I grew up surrounded by music. In Primary School, I had so many musical opportunities, singing, playing the recorder and performing. Music was the heart and soul of the school. At secondary school (high school), the music department was where I belonged. We were so lucky to have a big orchestra, choir, and countless musical opportunities alongside my love of English and History.
I learned to play the clarinet, saxophone and piano, and I even sang in a rock band for a while! I was accepted to read Music at St John's College, Cambridge University. Then I taught clarinet and piano while I trained as a music teacher at Middlesex University. I worked in music schools in the UK for many years, first as a Head of Music in various UK secondary schools and later in a Middle Leadership role running a project linking primary and secondary schools through music projects and events.
Alongside my teaching career, I was lucky enough to develop a new approach for music learning and teaching. I ran a successful teacher training programme working with teachers across the world. In China, I trained instrumental teachers. In the Philippines, I supported teachers on a Rock and Pop programme.
In Australia, UK, the USA, New Zealand and Singapore, I ran workshops for teachers in government schools. Since 2016, I have delivered a music teacher training programme in international schools across the world. I have also worked as a consultant for BBC Bitesize, Trinity College London and other Music Education organisations in the UK. The opportunity to travel that this additional experience brought broadened my horizons, and my family and I moved to Thailand in 2019.
My husband is a professional opera singer and teaches music in an international school. I have previously taught at two other international schools in Bangkok. I continue to mentor music teachers at various stages of their careers. I enjoy reflecting on all aspects of music education through my blog and articles for various music education publications. I am so excited to be part of the team at St Andrews.
Working in a school where music is valued and enjoyed by the whole school community is a wonderful opportunity for any music educator. It can bring huge benefits to everyone who engages with music during their time at the school. Travel with my family, cooking, reading and writing, my dogs, finding new ideas and getting excited about them!
Despite being a big school, there is a lovely family feel to the community and music is really valued as an integral part of school life.
"Mrs Anna you are really tall!"