Carolyn Schofield

Experienced, patient, warm and neurodivergent-friendly piano teacher in Eltham North.

Currently taking enquiries for new students on mornings and afternoons from Monday to Thursday, at my home (located just a few minutes from St Helena and Eltham, and close to Research, Briar Hill, Montmorency and Diamond Creek).

I am an experienced pianist, violinist, electronic musician, composer and sometimes-DJ who is passionate about making music fun and rewarding for students. I have been playing piano since I was four years old and obtained my Licentiate of Music in piano at 14 years of age. I also teach theory, musicianship, composition, music history and aural studies, which I incorporate into piano lessons but can also teach separately. I hold multiple diplomas in piano performance as well as a Bachelor of Music (Honours) from the University of Melbourne, where I majored in composition and received numerous awards for my work. I am currently completing PhD research in Interactive Composition at the University of Melbourne, and perform around Victoria and Australia regularly - including at the Sydney Opera House for NYE, the NGV, Hamer Hall, Rising Festival, MPavilion and more.

I aim to motivate students by making music lessons enjoyable while setting achievable goals, ensuring that students are continually progressing in their technical skills and musicality. I'm easy-going, patient, friendly and great with kids, and I strive to help students reach their full potential. I've ensured excellent results for all my students undertaking AMEB exams in piano and theory. I have plenty of experience with neurodivergent kids and a solid understanding of the challenges faced by those with ADHD or on the autism spectrum, and I will always tailor lessons to what’s best for each individual student, depending on their strengths, tastes and aspirations. While I comfortably play and teach all styles, I want the music that we play to be as relevant as possible in the 21st century, not out-dated or boring. I teach some students electronic music composition if they are so inclined!

In my time away from the piano, I most enjoy making electronic music, composing and performing my own music. I love listening to music from all over the world, particularly African, Brazilian and Latin music, but I also love soul, rock, indie, jazz, experimental and electronic music. On the piano I love to improvise or play the music of the impressionists, late-Romantics and more contemporary composers. Music to me is about being expressive, authentic, having fun and getting in touch with our deeper selves and those around us!