Music

School of Music

How are the programmes structured?

Full Programme

Individual lessons on voice or instrument twice per week in term time taught on a one–to–one basis
Chamber music - each student will participate in a chamber music ensemble and will have 24 lessons during University of Canterbury term times.
Concerts - performance opportunities at least once per term. This offers students of the Academy the opportunity to perform on stage, repertoire on which they have been working in their individual lessons or with their chamber music group. These performances will take place at important concert halls throughout Christchurch and Canterbury, eg, the Great Hall of The Arts Centre

Masterclasses - given by internationally renowned guest artists. Academy students will have the opportunity to participate in masterclasses at least four times per year.
Lectures - on various topics given by staff members or guest artists

Part-time programme

The Part-time programme is for students from outside the Christchurch area and for Christchurch-based students whose instrumental tutors wish to collaborate with Academy staff.

One lesson per month taught on a one–to–one basis

All part time students are invited to attend all of the masterclasses, lectures and concerts of the Junior Academy.

Please note: Junior Academy lessons are normally 45 minutes duration.

Accompanist

Welsh-born Iola Shelley was educated in the UK and enjoyed a remarkable career as a solo pianist, becoming the youngest student to be awarded Piano Performance Diplomas at the Royal Academy and Royal College of Music, London.

In New Zealand, she changed her specialisation to chamber music and accompanying, becoming a founding member of the Camerata chamber group. In addition to teaching advanced students she is an international examiner for the Associated Board of the Royal School of Music.

She has an extensive repertoire and an international reputation as a chamber-music pianist and accompanist.

Each student will receive:

  • one 45 minute rehearsal per term
  • one lesson with teacher and piano accompanist
  • 10-15 minute fixed dress rehearsal on concert day
  • 20 minute rehearsal before a masterclass

Any extra rehearsals required will have to be arranged privately by the student.

Rehearsals will be held at University of Canterbury School of Music venues.  The dress rehearsal will be held at the concert venue.

Iola Shelley’s contact number is (03) 366-8931; email iola@xtra.co.nz. Students should contact her to arrange rehearsal times and music well in advance of each performance event.

Iola teaches at the School of Music, Room 110.  Please leave the music for concerts (named) at reception.