Former TSoM Student Spotlight - Louisa Williamson

Written By Kim Manunui

We love hearing about what former Taupō School of Music students are up to, especially those who have perused a career in music.
Recently we sent a few questions to Louisa Williamson, this is what she had to say.

  • How old were you when you started at the Taupō School of Music? 11 or 12

  • What instrument did you start on? Clarinet

  • What instrument did you learn at the School of Music? Clarinet

  • How did School of Music impact your life? Group clarinet lessons at Taupō School of Music were where my love for playing woodwind instruments was first nurtured - Winsome Wensley kick started my career modelling her love for exploring the clarinet and saxophone.

  • How is music part of your life now? I am a fully self-employed musician (gigs, recording sessions) and have also taught in the Jazz Performance degree at Victoria University for the last four years.

  • What is your greatest musical experience or achievement to date? In 2016 I was the first New Zealander to successfully audition for the JMI Jazz World Orchestra (the worlds premier youth jazz band - ages 18-26). We rehearsed in Germany for a week and toured around 5 countries in Europe.

  • Anything you would like to add? I would have never been able to become a musician if it wasn't for my parents hiring a saxophone for me for many years! Big shout out to the parents who are supporting their kids with instruments - and of course to all of the teachers at Taupō School of Music! Music lessons are so beneficial to young children's general development, I've learnt that music teaches us so much more than notes and chords - to play music you need empathy, great listening skills, and the ability to work with others effectively. Group lessons are especially great for social skills and self-confidence!

 

Louisa playing with LAB.

Photo credit: Lucy Hammond @hammondvisuals

Kim Manunui

Hi, I’m Kim and I work with a great team to help individuals, as well as small and not so small businesses get their message, product and services to the world using digital media and creating wonderful websites that don’t cost the earth.

I was born in Canada, and grew up around Vancouver and the mountains of British Columbia. My love of pristine environments led me to New Zealand and eventually to the mountains, lakes and rivers of the central North Island which is home. My family’s heritage is here, and it’s from here that Korio traverses the planet.

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