My passion for singing and music started with the small household radio/tape recorder as a six-year-old growing up in Bundaberg, QLD.
I’d sit for hours singing and recording myself, which continued into my teens and eventually into recording studios.
At twelve, I was bought a lovely little nylon six-string guitar, and by fourteen, I had formed a duo with my sister. We both played the guitar and sang covers and original songs layered with harmonies at open mic nights- despite my sheer terror at the time! The wheels were set in motion…
"Music isn’t always just about the music. Students are rarely seeking only technical improvement in some cases. It might be a personal journey of individual growth or something they do for themselves for their own wellbeing."
After playing in various original bands in my teens and early 20s, I went on to perform as a soloist. I wrote, recorded and performed full-time for several years, signing a distribution deal with MGM and performing at festivals such as the Woodford Folk Festival, Peats Ridge Festival, and some smaller home-grown festivals.
During this time, I opened shows for several accomplished and inspiring Australian musicians, such as The John Butler Trio, Deborah Conway, Tex Perkins, Jeff Lang, Mia Dyson and others. Volunteering in the Contemporary Music Program at the GARMA Festival (near Gove in Arnhem Land) was a privilege and another unforgettable experience.
Now I enjoy passing on my experience and inspiring others. I help young and old follow their love of music, professionally and personally, wherever it may take them…
I’ve now been running my guitar and vocal tuition business since 2008.
My list of formal qualifications is short, although I did study a year of a vocal major at Southern Cross Uni many years ago.
However, twenty years of experience as a singer, songwriter, musician and performer and fifteen years as a private guitar and vocal tutor is what I have to offer.
Also, Dance Dynamics in Byron Bay employed me as their Musical Theatre teacher for several years for their junior and senior groups- with so many talented students, it was always such a great group dynamic!
"It’s a fine balance between pushing a student's edge, maintaining interest, achieving goals and keeping the class achievable and fun. A student should leave feeling like they’ve made progress and, most importantly, enjoyed the class.”
When the guitar is not under my arm, you’ll probably find me out in the surf! My other great loves are the outdoors, hiking, sailing, camping, and yoga.
“Our son started playing guitar and taking lessons with Deb when he was eight. Over the past four years, he’s learned so much – not only in terms of musical skills and knowledge but in terms of how to be in the world.
Deb is the most beautiful, kind, warm and patient person, which is evident in her teaching style. She is encouraging and positive and always has something lovely to say to her students to motivate and inspire them. Every lesson with Deb is a good experience - no matter how our little guy arrives at the start, he always leaves feeling better.
He’s learned an incredible range of music and has spent lots of time jamming with Deb and exploring his own style and creativity. Most importantly, she has helped him to discover his innate musical self, and we will always be grateful for that.”
I acknowledge and pay respect to the Arakwal people on Bundjalung Country. Australias first people on the land where we live, learn and play. Always was, always will be Aboriginal land.
