A bit about Wayne

Wayne began learning the organ at seven years of age (organ was a BIG thing back in the late 70’s) before moving to the piano a few years later. After completing the gamut of piano/theory exams during his teenage years, Wayne auditioned, and was accepted, into the Bachelor of Arts degree at QUT’s Academy of the Arts (as it was known then) in 1993. Majoring in piano performance, Wayne studied under the tuition of Sue Forster and Max Olding, completing his degree with a High Distinction on piano. Wayne also undertook secondary studies in voice and classical guitar (with Karin Schaupp) in addition to composition with Australian composers including Mary Mageau and Peter Rankine. At the end of 1995, Wayne was nominated for a QUT University Medal.

In 1996, Wayne completed his Graduate Diploma in Education specialising in Primary Music Education. After completing this degree, he commenced working with Education Queensland as a Primary Music Specialist, the same position he currently holds.

Wayne has worked in over a dozen Primary and Secondary schools throughout QLD but is currently based in Queensland on the beautiful Sunshine Coast at Mooloolaba State School, a position he has occupied since 2001. Wayne has conducted and accompanied choirs throughout his career in addition to accompanying instrumental and vocal students at Eisteddfods, competitions and examinations. Piano teaching has also been an integral part of Wayne’s professional career since 1997 and he continues to teach piano part-time at his home in Buderim.

Wayne’s musical passion has always been, and continues to be, teaching children of all abilities to experience and enjoy music in such a way that it becomes a part of their everyday lives. He strongly believes that “Music makes you a better person” – mentally, physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually.

Wayne’s compositional output is strongly inspired by the students he teaches and, as a result, many of his compositions reflect the personalities of his students. In addition to choral music, Wayne has also developed a host of music programs for music teachers in primary schools with resources such as Ukulele Works, Guitar Works, Recorder Works and Classroom Music Resources Package being used throughout Australia in state, Catholic and private education.