Tarquin Nielsen

Career Objective
Aspiring drum teacher and performer with over 17 years of drumming experience, a strong background in jazz and contemporary styles, and proven skills in performance, leadership, and teaching Passionate about inspiring and developing young musicians through engaging, structured, and creative lessons

Musical Experience

Drummer & Band Leader
Various School Ensembles & Community Bands

• Began playing drums at 18 months old, developing strong rhythmic skills from an early age
• Lead drummer and band leader for the school Senior Small Jazz Combo, regularly performing at community functions and events
• Member of three school bands: Senior Concert Band, Senior Big Band, and Senior Small Jazz Combo
• Drummer and vocalist for local church worship team, performing weekly and for special services

Jazz & Performance Achievements

• Generations in Jazz Festival:
  Awarded Division 1 Superband selection
  Achieved 4th place nationally for two consecutive years
• Warrandyte Jazz Festival:
  Selected and performed with ensembles at the festival twice
• Active participant in community Big Bands outside of school

Awards & Recognition

• School Musician of the Year Award — awarded for excellence in performance, leadership, and contribution to the school music program

Education & Qualifications

Associate Diploma of Teaching (Drums) — In Progress
St Cecilia School of Music

• Developing teaching fundamentals and pedagogical skills
• Completed structured lesson planning for Preliminary through Grade 4 drummers
• Gained practical experience teaching younger students at school

Associate Diploma of Performance (Drums) — Completion expected next semester
St Cecilia School of Music

• Extending advanced performance technique and musicality
• Focusing on stylistic versatility and technical mastery

Grade 8 Drum Kit Exam — Completed

Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) Music Performance — Completed

• Year 12 Music Performance program completed with distinction

Teaching Experience

Drum Teacher (Volunteer)

• Designed and delivered individual drum lessons for younger students
• Applied structured lesson planning and adapted material to suit each student’s level and learning style
• Focused on technique, reading, musicality, and confidence building

Skills

• Advanced proficiency in jazz, rock, pop, and contemporary drumming
• Ensemble leadership and musical direction
• Lesson planning and curriculum development
• Experience teaching beginners to intermediate students
• Strong aural skills, rhythm reading, and improvisation
• Vocal performance and ensemble singing

Personal Statement

• I am deeply passionate about both performance and education in music My goal is to inspire and guide the next generation of drummers through thoughtful, engaging lessons while continuing to perform across a wide range of genres and settings I bring a strong work ethic, leadership, and a lifelong love of music to every opportunity