Neil Hamilton

Clarinet, Saxophone, Flute, Guitar and Drums

Neil Hamilton is a Scottish musician, educator, and creative professional whose career spans performance, teaching, and visual arts.

Educated in Queensland, Australia, Neil graduated from the Queensland Conservatorium of Music in 2001 with a Bachelor of Music in Performance, Intensive Major. During his time there, he performed regularly with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra, gaining extensive orchestral experience before returning to Scotland later that year.

Since his return, Neil has performed with numerous touring West End productions, including Guys and Dolls, Cabaret, Peter Pan, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Dancing in the Streets, and The Rat Pack Live from Las Vegas. His versatility as a clarinettist and saxophonist has made him a sought-after performer across a wide range of genres.

From 2002 to 2008, Neil taught clarinet and saxophone at several Scottish independent schools, before being appointed Assistant Director of Music and Head of Instrumental Music at Strathallan School in 2008. Over the next 17 years, he played a central role in shaping the school’s musical life—teaching woodwind and classroom music up to Advanced Higher and A Level, Musical Director for the Senior School musical, conducting the Orchestra, Wind Band, Big Band, and Clarinet Ensemble, and leading instruction in music technology and theory.

Beyond music, Neil is also a published professional photographer and licensed drone pilot, bringing the same creative vision and technical precision to visual storytelling as he does to musical performance.

Qualifications

Bachelor of Art in Music 1991. ABRSM Diploma in piano performance 2017. Associate Member of the Institute of Registered Music Teachers in New Zealand.

Specialties

Clarinet, Drum Kit, Electric Guitar, Flute, Guitar (Acoustic), Saxophone

Our

Teachers

Charlotte Dempsey

Vocal & Choir Teacher

Charlotte grew up in the UK, and made Queenstown her home in 2011. Surrounded by music from a young age, piano and singing was always a big part of her life. Performing on stage as a child sparked a love for storytelling through song, which has only grown stronger over the years. In recent years Charlotte has been involved in the local performing arts scene, both on stage and behind the scenes with Showbiz Queenstown. Singing is Charlotte’s true passion – especially harmonising with others. She loves the joy and freedom singing brings. Her goal as a teacher is to help others experience that same feeling, whether they’re just starting out or looking to refine their skills. She focuses on one-on-one coaching, providing tools and techniques to unlock each singer’s unique potential in a supportive and relaxed environment. Over the past few years, Charlotte has been studying Estill voice training, a method that helps singers understand and control their voice with confidence. Whether you want to build vocal strength, develop your range, or just sing for fun – she’s all about making learning an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

David Bell

Guitar, Bass and Drums

I am a local musician, music teacher and music producer.

I have been playing professionally in queenstown for over a decade. I want to share my musical abilities, teach new skills and continue to help facilitate professional lessons for all. Im easy going and expressive with a welcoming demeanor and passion for music.

Don’t be afraid to get in touch and see if I have availability! I teach a little bit of everything! From drums to singing!

I hope to see you soon!

Chris Stevens

Ukulele & Guitar Teacher

Chris relocated to Central Otago after 34 years of teaching Primary School children in Southland Schools. Most of those years Chris had the added responsibility of the schools’ music teacher, or music specialist leading Teaching colleagues and writing school Curriculum plans. A highlight of her career as a school music teacher was conducting the World Vision Kids for Kids choir concerts in Invercargill and Gore, with Suzanne Prentice as the guest artist. Chris gained ACET, National teaching recognition in 2017 and again in 2018, for raising student achievement in the Arts and Literacy. In her personal time, Chris enjoyed performing as the lead singer in a variety of popular Invercargill bands, which stretched over 30 years. She also played rhythm guitar or keyboard. She was a member of the Southland Musicians club and once, nominated for Entertainer of the Year. Chris teaches a variety of instruments, ukulele, guitar, recorder, xylophone, junior percussion and African drumming, ‘I truly believe music soothes the soul. It is a gift, a koha that keeps giving. Playing music together strengthens social relationships, builds teamwork and is FUN. It is wonderful brain gym! Start your musical journey now. I can’t wait to meet you!

Anna Dorsey

Vocals, Performance and Band Lab

Claire Forrester

Violin & Viola Teacher

Claire is an accomplished and experienced performer, teacher and singer/songwriter. She has played the violin and guitar for over 30 years and has been a member of many orchestras, bands and the traditional Irish music circuit. She has a BAHons, a diploma in Music Education and has been teaching violin and music theory to both adults and children for over 10 years. Her lessons relay her passion for music, and are fun and enjoyable whilst productive.

Ali Board

Drums

Neil Hamilton

Clarinet, Saxophone, Flute, Guitar and Drums

Violet Hirst

Vocals, Guitar

Violet is a musician and songwriter born and raised in Tāhuna/Queenstown. Her musical journey began the day she was born – opening night of her mother’s musical Kitchens. Since then, Violet has always been involved in music and the arts. She studied piano as a young child and began learning guitar at age 12 from Irish musician John Healy. This gave Violet a more specialised technique focused on fingerpicking. During her arts degree at Te Herenga Victoria University of Wellington, Violet studied papers in Sonic Arts (composition and music technology) and creative writing. Since 2018 Violet has been involved in the indie and alternative music scenes of Wellington, Auckland and Dunedin, gathering a wide knowledge of the local Aotearoa industry. Her debut album Donegal (2023) reached #1 on SRN and Radioscope Alternative charts and was followed by a national tour. She has opened for The Tallest Man on Earth, Muroki and featured on RNZ, Rolling Stone and Flying Nun. Recently, Violet toured the USA with band Office-Dog as a supporting musician (guitar, vocals, piano). She is now home and open to teaching guitar.

Dougie

Flute Teacher

Dougie is an experienced flautist with over 30 years of experience 22 of which as principal flautist ‘The Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland’ travelling worldwide as a performer. He studied at the Royal Military School of Music, Kneller Hall where he gained qualifications in performance and theory. He has lived in Queenstown for almost 10 years and has focused on his roots in Celtic music with local band ‘Hair of the Dog’. Dougie can teach flute to all ages and has a fun approach to learning whilst encouraging students to reach their full potential.

Erica Hastie

Violin, Beginner Piano, Early Childhood Groups

I was classically trained on the violin as a child, but I truly came alive when I discovered traditional Celtic fiddle music – full of storytelling, humour, and heart. Today, I share that love of music through one-on-one violin lessons focused on folk and contemporary styles, and through my preschool classes, Magical Music with Erica. Whether I’m teaching, performing at weddings and local gigs, or collaborating with other artists, my aim is always the same: to nurture wellbeing, keep the joy of music alive, and help others experience the connection that music brings.

Jessica Greer

Vocals and Songwriting

Greig Howell

Guitar & Drums Teacher

Greig regards music as one of life’s truly magical pursuits. His experiences encompass performance, composing, recording and teaching. From an early age he was drawn to the sounds of different instruments and genres of music. He began to learn on his father’s guitar at home from around the age of six or seven. At almost the same time Greig discovered his attraction to the drums and was fortunate to have a childhood friend who’s family had a vast music room filled with all that is musical. This was the first place Greig sat behind a drum kit and was immediately hooked. He went on to have guitar & drum lessons through his school and college years and was also mentored by various independent teachers. It wasn’t long before Greig was performing on guitar in a three piece band at school. He also played as a drummer and percussionist in the school orchestra and would perform regularly in various locations. Over the years Greig has played and recorded with many bands in various styles on both guitar and drums. Teaching music for Greig started in 2003 in England. He went on to teach in Canada and now in New Zealand. Greig has experience with all age groups and abilities. As a teacher Greig is passionate about helping people feel confident with a strong sense of self belief. Most important to Greig is to create a fun and comfortable learning environment where relationships can be built. Watching people discover their capabilities is a highlight that can be shared and nurtured. Greig has called Queenstown home since 2008 and lives locally with his wife and two children. Outside of teaching Greig can be found exploring our beautiful surroundings, taking photographs, hiking, biking or kayaking as well as performing in bands.

Carl Dobinson

Drums

Mo Ackermann

Drums Teacher

Mo Ackermann is a multi-instrumentalist professional drummer, guitarist and vocalist originally from Brazil, with 18 years of experience in the Queenstown music scene. He performs at local pubs, private events, music festivals and weddings, and has shared the stage with renowned artists such as Katchafire, Jason Kerrison, and Rusty Anderson (guitarist for Paul McCartney). Mo has also headlined the New Year’s Eve Main Stage in Queenstown and Wanaka for multiple years. Starting his musical journey at the age of 12, Mo quickly fell in love with the drums. His career includes signing with a record label, touring New Zealand and Australia with one of his original bands, and gaining extensive knowledge of the music industry, studio recording, and songwriting. Passionate about teaching, Mo shares his expertise with drum students, often playing guitar alongside them to offer a live-band experience, helping them grow not only as drummers but as well-rounded musicians.

Sheena Naughton

Violin Teacher

Sheena has been playing violin for almost as long as she can remember. Her roots are in classical music, but she has also played fiddle music extensively, both in a Celtic rock band, and as a solo performer. She enjoyed solo spots with the City of Invercargill Pipe Band’s signature show, ‘Pipin’ Hot’ and plays regularly at weddings in the District. Originally from Scotland, Sheena has called Queenstown home for over 20 years. During that time, she has been a member of the Central Otago Regional Orchestra, leading the orchestra from time to time. She is a founding member of Queenstown Party Orchestra – a group that performs contemporary and popular music, using (mainly) traditional orchestral instruments. Sheena recently completed a Graduate Diploma in Contemporary Music at SIT. She has been a violin teacher with Turn Up the Music school since 2021 and loves helping others to learn and enjoy an instrument that has been such a massive part of her life.

Conner Rankin

Beginner Piano & Guitar Teacher

I have been playing Piano and Guitar for over 25 years. Growing up in Blenheim my home would always have an instrument or music playing somewhere. My family’s passion for music and my early Piano and Guitar teachers instilled in me a passion for music and the joy it can bring. The joy of learning an instrument, and the joy of getting better. I am eager to foster the same sense of fun and enthusiasm in music as my early teachers gave me.

Lisa Cruickshank

Guitar & Ukulele / Singing, Songwriting & Recording

Lisa has been involved in music most of her life. At 18 she moved from NZ to Canada & the U.S for 14 years. She recorded her first country rock album with her sister, as the duo Rhodes & Marshall. This album release produced 5 top 10 singles & 3 music videos on CMT Canada. They have shared the stage with many artists, including fellow songwriter Keith Urban, who was also on the same publishing company that Lisa & her sister were signed with in Nashville. Opening for music legends like Johnny Cash, Martina McBride, Waylon Jennings, Travis Tritt, and Diamond Rio have been some awesome highlights in her career. The girls left Canada for Nashville Tennessee, signing a 4 year management & publishing deal with Ten Ten Music. They still submit songs on a ‘song by song basis’ to this day, as well as other avenues, but they own their current music catalogue. After moving back home to have her own family, Lisa runs her own private tutoring business, focusing on NZ’s youth & adults with 50+ students on a weekly basis. She is also a long standing member of the ‘LA Social’ crew, a group of 15+ musicians, performing at corporate events throughout the year around NZ, as soloist/duo & full band. Lisa’s songwriting journey has lead to her songs placed on other artists albums, and also been placed highly in various NZ songwriting awards spanning over the past 2 decades. Lisa has written Pop, Rock, Dance, Alternative and Country. Her love of nurturing the talent of others….is why she continues to teach today.

Margaret Mason-Battley

Piano

Rakuto Kurano

Violin, Viola and Piano

Rakuto Kurano is a multi-award-winning performer and composer with extensive professional experience in New Zealand and abroad.

After joining the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra at the age of 18, he went on to perform widely across orchestral, operatic, ballet, and musical theatre. Renowned for his versatility, he has toured across New Zealand performing on violin, viola, piano, baroque violin, baroque viola, and harpsichord.

He studied the piano under acclaimed New Zealand educator, the late Rosemary Miller-Stott QSM, and was awarded his Licentiate Diploma with Distinction from Trinity College London at the age of 17.

As an educator, he brings over a decade of teaching experience through his private studio, alongside considerable experience across public and independent schools. This includes four years at Medbury School, a leading independent school in Christchurch.

Driven by a strong interest in pedagogical research, he developed the Kurano Method® (reg. NZ & AU) and the Six Pillars Framework™, models designed to support effective and comprehensive musical development. Academic qualifications include a Master of Music, a Bachelor of Music with Honours, and a Diploma in Arts from the University of Canterbury, where he studied violin and viola under Professor Mark Menzies.

He is a registered music teacher with the Institute of Registered Music Teachers of New Zealand and a recognised Apple Teacher.

rakutokurano.com

Natasha Matla

Violin and Clarinet

Matty Baker

Guitar & Bass Teacher

Coming from Australia, Matty J picked up a guitar at age 12. In the first 6 months of teaching himself the instrument, he was playing guitar, bass and drums in 5 different bands – and then rapidly progressed to performing in pubs and clubs when he was only 14 years old! During this time, he formed the Gold record-awarded band Thirsty Merc, signed a major label deal with Warner Music, and spent the next 10 years touring all over the country. Following on from the success of the band, he went into freelance Live and Studio session work, playing and recording for some of Australia’s biggest artists and studios, across all styles of music. In 2009, he was invited to perform in China, and since then has spent the last 10 years performing, musical directing, and managing bands all over the globe in top-level Clubs and Casinos, in countries such as China, Malaysia, Macau, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Bahrain, Dubai, and many more. Having thousands of live performances over the years and a deep knowledge of all facets of the entertainment industry, he is a seasoned professional and lives to take his love for music and wealth of experience to teach Guitar, Bass, Studio Recording, and Music theory – and inspire the next generation of passionate young musicians in Queenstown! Currently in Australia, Matty is delivering lessons online via Zoom.

Masa Nakazawa

Piano Teacher

Masa is a versatile pianist and teacher with 8 years’ experience, blending classical training with a love for ensemble music, brass, choirs, and ukulele.

Jane Robertson

Piano Teacher

Jane grew up in Dunedin and started learning the piano at age 8 and progressed through to grade 8, learning until the age of 18. At that point, university, life and adulthood intervened and playing the piano didn’t seem so important any more with classical singing (opera) and theatre now the performing focus. Jane moved to Queenstown in 2004 and theatre has remained a key interest with Jane performing with both Remarkable Theatre and Showbiz Queenstown. In 2014, Jane decided to return to piano playing and began teaching with a small portfolio of students, playing the piano more herself and rediscovering the joy of making music. She started teaching with Turn Up the Music in 2025 and has enjoyed expanding her musical world and sharing her love of music with people of all ages from the Queenstown community.

Alex Yevstifeev

Saxophone Teacher

Born and raised in Rochester, NY into a musical family, Alexander has had experience with both classical and Jazz from an early age. Always part of the school band as well as local jazz big bands, he grew up to study saxophone at the Eastman School of Music before switching degrees to Electrical Engineering at the Rochester Institute of Technology. He has however been continuously active in music performance. Alex moved to Queenstown in 2018 where he plays in several local groups including the Queenstown Jazz Orchestra as well as Alchemy. In addition to playing and teaching music, Alex also runs a woodworking business as well as working for Shotover Systems in Frankton.

Meg Hirata

Vocal Teacher

My name is Meg Hirata. I was born and raised in Japan and have been living in New Zealand since 2000. I’m a freelance portrait artist and have a deep love for music. With over 10 years of experience in choir leadership and vocal performance, I arrange, direct, and record music with heart and care—always with a big, contagious smile. My goal is to share the joy and power of music with the younger generation, helping them build confidence and express themselves through singing. To me, music is a powerful art form that cannot be seen, but something we feel. It carries energy, emotion and connection. I believe that music can bring light, joy, and a sense of belonging—not only to those who create it, but to everyone who listens.

Kana Takahashi

Piano Teacher

Kana is a Tokyo-born pianist teaching in Queenstown since 1996. She offers lessons from beginner to advance in Classical, Pop, Jazz & theory for all levels.

Natasha Wilson

Singing & Vocal Teacher

Natasha Wilson is a Musician and Singing Teacher originally from the UK. She moved to New Zealand in 2018 and has been involved in Queenstown’s Music community ever since. She is the director of In Harmony, an organisation that offers workshops, Vocal Direction and performances, including Queenstown’s popular One-Day Choir. Natasha was Musical Director for Showbiz Queenstown’s 2024 & 2025 productions of “Spamalot” and “Into the Woods”. She has also worked as Musical Director for a number of Junior productions both in the UK and in New Zealand. Natasha is thrilled to be part of the Turn up the Music team.

Carl Dobinson

Drums Teacher

Hey! I’m Carl – I’m a drum teacher from the UK,

and I’m so excited to help my fellow drummers find and exceed their potential, whilst enjoying each step of the way. A little bit about me – I started playing when I was eight, and since then I’ve performed on stages across the UK, Italy and New Zealand in all sorts of bands, from jazz to doo-wop to punk.

Whatever your goal is in music, be it progressing through the grades, playing in a band, or just having fun with your favourite tunes in your headphones, I’m here to help you get there. The drums are such an incredibly engaging and accessible instrument since you don’t need to sit down and study a song’s sheet music in order to play along – you just need a sense of rhythm and a toolbox of grooves, then your creativity will do the rest!

Martin Guy

Drums Teacher

Hi, I’m Martin, I’m from the Isles Of Scilly and I started drumming when I was 9. Having toured the UK extensively alongside completing a bachelors degree in music, I moved back to the Isles when I was in my early 20’s and began offering my first drum lessons. In 2014, I decided to travel to New Zealand, where I have established myself as one of the most in-demand drummers in the Southern Lakes. Having played (almost) every stage the area has to offer, from the corners of the local bars all the way through to the Gibbston Valley and Earnslaw Park New Years stages – with some musicals thrown in for good measure (School Of Rock, Little Shop Of Horrors) I find myself in the very fortunate position to be able to offer lessons alongside the amazing Turn Up The Music team!

Music Teachers Wanted

We are always on the lookout for more passionate music educators!

Our teachers are associates with us, working freelance, so you set your own rates and timetables. We are here to help you get started!

Neil Hamilton

Qualifications

Specialties

Our

Teachers

Music Teachers Wanted

We are always on the lookout for more passionate music educators!

The Turn Up The Music Charitable Trust is a non profit organisation and relies on the support of the community and businesses to raise funds.