of Music student at UWA, studying under the tutorship of Shaun Lee-Chen. She has participated in the Australian Youth Orchestra’s National Music Camp, an enriching experience for someone who grew up in rural Western Australia.
Since moving to Perth, Elsabe has been involved in playing viola in various university ensembles, including quartets and chamber groups. She now leads the viola section in the UWA Symphony Orchestra. Her musical journey began in Albany, where she started playing the violin at the age of 6. Elsabe has been a part of the Albany Chamber Orchestra and the Albany Sinfonia, also serving as concertmaster for several concerts.
Passionate about teaching music, Elsabe loves providing opportunities for others to learn and explore different musical styles.
Saskia R.
BMus (Hons) W.Aust.
Clarinet and Saxophone
Saskia started playing clarinet at the age of eleven and later picked up the saxophone. Her enthusiastic teaching approach aims to foster both joy and genuine interest in music learning.
Saskia has been a member of the West Australian Youth Orchestra from 2018-2020, during which time she had the opportunity to play Bass Clarinet and E Flat Clarinet in an orchestral setting. She has also played in orchestras, trios, musicals and operas during her studies at the
Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA).
In 2021 she completed her Bachelor of Music (Honours) at WAAPA. Saskia aspires to spread the joys of music through her teaching and wedding trio the Amami (Love Me) Ensemble.
Jackson S.
Cert IV (Mus) WAAPA
Guitar, Bass Guitar, Ukulele
Jackson is a proficient and formally trained guitarist with over 12 years of guitar playing and performing experience. He developed a deep passion for music after beginning his guitar journey at the age of eight years old.
During high school, Jackson was chosen by the School Curriculum and Standards Authority to represent an A Grade in year 12 music performance. After completing high school, Jackson attended the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA), graduating with a Certificate IV in Contemporary Music.
During this time, Jackson developed strong improvisational, music theory, and performance knowledge, which he continues to foster and utilise to enrich aspiring music students.
Jackson is also an experienced music teacher, having previously taught students ranging between the ages 4 to 71. Jackson’s main musical influences are blues and rock artists.
Ulani H.
BMus W.Aust.
Cello
Ulani holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Studies at Specialist Music obtained from the
Conservatorium of Music, University of Western Australia. During her time there, she has received tutelage from a range of highly skilled and knowledgeable professional musicians
who has largely inspired her to inspire others on their music journey. Always actively seeking ways to innovate herself, Ulani has undergone the Australian Kodály Certificate Course (Secondary, Level 1) which has influenced the way she approaches instrumental music, incorporating engaging and methodological ways when teaching a concept.
Within the sphere of music, Ulani enjoys playing in a symphony orchestra, as well as in
chamber groups. Most importantly, she loves the community surrounding music and the people who motivate her to become better at music, as well as to become a better person. She is a passionate advocate for the Suzuki philosophy which puts forth the notion that
‘everything depends on the growth of the heart… To foster an active, fine heart is… the crux of [music] education.’
At the forefront of her teaching style is an emphasis on maintaining a healthy wellbeing. This involves teaching healthy habits at the instrument, as well as away from the instrument. Ulani believes that in taking a holistic approach, to develop the whole student, is where real progress occurs.
