reference Susan
- 1. 5 Dudley St Brighton 2186 August 20 2013 To Whom It May Concern, I worked with Ms Phillipa Edwards at Firbank Grammar School, Brighton from September 2006 until the end of 2012, in my role as Junior Music Teacher. I found her to be a passionate and inspiring teacher, who was able to develop the abilities of her students to a very high level. Her work with students with social and behavioural issues was particularly impressive, as she was often able to improve their school connectedness and general performance through their participation in music. A high percentage of students took up brass instruments following on from their compulsory group instrumental experiences in Year Five and continued with their studies through secondary school. Performances by brass students at recitals were of a very high standard, In directing the Junior Ensemble, Phillipa gave clear direction and managed to give part practice to every instrumental group while still keeping other students engaged. Students with minimal experience played alongside highly able students, each with a part that was manageable, but suitably challenging. The enthusiasm for the students for the repertoire was very high and the attendance rate at lunch-time rehearsals was almost perfect. Phillipa was consultative and collegiate in involving junior staff in the arrangements for performances and made sure that plans fit with the school calendar and that plenty of advance notice was given to staff, school administration and parents. She gave extra time to providing performance opportunities for the group at whole-school events and occasional community events. The parent community gave positive feedback regarding Phillipa’s work, in appreciation of their daughter’s progress and level of enthusiasm for music. Phillipa’s musicianship and teaching abilities would be an asset to any music department. Sincerely, Susan Searle Acting Head of Junior Music Scotch College, Melbourne