Professional development for teachers/musicians

I’m an Australian performance practice specialist and educator who maintains an artistic practice as a concert pianist, concert organist and composer on the national and international scene (www.mariawelna.com).

My pianistic pedigree can be traced to world-renowned music conservatories, and a number of concert artists/professors. Furthermore, as a performance practice specialist, I myself specialise in the Russian School, the golden age of pianism and its concert-virtuoso tradition.

I hold Bachelor and Master’s degrees in performance from Katowice, Poland and Sydney, Australia. I also have teaching/pedagogy qualifications (for teaching instrumental piano in primary and secondary music schools), wide education experience and pedagogical knowledge. I have exceptional knowledge and training in instrument specific methodology, performance practice, studio pedagogy and psychology. I’ve taught advanced piano in selective music schools in Europe, maintained a piano studio in Australia, completed a postgraduate ‘Principles of Studio Pedagogy’ unit at the Sydney Conservatorium and have experience as a piano adjudicator/examiner within NSW and ACT (at all levels i.e. from P Plate piano to 8th grade AMEB as well as Certificate of Performance). I have taught piano at the Conservatorium Open Academy, am a member of the Accompanists’ Guild of NSW and have maintained membership of the Music Teachers’ Association of NSW for some years.

My one-to-one PD offering which is individually tailored to each participant (on a case-by-case basis) has helped solo piano and instrumental teachers in Australia further develop their solo piano and/or collaborative piano performance skills. A long term one-on-one program is currently available in Sydney or online. The program of study may incorporate implementation of instrument specific methodology and pedagogy. Teachers/musicians may also be offered music history, music/instrument specific literature, performance practice, aural/theory, examination syllabus/competition/Eisteddfod and performance anxiety PD where relevant. Lesson observation/pedagogy input available where desired. I also maintain a master-class or workshop offering subject to availability.

My professional industry experience and strong performance background ensure that I teach excellent performance and pedagogy skills in an organised, reliable and supportive manner. I have given guest lectures in piano performance practice at the tertiary level and lecture/recitals at prestigious institutions internationally/nationally.

If you'd like to learn with me the best way to arrange a lesson time is through email (management@mariawelna.com). Please include information such as your location, piano background and your PD goals.