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. In 2015 she graduated with her Bachelors of Contemporary Performance, majoring in Vocals and released her first EP “Black Kisses”.

In 2016 Eliette opened “Eliette’s Music Academy’ in Auckland and over 8 years has quickly grown to 20+ teachers and hundreds of students.

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 OF GRAFTON CAMPUS (HOD Drums)

EMA Grafton 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.

In 2017 Nick joined Eliette’s Music Academy teaching drums and band programmes.

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.

MUSICAL THEATRE AND SINGING

Grace, a passionate performer immersed in the world of musical theatre since the age of 8, has cultivated a rich background both on and behind the stage. As a singer of the verified Spotify band 'Where’s Jai,' she has played a pivotal role in the group's triumph, contributing to a single titled 'Perfect Crime' that has garnered nearly 1 million streams.

Beyond her success in the music industry, Grace is driven by a deep passion for the arts and is dedicated to sharing her love and knowledge to aspiring performers as a music and performing arts teacher.

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.

Cody has experience in early childhood music education. She specialises in fostering a love for music in young learners through playful, engaging, and developmentally appropriate activities.

Their classes focus on rhythm, movement, and basic musical concepts, designed to nurture creativity and build a strong musical foundation from an early age. 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 an accomplished guitarist and singer and enjoys performing across a wide range of musical genres such as classic rock/pop, jazz/blues and musical theatre. 

He 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 has been successful in music competitions like Smokefree Rock Quest, Play It Strange, National Youth Jazz Festival, KBB Music Festival, Auckland Jazz Festival and the National Shakespeare Festival.

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. His passion for playing drums and collaborating with other musicians has even allowed him to be a part of other opportunities such as drumming in video advertisements for Fletcher Living and lighting company Viltrox.

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.

DRUMS AND GUITAR

Travis is a multi-instrumentalist musician and music producer originally from the Hawkes Bay region. Since moving to Auckland 10 years ago he has completed qualifications in a Bachelor of Musical Arts at MAINZ and a Diploma in Audio Production at SAE. He has around 2 years teaching experience on the Drums and Guitar working at numerous institutions around Auckland. When he is not teaching, he's frequently touring with numerous bands and solo artists from all around the country as well as working on recording, mixing and producing music from a home studio based in West Auckland.

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.

GUITAR AND VOCALS

Joshua was a Member of the Aotea Youth Symphony and St Domonic’s Orchestra playing violin, electric guitar, flute and vocals for many years. Has played in concert bands and jazz bands around Auckland and is a part of a Sinolug dance group which travelled to the Philippines in 2020 to compete in the Sinolug Festival.

He started playing the violin at the age of 5, vocals at 7, and guitar at 10.

Currently, completing his Bachelor of Music Degree, majoring in popular music at the University of Auckland. He won 1st place in Panmure Idol and Buddy Buskers Festival, 2nd place in Huapai's Got Talent and played Troy (lead role) in High School Music (graduating year)

With his talent and passion for music, he's confident that he can make a positive impact on the music world and the lives of many aspiring musicians.

PIANO, DRUMS, GUITARS, BANDS

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

Noah spent countless hours perfecting his guitar skills, experimenting with different genres, and writing original songs that reflected his evolving perspective on life. His performances became an outlet for self-expression, and his recordings allowed him to capture the emotions and stories he wanted to share with the world.

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. Growing up in India and now residing in Auckland, Pratyul uncovered his passion for music and film making during his schooling days.

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.

PRESCHOOL MUSIC, SINGING AND GUITAR

Ariel is a singer/songwriter from Auckland. Having sung and played guitar from a young age, she writes and performs originals under arielwose.

Over the years she has been awarded the "APRA Lyric Writers Award" Regional Final (2019), won "Best Song" at the Smoke Free Rock Quest (2019), and placed 3rd in the NZ Ukulele Trust for her original "In Their Eyes" and a the Highly Commended Award for her song "Her".

She completed her Bachelors Degree in Pop Music (BMus) at Auckland University.

Ariel has a passion for helping younger musicians become confident in their 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. She is passionate about songwriting, production and performance, and will be joining EMA to teach drums, keyboard and guitar.

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.

He’s currently heavily involved in multiple bands, both doing live performances and recording sessions.

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.

PIANO, VIOLIN, GUITAR

Edward started his music journey from the age of 6 and plays the violin, piano, and guitar as his main instruments. Music has always been a part of his life and follows him wherever he goes. 

He graduated from the University of Auckland with a Bachelor of Music in Classical Violin Performance. During his time at university he developed a passion for music education and sharing his love for music with others. He is always on the lookout for innovative methods to apply to his lessons and strongly believes that every person is able to learn music.

Edward also writes and produces music on a regular basis and draws from his experience with a wide range of instruments, music styles, and genres. Creating music is one of the best forms of self expression and he encourages students to explore and discover their own music style.

OFFICE MANAGER

Moving from London to Auckland at a very young age, Joanne found comfort in music. She has been in various music lessons ever since and eventually found her way to Eliette’s Music Academy. Having left Eliette’s to study at MAINZ in 2018, coming back to work here is a full circle moment.

She plays guitar, ukulele, and banjo - with the biggest passion being for songwriting. Drawing inspiration from her love of sad indie-pop; artists by the likes of Phoebe Bridgers, Julia Jacklin, and Noah Khan keep her songwriting brain working overdrive.

She is so psyched to be here and is looking forward to what the coming year with EMA will bring.

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. She has been a dedicated performer in various ensembles, including serving as a member and later Concert Master of the North Shore Junior Orchestra.

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

Adam Tobeck is well known as a musician with both a deep knowledge of his craft and versatility that sees him seemlessly transition from traditional jazz to progressive rock and everything in between.

Since finishing his studies at Auckland University(Bmus Jazz) he 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.

PIANO, SINGING, GUITARS, BANDS

Will is a jazz and contemporary vocalist, songwriter, and producer based in Auckland. With a background in choral music and classical piano, he has developed into a versatile performer and composer, passionate about both contemporary and jazz music, as well as vocal coaching.

A graduate of Burnside High School's Specialist Music Programme in Christchurch, Will further honed his craft with two summer semesters at Berklee College of Music in Boston. He has also earned his Grade 8 vocal certification from Trinity College London and his Grade 6 piano certification from ABRSM.

As a vocalist, Will has performed at prominent events such as Auckland’s Coca-Cola Christmas in the Park, the All-Star Big Band Festival, and numerous competitions and ensemble performances.

GUITAR, DRUMS, BANDS, VOCALS

Tyler has loved playing music since he picked up a guitar at the age of ten.

He records guitar and performs vocals in the band Synthesis of Self, with whom he has released two EPs.

Tyler has been expanding his musical horizons as he works towards completing his Bachelor of Music in Jazz Performance at the University of Auckland.

Similarly, electronic music has taken his interest over the past couple years and he has begun working to build his skills as a music producer and DJ.

Tyler's music teachers have been very formative people in his life, and he cherishes the time he spent with them and what they taught him. He tries to bring the same passion they did to inspire the next generation of musicians by keeping music fun and engaging.

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.

In addition to her musical pursuits, she has a passion for teaching and has shared her knowledge both overseas in America and at Eliettes.

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. His studies have sharpened his guitar technique and deepened his theoretical understanding of music. An enjoyer of all forms of music, with a soft spot for alternative rock.

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

PIANO, GUITAR, BANDS, DRUMS

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

As well as releasing their debut album, ‘The Novel’ last year, Park Rd has played at festivals such as Electric Avenue, Homegrown, Rhythm and Vines and SoundSplash and have showcased internationally at SXSW Sydney and toured around Australia multiple times in the last couple of years. 

Leo has a love for music and music production that started as a young boy messing about with Garageband and pretty much any instrument he could get his hands on.

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

Most of all he thinks music should be fun.

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!

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.

Her musical interests expanded to voice and composition, which she pursued throughout secondary and tertiary education. 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.

Now based in Auckland’s CBD, Bella continues to integrate music into her life and looks forward to new creative opportunities ahead.

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

James Moore is a dedicated singer and guitarist, specialising in contemporary vocals and lead guitar, with a deep love for songwriting. With over 10 years of experience as a performer and working musician, he 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.