Yamaha Celebrates the Exceptional Work of Piano Teachers in Australia
Last week in Melbourne, the music community gathered to honour the 10 recipients of the 2024 Yamaha Piano Teacher Award: Breakout. Special guests and award advocates, Carly McDonald and Nat Bartsch, welcomed the honourees, who were rewarded with an all-expenses-paid trip to Yamaha Headquarters in Melbourne. Over two days, these dedicated piano teachers engaged in unique professional development sessions, led by artists Andrea Keller, Tom Prowse, Carly McDonald, and Tim Minchin.
The Yamaha Breakout Award, an annual award by application, recognises piano teachers actively teaching during the 2023-2024 period. This initiative supports Yamaha's education advocacy program 'Off to a Great Start,' and aligns with the Australian Music Association's goal of increasing music-making participation nationwide.
Yamaha sought Australian piano teachers who demonstrate a strong commitment and passion for music education. Nathan Rippon of Yamaha stated, “Music is widely accepted as a valuable and meaningful part of a child's education. As the largest instrument manufacturer in the world, Yamaha is positioned to lead a conversation around its value.”
Congratulations to this year's recipients:
- Margaret Chalmers QLD
- Rhonda Davidson-Irwin QLD
- Lyndon Ellis TAS
- Gail Godfrey QLD
- Rebecca Guy WA
- Donna Hinkley VIC
- Liane Molewyk WA
- Helen Perris NSW
- Michael Power TAS
- Karyn Skewes SA