DISCOVER the Joy of Music at OUR Award Winning MUSIC School

MANAGING DIRECTOR AND FOUNDER

Eliette began writing music from the age of 9 and at 17 was placed in the top 50 of the Play It Strange songwriting competition in New Zealand with her song “Believe”.

After high school she attended the Australian Institute of Music, graduating with her Bachelors of Contemporary Performance, majoring in Vocals and released her first EP “Black Kisses”.

In 2016 Eliette opened “Eliette’s Music Academy and in 2018 she launched The Green Room Charitable trust - a music programme supporting youth struggling with mental health - which earned her a “Local Hero” award in 2019 from Kiwi Banks' New Zealander of the Year Awards.

DIRECTOR (HOD Drums)

EMA Grafton and Botany is managed by Nick Douch, drummer of kiwi rock band Ekko Park. They have been a forerunner in the NZ music scene for the past 10 years and have released 3 albums, playing in hundreds of shows throughout New Zealand, Australia, UK and Europe.

Nick was self taught for the first 8 years of his childhood, building a drum kit from pillows. After graduating high school, he continued his passion for drums at WINTEC, Hamilton, completing a Bachelor of Music.

From the very beginning it was his goal to one day be the drummer in a band, and while now actively doing this, he wants to encourage and inspire young musicians to follow their dreams through EMA.

PIANO, DRUMS, GUITAR AND BASS (HOD Guitar)

Marcella picked up a guitar when she was aged 12 and instantly fell in love with the instrument. An obsession that grew from an early age, she decided to pursue her love of music. She began studying a Bachelor of Musical Arts at Music and Audio Institute of New Zealand in 2020 where she began to learn how to write songs and apply techniques learned on guitar to songwriting. Being at MAINZ has also given her the opportunity to play in different bands and be involved in recording sessions.

Being constantly exposed to more music, Marcella takes influence from jazz, R&B, pop, k-pop, and funk. She has recently started experimenting with the more production side part of songwriting and is constantly songwriting with other musicians. Marcella has also been involved with different bands playing gigs spanning from weddings to the Auckland Arts Festival.

MUSIC RHAPSODY

With over 5 years of experience in the music industry, Cody is a dedicated music educator who blends creativity with a passion for teaching.

A seasoned performer, composer, and producer, Cody has worked across various genres, including pop, rock, singer-songwriter and indie pop. Cody is the lead singer of her band Mind Goblin and has been working with her band for over 3 years.

Known for a student-centered approach, Cody is committed to fostering creativity and having fun in each lesson.

DRUMS

Jackson Boswell is an accomplished drummer, singer multi-instrumentalist.

Jackson plays drums in indie pop group Borderline who have performed at festivals and venues around New Zealand. Their debut single “Spinning” reached number 6 on the Hot NZ Singles Chart. He is also a session drummer for some of the countries top acts such as Ben and Brody, Avya, Benjamin Mack, Crystal Chen, YAHYAH & Balu Brigada. He has also released music as a solo artist which has received radio play.

Jackson is a well established drummer, artist and session musician with the skills and expertise to inspire and teach students of all ages.

GUITAR, SINGING, BAND

Joel is the lead vocalist, rhythm guitarist and songwriter with “The Birds”, who released their debut EP in 2024. He also enjoys playing in a jazz combo, Big Band and as a solo and duo artist.

He is currently studying for a Bachelor of Music / Bachelor of Arts Conjoint Degree at the University of Auckland. He previously completed the Rockschool curriculum (RSL) for electric guitar and has been awarded NZQA Scholarship in Music and Excellence Endorsement in NCEA Level 3 Music.

Joel is passionate about music and performing arts, and he enjoys sharing his love of music with others through performing, mentoring and teaching.

DRUMS

Throughout his time at Intermediate and High School, he has played in several bands which allowed him to learn many more skills both on and off the kit. These opportunities have led Elliott to be able to play alongside a large variety of both local and international acts at a range of different music venues across Aotearoa.

Some of his favorite experiences include multiple shows at The Tuning Fork, Big Fan, and a tour that saw him playing at gorgeous Whitianga and Waihi Beach.

He is currently the drummer for ‘Emerson’, Winners of the Solo-Duo category at Smokefree Rockquest. Elliott is very passionate about passing his EMA learnings on to aspiring young drummers and watching them develop like he did.

SINGING, GUITAR AND CHOIR

Chris Dent is an award winning songwriter and teacher based in Auckland, New Zealand who is excited to join the team at Eliette’s Music Academy. His flagship band Albi & The Wolves won the Aotearoa Music Award in 2018 for their second album One Eye Open and he’s spent years touring New Zealand and Australia with his act. He is the lead vocalist and plays guitar in the band.

The act is renowned for their live performances and has played at WOMAD NZ, Woodford Folk Festival (AUS), and many more weird and wonderful places in between festival outings, including trips to Rarotonga and Stewart Island. Chris front’s the band and he’s eager to share stagecraft with students as well as developing their musical and songwriting skills.

He teachers the Speech Level Singing style.

PIANO, DRUMS, GUITARS, BANDS

Noah's journey as a musician began at the tender age of 6 when he first picked up a guitar. By his early teens, Noah had immersed himself in the world of music, developing a strong obsession with songwriting, performing, and recording.

Today, Noah is focused on making a significant impact in the music industry, both as an artist and a songwriter. Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Popular Music at the University of Auckland, he is broadening his musical horizons by exploring various styles and techniques.

SINGING (HOD Vocals)

Lisa has been singing up her own tunes from a young age and after getting her first guitar in primary school she would play and sing most days, learning and embracing the joy of music.

High-school is where she really found a passion for writing her own originals and has been in pursuit of a full time music career in the industry ever since.

“Music creation is such a huge part of who I am, I find listening to lyrics fascinating. I’m always intrigued and engaged in what a writer is trying to say and how they piece the puzzle of their song together. I love the idea of being able to help others find their own niche for song writing”

Lisa is eager to help others discover and explore their own passion for music.

SINGING, GUITAR AND PRODUCTION

Pratyul is a music producer and film maker professional. Originally a street performer, Pratyul graduated college with a Bachelors degree in computer engineering, studied a diploma in music production and then completed his Masters in audio engineering from the Film and television institute on India, Pune, which is the most prestigious film making and audio school in India.

Pratyul’s song and ‘Baadshah” was released by T-Series India which is one of the world’s biggest Youtube channels. The music video has over 2 million views and continue to rise in popularity.

Pratyul’s sound takes inspiration from folk, rap, ambient rock and LoFi electronic ballads.

HOD PRESCHOOL MUSIC, SINGING AND GUITAR

Ariel is a singer/songwriter from Tāmaki Makaurau. Having sung and played guitar from a young age, she now releases and performs original songs under the artist name arielwose. 

She has completed her Bachelor of Music degree (2023) and her Postgraduate Diploma in Music (2024).

Over the years, Ariel has been awarded the Rockquest 2019 North Shore Heat: ‘Best Song’ award and the ‘APRA Lyric Award’. In the 2018 NZ Ukulele Trust Uke Can Do It competition, she won 2nd Place for her original composition ‘her’, and In the 2019 NZ Ukulele Trust Uke Can Do It competition, she won 3rd place for her song ‘in their eyes’. This song is inspiring her most recent and biggest project to date, an EP titled ‘in their eyes’. She has currently released two singles from the EP, ‘in their eyes’ and ‘child’. These songs feature an indie/rock 90s inspired sound, heavily influenced by her love for female rock. 

Ariel has a passion for helping young musicians become more confident in their musical abilities and develop their own unique sound! 

CHOIRS, VOCALS, DRUMS AND GUITARS

With a diploma in Music from MAINZ Polytechnic and over 15 years of experience as a full-time working musician, Josh Leys brings a wealth of expertise to the table.

Having performed in approximately 2400 shows, Josh has had some incredible moments, such as headlining a music festival in Amsterdam for a crowd of 25,000 or entertaining 45,000 people in Dubai after the rugby 7s.

One of his most cherished memories is playing and singing with his twin daughters at Christmas in the park last year. Whether it's singing or playing in a band, Josh is passionate about sharing his knowledge and helping students dive into music, while also building their confidence on any instrument they choose.

BANDS, GUITARS, DRUMS

Daniel is a passionate Kiwi musician with years of experience playing bass, guitar, and drums. His musical journey has led him to perform live at various venues, collaborate with other artists, record original music, and be an integral part of several bands, exploring a wide range of genres such as rock, pop, jazz, and more.

As a dedicated music teacher, Daniel has had the pleasure of working with a diverse range of students, from beginners to more advanced musicians. He prides himself on his ability to adapt his teaching style to each student's learning needs, helping them uncover their potential and enjoy the process of musical discovery.

Daniel believes that every student possesses musical potential, and he finds it immensely rewarding to guide them on their personal musical journeys.

PIANO

Born and raised in Malaysia, Laby began their musical journey at the age of five with classical piano training. This early foundation sparked a lifelong passion for music, eventually leading them to pursue formal studies in contemporary music. In 2009, they graduated with a Bachelor of Contemporary Music (Hons.), marking the beginning of their professional career in music education.

Since then, Laby has been dedicated to teaching piano, music theory, composition, and arrangement. With a versatile background spanning pop, jazz, classical, and Latin genres, they have guided students through examination preparation as well as supported those learning music for personal enjoyment.

Beyond the world of music, Laby enjoys baking, gaming, and gardening—creative outlets that complement their artistic and nurturing approach to teaching.

PIANO (HOD Piano)

Agustina was born in Argentina, where she started studying music at the age of 5. Back home, she attended a primary and secondary school where she would learn about music theory and sing as part of a choir every single day.

At 8 years old, she started playing piano at the Higher Conservatory of Music “Felix T. Garzon”, where she obtained her Piano Degree from after studying the instrument for 10 years.

Agustina moved to New Zealand in 2019 to continue her career in piano teaching. With a background in classical as well as contemporary music, she has been teaching the instrument to children and teenagers for a couple of years now, which she considers her true passion.

GUITAR, BASS, DRUMS AND BAND MENTORING

Moses started playing piano at age 8. He was drawn to guitar at ten, and took up bass at 12. He has been a bassist ever since.

Moses spent nine years in the Royal New Zealand Navy Band and has traveled the world backing various artists such as Holly Smith, Frankie Stevens and Annie Crummer.

Since 2015, Moses has toured and performed with Strike Percussion, Hipstamatics, Tommy Nee and many more. With career highlights of performing at major festivals Splore, Soundsplash, Sunsetters, Cuba fest, Fritter fest and all major jazz festivals NZ wide.

Video and audio production is also something Moses enjoys and is proficient in, specialising in Ableton Live, as well as the Adobe ecosystem.

VIOLIN

Kartika is a musician and composer who's musical journey started on Classical Guitar and later ventured on to the violin.

She has her Bachelor of Media Arts in Commercial Music from Wintec.

Apart from teaching, she is an active musician for orchestras and bands, namely Trust Waikato Symphony Orchestra, Hamilton City Pop Orchestra, and she was also involved in the musical productions Sweet Charity, Dogfight, Hood Street and recently Chicago.

Through her Suzuki method training, she is inspired to teach violin to all age groups and make learning music fun.

PIANO, DRUMS, GUITAR

Zylah is a young musician who loves jazz, classical, pop and rock and plays guitar, bass, piano, drums, cello and alto sax.

During her time at Western Springs College, she played in the Auckland Jazz Band and KBB music competitions and was awarded gold with the West City Youth Concert Band in the NZCBA Festival. She was awarded the senior music award at WSC in 2021 and 2022 and the performing arts award in 2023 for her involvement in music and arts in the community.

She has completed ABRSM and Trinity College exams in classical guitar, cello performance and music theory and some of her favourite music memories are from performing at BandQuest and later RockQuest playing drums, bass and guitar across the years. 

DRUMS & GUITARS

Benjamin has been involved in music his whole life and finds it such a privilege to be able to share his passion with all his students.

When he was 19 he moved to Auckland to study at the University of Auckland, where he studied a bachelor of popular music. In his time there he took part in instrumental performance, theory study, production and song writing classes. He’s specialised in drums, piano, guitar, bass, ukulele, violin and brass instrumental performance.

Like many of my students, he grew up playing and working his way through different grades on different instruments, forming bands and enjoying music to fullest. It is now his pleasure to be helping students through that process.

PIANO, VOCALS, SONGWRITING

Born in Nanjing, China, Siche has been learning the piano since 4 years old. Having been apart of the music industry since 2011, he is fluent in various music disciplines including classical, jazz, pop and contemporary, techno, disco and electronic, to name a few. Siche was awarded with an Advanced Certificate in Piano by Trinity Guildhall in 2009 and in 2013 he graduated with a Bachelor Degree in Popular Music from University of Auckland.

Since 2011 Siche has been involved in producing and performing in a Cabaret show live at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and albums for different artists.

Through Siche’s teaching he has been able to help his students achieve Merit and Distinction in ABRSM grade and music theory exams. He looks forward to continuing to grow his students music analytical skills, learn how music works and expand their musical vocabulary and expressions.

VIOLIN AND VOCALS

Calli is an accomplished violinist with over fifteen years of experience, starting lessons at age three through the Suzuki method, recently completing Book Ten.

Currently, Calli plays first violin with the Auckland Youth Orchestra, and has been a member from 2022.

Aside from Violin, Calli began her study in piano from the age of 7, guitar from age 10, and has taken voice lessons since she was 15.

With extensive performance experience and a deep passion for teaching, Calli is committed to inspiring students, building their technical skills, musical expression, and love for music.

VOCALS, SONGWRITING AND MUSIC PRODUCTION

Tali is a multi award winning musician, hailing from Aotearoa, New Zealand. 

She is known internationally for her groundbreaking achievements in the Electronic music scene, most notably within Drum & Bass as a vocalist and freestyle MC. 

In her 25 year career, Tali has released eight studio albums, two EPs and countless singles and collaborations. Her LP 'Love & Migration' earned her 'Best Electronic Artist' at the New Zealand Music Awards in 2019.

Tali is also a classically trained singer and pianist, and as well as working with her own live band, she has performed live with several of New Zealand's most prestigious orchestras.

DRUMS

Since finishing his studies at Auckland University(Bmus Jazz). Adam has played and recorded with artists such as Gin Wigmore, Teeks, Ladyhawke, Aaradhna, The Beths, Troy Roberts, Skilaa, Bailey Wiley, Cassie Henderson, Jesse Sheehan, Lydia Cole, Batucada Sound Machine, Nathan Haines, Aiden Fine, Jeremy Redmore, Eden Mulholland, Crystal Chen, Emily Muli, Joseph & Maia and many more. 

As an in demand session musician he has toured locally and internationally with popular musicals, Jersey Boys, Matilda, Joseph & The Technicolor Dream-coat, Les Miserables, Peter & The Wolf and Billy Elliot. Adam has also been a regular on TV shows including The Jono & Ben Show, X Factor, Dancing With Stars and Pop Stars.

PIANO

Jimmy Wang is a composer, songwriter, producer, clarinetist, music director. He is also a doctoral candidate in the Music School at the University of Auckland, where he is advancing his research in musical composition and related fields. His expertise lies in musical composition, clarinet, piano improvisation, music production, and musical theory.

Jimmy has been commissioned by multiple professional ensembles and has held personal composition recitals. His works have been performed in countries such as China, Poland, and the United States.

Jimmy works with students of all ages, offering a teaching style that is relaxed, engaging, and example-driven. He believes in hands-on practice, allowing students to explore and develop their creativity. He is committed to passing on his knowledge to others and using music to make the world a better place.

OFFICE

Olive Mortimer, a 19-year-old musician, has been passionate about music since early childhood. As a toddler, she would sing at every opportunity, and by the age of nine, she had begun learning the guitar. As soon as she could play four chords, she started writing her own songs.

Her love for songwriting and performing continued to grow as she took up busking, competitive dancing, and performing in numerous musicals. During high school, she participated in Play It Strange songwriting competitions, resulting in three of her songs being recorded through the organization. She has since released an EP on Spotify and aims to keep creating music and performing live.

DRUMS, GUITAR, VOCALS

George started his instrumental journey (after having been singing since a young age) on the drums, and moved quickly on to the guitar and bass.

He plays in a multitude of bands, with his main one being a local indie band called ‘Pat’s Cave’ who actively perform around Auckland! He has also done session work for multiple artists in the studio and at live gigs playing bass and guitar.

George spends hours trying to better his work in music production in the studio, he also produces for his own bands and various other local artists.

GUITARS AND BANDS

Caleb is a second-year Bachelor of Music student at the University of Auckland, majoring in Jazz.

As the lead guitarist for Auckland-based band Fan Club, Caleb thrives in the live music scene. The band has had the opportunity to open for notable acts like Ekko Park, Park Rd, and Coast Arcade. Caleb is passionate about crafting infectious guitar riffs and pushing creative boundaries during performances.

Beyond his band work, Caleb has had the chance to step in as a session musician for bands like the Dawns, even performing with them as an opener for The Beths, a career highlight so far.

GUITAR, BASS, DRUMS, BANDS

Originally from Nelson, Jack started learning guitar at age 10 and quickly became a confident player, earning an endorsement from guitar brand ‘Ernie Ball’ at age 16. A multi-instrumentalist, he has performed in numerous bands as a guitarist, bassist or drummer and has skills in both songwriting and performance.

Jack began teaching guitar throughout his high-school years, as well as cultivating a passion for studio recording and production. He then went on to study ’Commercial Music.’ at Massey University.

He has since gone on to tour New Zealand as a member of bands Grip-Tape, PAPERCITY and Shuv-It and regularly collaborates with other artists as a writer and producer

GUITARS

Billy is an accomplished electric bass and guitar player who has been performing for the better portion of his life across many different bands of differing styles and genres, but primarily jazz and rock/metal bands, as well as musical theatre bands.

Billy is the bass player for the award winning Jazz Combo "The Black Swans" who have won gold at Tauranga Jazz Festival 2025 and on top of that winning best original composition in the combo category twice for the first time in the competition. 

Billy is super passionate about music and performing and enjoys sharing the love of music with others around him through experience, performing, and teaching.

OFFICE MANAGER

Hannah Morrell is originally from Tasmania and now resides in Auckland.  She is a violinist and a songwriter (mainly on banjo), and has toured Australasia and Europe many times over the past 15 years in folk, punk, and folk-punk bands. She has also been involved in the organisation of festivals in Tasmania, especially in the folk-punk scene.  In New Zealand she can be found playing violin for many outfits, including Fables and Greata O’Leary, or playing as her solo folky/bluegrass project. 

She is very excited to be joining Eliette’s Music Academy in the administration team and can’t wait to meet you all as you move through your own musical journeys

OFFICE - BOTANY

Hayley is currently studying architecture at Unitec. Outside of her studies, she’s a surf lifesaver and loves spending time at the beach. She’s been involved in several choirs over the years and has recently started learning the saxophone. She’s really excited to be part of the team and looks forward to meeting everyone and helping out around the office on Saturdays!

PIANO, GUITARS, VOCALS, PRESCHOOL MUSIC

Meryll began performing at the age of six, winning a school talent competition placing 3rd. She Placed second in Starlight, a talent competition, and, In 2020, she was named, The Grand Final Winner, placing first in the solo category of the “New Found Sound, Raise Up” competition.

She plays piano, ukulele and guitar, often jamming with her musical family and enjoys singing, and writing original songs that reflect her heart and heritage.

Meryll is absolutely ecstatic to join Elliot’s Music Academy, where she looks forward to growing further as a performer, teaching kids, and inspiring the next generation to discover the joy and power of music.

VIOLIN

Bella began studying violin at age eight at the Waikato Community School of Music, later returning as a teacher. She served as concertmaster, supported administration, taught classes, and performed at events.

In high school, she played with the Youth Orchestra Waikato, attended NZSO workshops, and excelled in Trinity College London exams.

While completing a business degree, she studied violin with Lara Hall and voice as electives. Bella later earned a Postgraduate Certificate in Music, during which she undertook composition studies. Her work was recognised with second place in the Lilburn Composers Competition at the University of Waikato.

VOCALS, MUSIC RHAPSODY

Leigh is a singer-songwriter whose passion for music began at the age of five, when she started piano and vocal lessons. She wrote her first song shortly after and has been immersed in music ever since. During high school, Leigh became an active part of the local music scene, earning recognition in national competitions such as Rockquest, New Found Sound, and the NZSO Young Artists Showcase—where she had the unique opportunity to perform an original composition alongside the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra.

Leigh is also making waves as a vocalist in Where’s Jai, a professional touring band whose music has reached over 2 million streams. Whether she’s writing songs in her bedroom, performing on stage, or inspiring others through teaching, Leigh is deeply committed to her craft and looks forward to continuing her growth within the Academy

VOCALS AND GUITAR

With over 10 years of experience as a performer and working musician, James brings real world, hands on insight to his teaching.

Having performed in a range of bands and worked as a session vocalist for the past decade, James understands the demands of the music industry. His approach emphasises vocal health and longevity, treating singing as a way of life rather than just a skill.

James also writes and releases original music and is passionate about mentoring the next generation of musicians. He helps students understand the songwriting process, develop collaboration skills, and build the confidence and tools they need to reach their full potential.

PIANO, VOCALS, GUITAR, BANDS, DRUMS

Leo is a songwriter, singer and guitar player in touring band Park Rd. 

Leo has a love for music and music production that started at a young age exploring with Garageband and any instrument he could get his hands on.

Leo hopes to inspire the future generation of musicians coming out of Aotearoa through teaching at Eliette’s Music Academy. 

Most of all, Leo thinks music should be fun.

DRUMS

Jack Fawcett is a Scottish percussionist whose career spans classical, contemporary, and commercial music. A former recipient of a Dewar Arts Award -  of which he is now on the board of trustees - he studied at the Royal College of Music in London, where he also received the Wolfson Instrument Foundation Award in recognition of his musical achievements.

Throughout his career, Jack has had the privilege of working with a wide range of artists and productions, including Strictly Come Dancing Live, Disney’s The Lion King musical, Self Esteem, Deep Purple, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Pete Tong, and Everybody’s Talking About Jamie. He has also performed with orchestras such as the London Philharmonia, Auckland Philharmonia, London Contemporary Orchestra, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, and Royal Northern Sinfonia.

In addition to performing, Jack is passionate about sharing his knowledge with others. He has given masterclasses at institutions such as the Royal Northern College of Music, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, Royal Conservatoire of Scotland Junior Department, and the National Youth Percussion Orchestra of Great Britain.

MUSIC RHAPSODY, SAXOPHONE, PIANO

Jenna is a jazz saxophonist from Auckland. Beginning saxophone during high school, Jenna quickly realised she had a passion for jazz, further pursuing this calling at the University of Auckland. Currently, she plays in a number of projects, including the salsa band ‘Grupo Sa-Son,’ the Latin fusion band ‘The Chameleons,’ and the South African jazz project ‘Sounds of the Motherland.’

Over the years, Jenna has been awarded “Most Outstanding Soloist for the Auckland Jazz and Blues Club School Band Competition” (2021), “Best Saxophonist award for the NZSM School Jazz Project” (2021), “Platinum Award for Jazz Combo at Auckland Jazz and Blues Club Competition” (2021), the “Michael Joseph Savage Memorial Scholarship” (2023), and recently earned the title of “KBB Music Jazz Woodwind Player of the Year” (2024).

Jenna has recently completed her Bachelors Degree in Jazz (BMus) at the University of Auckland with first class honours, and intends to continue further study.

Jenna enjoys teaching, and hopes to inspire her same passion in the new generations of musicians to come!

GUITAR AND DRUMS

Coming from an extremely musical family Adam was introduced to the world of music at a very young age. He began building a passion for vocals and instrumentation through church's, family bands, and Māori Waiata/Kapa Haka, providing him with a varying experience of genres and techniques. At 10 years old Adam started learning guitar and quickly developed skills in blues, rock, metal, and later jazz fusion. Through formal study he has since honed his skills in many other instruments such as ukulele, bass, drums, and vocals. He prides himself on his unique knowledge of guitar improvisation, song writing/arrangement, cultural and ethnic music, and rhythmic exercise. His current goal is to inspire people around him to experience the gift of music for themselves.

DRUMS, GUITARS, BAND

Gene is a dedicated and versatile musician with a lifelong passion for music. His journey began at the age of eight when he first picked up the drums, quickly progressing to perform in school ensembles spanning Rock, Jazz, Blues, and Orchestral styles.

As his musicianship developed, Gene also embraced the guitar, broadening his musical range and deepening his understanding of composition and performance. This dual-instrument knowledge has shaped him into a well-rounded artist and educator, capable of connecting with students across a wide variety of genres and skill levels.

Gene is a performing member of the band Where’s Jai, with whom he has played at many of New Zealand’s most iconic venues. The band has enjoyed success both locally and internationally, gaining recognition for their dynamic sound and energetic live shows.

As a teacher, Gene is committed to inspiring students of all ages and abilities. He brings a passionate, supportive approach to his lessons, aiming to instill in each student the same enthusiasm for music that sparked his own journey

OFFICE MANAGER

Jess was born and raised in Austin, Texas, also known as the Live Music Capital of the World.  Austin is also host to SXSW (South by Southwest) and ACL (Austin City Limits), two world famous music festivals, and Jess used to catch the free shows after school and on weekends.  

Jess attended Texas State University and became a high school English teacher, but she decided she wasn’t ready to grow up, so she went to Europe to continue her education.  She got a degree in the humanities in Bremen, Germany, where she met the future father of her children, a man from Auckland, New Zealand.  After her children Jamie and Edie were born, the family moved to Auckland, where she is happily living on the North Shore.

Once in New Zealand, Jess’s penchant for organizing people and things led her to a career in administration, and she has happily come on board to meet all of your administrative needs.  

In true millennial fashion, Jess’s playlist contains everything from classic rock to country to broadway musicals, and she’s thrilled to be surrounded by music at Eliette’s Music Academy.  

DRUMS

Branden first started playing drums at the age of 14, after choosing music as a subject in his second year of high school. Drawn to the drums more than any other instrument, he enjoyed watching his own progress and development over time. Throughout high school, he played in bands and took part in music competitions, which is where he first began learning how to write songs. While his main passion was rock music, he also learned to play a wide range of genres, including pop, reggae, and country.

In 2019, Branden joined his first band that toured and performed around the country. During this time, he gained experience recording in studios, developed his ability to play to a click track, and further honed his songwriting skills. In 2022, he co-founded his current band, The Boondocks. Since then, he has toured extensively across both the North and South Islands, performed at festivals such as Meatstock and Soundsplash, and recorded drums for both an EP and a full-length album.

SINGING AND MUSICAL THEATRE

Lexie is a current Bachelor of Music & Bachelor of Arts conjoint, Jazz & Drama student at the University of Auckland.

In terms of music, she is a vocalist first and specialises in Jazz and Musical Theatre singing, often engaging in theatre productions around Auckland outside of her studies.

She also performs with her respective funk & jazz bands in regular gigs around central Auckland.

She started dance lessons at a very young age; acting and singing lessons followed soon after, and she has had a passion for the performing arts ever since.