Narelle Whitla
Edmonton,QLD
Summary
Dynamic music educator with a proven track record at Buzz Music School, specialising in advanced music theory and performance techniques. Successfully developed personalised lesson plans that have enhanced student engagement and confidence, while fostering collaborative learning environments that aim to inspire a lifelong love for music. Passionate about integrating music technology to enrich instruction and prepare students for successful performances.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Private Music Tutor
Buzz Music School
02.2020 - Current
- Developed personalised lesson plans tailored to individual student needs and learning styles.
- Assisted students in mastering musical concepts through engaging instructional techniques.
- Utilised various teaching tools and resources to enhance student understanding of music theory.
- Fostered a positive learning environment that encouraged student participation and creativity.
- Collaborated with parents to track student progress and adjust lessons as necessary.
- Introduced diverse musical genres to broaden students' appreciation for music.
- Adapted teaching methods based on feedback to ensure effective learning outcomes for all students.
- Developed strong rapport with students to foster open communication and encourage progress in their musical journey.
- Assisted advanced-level performers in refining technique through focused instruction on complex pieces and exercises.
- Encouraged regular goal-setting with each student, fostering motivation towards personal achievements.
- Mentored aspiring musicians, providing guidance on career options within the music industry.
- Implemented creative teaching methods to engage students and maintain their interest in learning new material.
- Expanded students knowledge of music theory, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the language of music.
- Prepared students for various performance opportunities, such as recitals, auditions, and competitions, building stage presence and poise.
- Organized group sessions for peer collaboration, enhancing both social skills and musicianship among participants.
- Continuously sought professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in music education, ensuring the highest quality instruction for students.
- Expanded students knowledge of music theory, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the subject matter.
- Cultivated a supportive learning environment where mistakes were viewed as opportunities for growth and improvement.
- Provided resources for self-guided practice outside of lessons, empowering students to take ownership of their learning process.
- Promoted collaboration with fellow musicians by organizing ensemble opportunities, enhancing students abilities to work effectively as part of a team.
- Integrated tools such as metronomes, tuners, and recording devices into lessons to develop essential listening skills for accurate pitch recognition.
- Explained music theory, aural skills and fundamental concepts to teach students to understand, analyse, perform and create music.
- Assisted with performance recitals and concerts to allow students to showcase musical talents.
- Facilitated group music sessions to external clients such as Daycare Groups and Cairns City Council to provide music programs to pre-school aged children
- Facilitated group music sessions to local private schools as part of their vacation care/school holiday programs.
Piano Tutor
MacKillop Catholic College
03.2021 - 11.2024
- Developed effective teaching strategies that improved students musical proficiency and confidence.
- Designed personalised lesson plans to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.
- Assisted with recitals and performances to showcase student achievements and foster community involvement.
- Collaborated with parents to discuss student development and address any concerns or challenges.
- Integrated technology into lessons to enrich the learning experience and facilitate remote tutoring options.
- Prepared students for successful recitals and performances through focused coaching on stage presence, technique, and expression.
- Adapted teaching style according to each students unique personality traits, strengths, weaknesses, ensuring optimal results within diverse groups of learners.
- Continuously expanded personal knowledge of repertoire and pedagogical techniques by attending workshops, conferences, and pursuing professional development opportunities.
- Encouraged peer collaboration by organizing group lessons where students learned from one another experiences and techniques.
- Implemented effective practice techniques that improved efficiency during lessons and encouraged self-directed learning outside of class time.
- Collaborated with fellow music educators to share best practices and continuously improve teaching methods.
- Developed students understanding of music theory through engaging activities and creative approaches to learning concepts.
- Incorporated ear training exercises into lessons to enhance students listening skills and reinforce theoretical concepts.
- Cultivated a love for music in students by incorporating various musical styles, composers, and historical contexts into lessons.
- Promoted a growth mindset in students by providing constructive feedback and celebrating their achievements regularly.
- Maintained accurate records of student attendance and progress reports.
- Developed musical instruction with goal of end-of-term recital performance.
- Prepared over 100+ piano students for showcase performances.
- Audio-recorded performances for playback to help students identify mistakes and areas for improvement.
- Managed classroom behaviour to establish and maintain clear classroom behaviour and discipline expectations.
- Attended concerts and performances to support students and arts community.
- Provided extra help and support to offer additional support to struggling students and encourage success in art subjects.
- Attended department meetings and collaborated with other arts teachers.
- Provided piano accompaniment for the MCC school choir rehearsals, and also for their Cairns Junior Eisteddfod choir competition.
Education
Theory of Music - Grade Eight - Music - Theory
Trinity College London
Cairns, QLD11-1994
Pianoforte - Grade Six - Music - Practical
Trinity College London
Cairns, QLD05-1992
Clavinova Teacher Certification - Yamaha Digital Clavinova
Yamaha Music Australia
Cairns, QLD07-2020
Skills
- Piano
- Advanced Music Theory
- Ukulele Workshops
- Performance techniques
- Collaborative learning
- Group teaching
- Music technology integration
- Small group instruction
- Keyboard instruction
- Music History Knowledge
- Ear training techniques
- Performance preparation
Timeline
Piano Tutor
MacKillop Catholic College
03.2021 - 11.2024
Private Music Tutor
Buzz Music School
02.2020 - Current
Theory of Music - Grade Eight - Music - Theory
Trinity College London
Pianoforte - Grade Six - Music - Practical
Trinity College London
Clavinova Teacher Certification - Yamaha Digital Clavinova
Yamaha Music Australia
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