At the recent AUSTA National Conference, I had the pleasure of sharing a presentation that explored the many insights I’ve gathered over the years on the art and technique of bowing. Throughout my journey as a violinist and violist, I’ve been fortunate to learn from inspiring mentors such as Kato Havas, Shinichi Suzuki, Fintan Murphy, Janet Mason—who...
If you haven’t yet discovered the brilliance of Angela Harman’s work, you’re in for a treat. Angela is widely known for her innovative, classroom-tested strategies that make string teaching more engaging, effective, and joyful. In today’s post, she dives into one of the most vital—and sometimes overlooked—skills for young musicians: note reading. With her signature blend of practicality...
Welcome to The Soundboard, AUSTA’s new blog dedicated to amplifying the voices, stories, and ideas that shape our national strings community. In this first edition, we begin by looking back, playing forward—honouring our past as we move confidently into the future.
We’re proud to feature “Living Treasure: Elizabeth Morgan...
Inspiration. Ideas. Community.Welcome to the AUSTA Blog—a space for Australian string teachers, performers, students, and makers to connect, share, and grow together. Here you'll find teaching tips, interviews with inspiring musicians, reflections from classrooms and studios, introductions to new music and resources, and stories from across our vibrant national community. Whether you’re just starting your journey or have decades of...
testing this out
Technology in Instrumental Teaching In the evolving landscape of education, technology plays a pivotal role in enhancing learning experiences. This presentation explores the innovative use of various applications in the instrumental music classroom, demonstrating how these digital tools can transform traditional...
Whether you are new to music teaching or an established teacher, discover how the AMEB Teaching Syllabuses can help you enhance your studio teaching practice based on the latest research in music...
We all know the phrase ‘technical work’ can make even the most committed students groan. But what if we, as educators, can reframe technical work as a series of achievable milestones they can work towards in...
La Folia and its ensemble performance: an approach to interpretative editions HIP often provides interpretative and stylistic guides, particularly with regard to Baroque music, for student, teacher, adjudicator and professional player alike. But what of when HIP norms overlook a creative and performing tradition extending centuries? This presentation focuses on the ensemble performance of Corelli's La Folia Op5/12, highlighted by...
I am joining forces with Lachlan Dent, Sophia Lai and Emma Rodda to present Lachlan's new string note tutor app, as well as discussing what to...New Australian Music for Violin and Piano: HSC Core Music Requirements workshop 
Violinist Vov Dylan has been curating over recent years a series of recordings of brand new Australian music for Violin and Piano. The first release Kismet: Vignettes for Violin and Piano by Elena Kats Chernin spent 2 years in...
In order for young students to play violin well, they must be set up correctly. Therefore, their teacher in this initial stage will be one of the most important, often having a profound impact on their musical life. Ironically, beginner...
not fixed or seemingly forgotten? This session will...
Build and Maintain your K-12 Program An overview of a K-12 established and successful String program, focusing on building and developing, maintaining organised structure, instrumental balance, extending standards while being inclusive and always focusing on enjoyment. Key points will include junior programs,...