Vicki Crozier
What is your instrument, why did you start learning it and when did you start learning it?
My name is Vicki Crozier and I teach the flute at Inaburra. I was introduced to music through recorder lessons at my primary school, many decades ago. I will be forever thankful for the passion and dedication of my wonderful teacher, John Freeland. For a special treat he would play the flute for us at the end of the lesson. He was in the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, so was an amazing musician. I took one look at his sparkling flute and was hooked for life!
It took some convincing, but my parents allowed me to have piano lessons and later, flute lessons. I loved every minute of it.
How long have you been teaching at Inaburra for and what do you do when you’re not teaching at Inaburra?
I have been teaching at Inaburra for about 13 years. When not at Inaburra, I spend a lot of time playing the Shakuhachi, a simple Japanese bamboo flute. About 10 years ago I heard it for the first time and instantly loved the range of sounds and meditative quality of the instrument when played by a master. I have been to Japan to have lessons with a master player and really hope that I can return soon.
How long have you been teaching at Inaburra for? What is it that you love about Music at Inaburra?
I love teaching at Inaburra for many reasons. Music is highly valued in the school, is accessible to all and is a big part of mainstream school life. Visiting music teachers like me are warmly welcomed and feel part of a large and enthusiastic music department. There is a strong work ethic, but also plenty of fun. Teachers also genuinely want students to develop a lifelong love of and passion for music.
Dave Manuel
What is your instrument, why did you start learning it and when did you start learning it?
My name is Dave Manuel and I play percussion. That means that I play a number of instruments in the percussion family. I can play drums of all sorts; from Western drums that you find as part of a drum kit to drums from Asia (Japanese Taiko), drums from Africa and the Middle East (djembe and doumbek) and drums from Central America (congas, bongoes and timbale). I play timpani (my favourite) and all the mallet keyboard instruments as well – marimba, vibraphone, xylophone, glockenspiel and tubular bells. Oh, and don’t forget all the “toys” like triangles, tambourines and shakers!
I started formally learning “the drums” from age 11, although I have been bashing away on cushions and pots and pans since I can remember. When I started at St Patrick’s at Sutherland I joined the school band and loved it so much that two rehearsals at school a week was not enough, so off to Sutherland Shire Silver Band for two more rehearsals a week! It was banding that taught me the basics of all the instruments I’ve listed above and nurtured my love of music to the point that I was able to make it my profession.
How long have you been teaching at Inaburra for and what do you do when you’re not teaching at Inaburra?
I started teaching at Inaburra in 2007, so 15 years. When I’m not teaching at Inaburra I like to perform with my band – “The Bad 80’s Band” and freelancing with all types of ensembles in all types of musical situations. I also like to ride my bicycle as often as possible.
What is it that you love about Music at Inaburra?
All the people involved. From the teaching staff, to the tutoring team and all the students. It’s always been a happy department with a contagious air of positivity. It’s hard to find a frown once you enter the PAC!