Deb Batley

BA (Music), MEd, AMusA, FASME

Deb is a highly respected teacher of flute, piano, and musicianship at the Tamworth Con. She is a Fellow of the Australian Society for Music Education (ASME) and currently serves as the Chair of its NSW Chapter, where she has been an active committee member since 2012. Deb also writes educational resources for the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and consults on their education programs. Her expertise as a professional learning presenter has taken her to national conferences, including Orff Schulwerk, ASME, and the Australian Literacy Educators Association.

A passionate educational researcher, Deb led a landmark study on how instrumental music instruction supports students with reading difficulties. This work received widespread attention, including coverage in the Sydney Morning Herald and invitations to speak internationally. Currently pursuing a PhD at UNSW, Deb researches the relationship between music education and equity, further enriching her contribution to the field.

Kym Beare

BA (Contemporary Music, DipEd

Kym is a versatile and accomplished teacher of guitar and drums, bringing years of performance and educational experience to his role at the Conservatorium. A graduate of Southern Cross University, Kym holds a Bachelor of Contemporary Music with a major in composition and a Graduate Diploma of Education. He worked as a classroom music teacher and faculty coordinator in secondary schools before joining TRCM, where he now inspires students through individual lessons.

In addition to teaching, Kym is an active performer and composer, having worked with well-known artists like Aleyce Simmonds and Adam Eckersley. He has toured nationally with acts like The McClymonts and Victoria Avenue and regularly performs locally with bands including “Power of 2” and “Splashpool.” Kym’s industry experience and passion for contemporary music make his lessons dynamic and engaging, encouraging students to explore diverse styles and develop their musicality.

Emily Bishop

Emily teaches cello and violin and directs ensembles such as Poco a Poco, Sinfonia, and the Adult Cello Ensemble. A former student of the Tamworth Con, Emily pursued cello studies at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. Her experience and dedication to music education have earned her a strong reputation as a teacher and ensemble leader.

Emily has a particular passion for early childhood music education and is committed to establishing cello programs in primary schools across Tamworth. By introducing students to music at an early age, she aims to foster creativity, discipline, and a lifelong appreciation for music. Emily’s engaging teaching style and commitment to nurturing young talent make her a valued member of the Conservatorium’s teaching staff.

Noelene Bosworth

BCA, DipEd, DipBusAdmin

As both Director of the Conservatorium and a teacher of brass and woodwind, Noelene combines her leadership and teaching expertise to guide the Conservatorium’s success. Since joining TRCM in 1995, Noelene has held various key positions, including Head of Brass and Woodwind and Coordinator of Teaching and Learning. She became Director in 2016, bringing a wealth of experience to the role.

Noelene’s musical career spans decades, including serving with the Australian Army Band Sydney and teaching brass in Grafton, Toowoomba, and Sydney. She has also lectured at the University of New England and tutored for Department of Education instrumental camps, both regionally and internationally. Noelene directs the Tamworth Con Community Orchestra and continues to teach students of all levels. Her passion for music education and commitment to the Conservatorium’s growth make her a respected leader and educator in the Tamworth region.

Tammy Clark

BEd (Early Childhood and Primary)

Tammy is an experienced teacher of voice and the Director of the Vocal Performance Ensemble at TRCM. With a lifelong passion for music and theatre, Tammy has been teaching voice since 2014, helping students explore their vocal potential through individual and group lessons. Her approach focuses on tailoring lessons to each student’s interests, exposing them to genres such as jazz, pop, and musical theatre.

Tammy’s extensive performance background includes roles in productions like Chicago, Beauty and the Beast, and Boy from Attunga. She encourages her students to perform regularly and supports those pursuing AMEB vocal exams. Her dedication to vocal education is complemented by her recent completion of a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary), which informs her understanding of developmental learning. Tammy’s nurturing and personalised teaching style ensures students grow as confident and expressive vocalists.

Diane Cork

BA/DipEd, DipIntEd, Cert Gifted & Talented

Diane brings over 40 years of music education experience to her role as a teacher of musicianship and music theory. A retired secondary music teacher, Diane has prepared countless students for AMEB exams in instrumental and theoretical studies, achieving consistently excellent results. Her expertise also extends to choral and instrumental ensemble leadership, as well as musical theatre productions.

Throughout her career, Diane has contributed significantly to the Tamworth arts community, serving on the TRCM Board, Arts Council, and concert committees. Currently, she specialises in teaching theory and musicianship at all levels, helping students develop a strong foundation in musical knowledge. Diane’s depth of experience and passion for education make her a cornerstone of the Conservatorium’s teaching staff, inspiring students to reach their full potential in both academic and creative aspects of music.

James Craswell

BMus

James is a dynamic teacher of guitar and one of the Tamworth region’s most accomplished guitarists. A TRCM alumnus, James completed his Bachelor of Music at UNE and has since become a prolific performer, playing with ensembles such as the Jimmy Craz Band, The O Trio, SumAssault, Merchants of Venice and the UNE Jazz Band. His versatility as a musician allows him to teach a wide range of styles, catering to students with diverse interests.

James began teaching guitar during his undergraduate studies and has developed a teaching style that emphasises adaptability and creativity. He works with students of all ages and skill levels, providing personalised guidance to help them grow as musicians. Whether exploring classical techniques or contemporary genres, James’s engaging lessons inspire students to develop their own musical voice and confidence.

Brett Dallas

Golden Guitar Winner (2018)

Brett is a highly accomplished teacher of guitar, mandolin, and ukulele at the Tamworth Regional Conservatorium of Music, where he has been inspiring students since 2005. A professional musician with over 35 years of experience, Brett is deeply knowledgeable about the music industry and the importance of music theory.

As a session musician, Brett has contributed to countless albums with his exceptional guitar skills, earning a reputation as one of Australia’s most sought-after guitarists. He has also produced and engineered several albums, including the award-winning Lighthouse by Ashleigh Dallas, his daughter. Brett plays a pivotal role as Musical Director for Ashleigh’s band, combining his creativity and leadership to bring their performances to life.

Brett’s teaching focuses on essential techniques, musicianship, and the skills needed to succeed in today’s music industry, ensuring his students grow as confident and capable musicians.

Natallia Dunn

BTeach (Music and Singing), DipTeaching (Musical School & Concertmaster)

Natallia is a passionate and experienced piano teacher and accompanist at TRCM, bringing 30 years of teaching expertise to her students. Born in Belarus, Natallia began her musical journey at the age of seven. She went on to study at the Mogilev Musical College and Minsk State Pedagogical University, where she developed her skills as a teacher and concertmaster.

Before moving to Australia, Natallia spent 15 years coordinating the Piano Department at a children’s music school in Belarus. Since arriving in Australia a decade ago, she has taught at the Australian Academy of Music and run her private teaching practice. Known for her creativity and dedication, Natallia works with students of all ages, sharing her love for piano and nurturing their musical growth.

Brooke Gillett

DipChildren’s Services

Brooke is a dynamic and passionate teacher of Early Childhood Music and Voice at TRCM. With over 20 years of experience working with young children and families, Brooke understands the profound impact of music on a child’s development. She directs several ensembles, including Little Lyrics, Local Vocals, and the Treble Rebels Primary Choir.

Brooke holds a Diploma in Children’s Services and is pursuing a Bachelor of Music part-time. Her expertise includes AMEB training in pianoforte and classical voice, as well as interests in Orff Schulwerk and Kodály methodologies. Brooke’s musical theatre experience includes notable roles like Galinda in Wicked and Eponine in Les Misérables. She also performed as part of a folk duo, touring interstate and at the Woodford Folk Festival.

Brooke’s teaching combines creativity, playfulness, and expertise, fostering a love of music in children and adults alike.

Colin Gutteridge

Colin teaches clarinet and saxophone at TRCM and works extensively within the school programs. A former member of the Royal Australian Navy Band, Colin has been trained in a wide variety of musical styles, from classical to swing and Dixieland jazz.

With nearly 40 years in the music industry, Colin brings a wealth of experience to his teaching. He has taught privately for 36 years and performed musical instrument repairs. Colin’s comprehensive knowledge and passion for woodwinds make him a valuable mentor to students, helping them develop their technical skills and musical expression.

Annette Hamilton

BA (Music), DipEd, ASCM (Piano)

Annette is a distinguished piano teacher and accompanist with a career spanning decades. A graduate of the Conservatorium High School, Sydney University, and Sydney Teachers College, Annette has extensive experience teaching music in public high schools across NSW.

Annette has directed choirs, orchestras, and musical theatre performances and accompanied the Combined Choirs at Sydney Opera House Choral Concerts. Since 1998, she has taught at Calrossy Anglican School, where she served as Head of Music for a decade. At TRCM, Annette draws on her diverse background to inspire and guide her students, fostering a love for piano performance and music education.

Ian Hocquard

DipMusic, BA (Music), DipEd

Ian is a versatile teacher of brass and piano and the director of the Conservatorium Concert Band. With a Bachelor of Music (French Horn major) and a Diploma of Education, Ian has extensive experience in individual and group music instruction at the HSC level.

Ian’s teaching encompasses curriculum-based school programs and brass, piano, and djembe instruction in schools and educational facilities throughout the Tamworth region. A current member of the Australian Army Band Newcastle, Ian has performed in operatic and musical productions across Newcastle, Singleton, and Tamworth. His dedication to fostering musicianship and ensemble performance makes him an invaluable member of the Conservatorium’s teaching staff.

Jacqueline Langston

BMusStudies (Performance)

Jacquie has been an integral part of the Tamworth Regional Conservatorium of Music for many years. A former student, she completed her Bachelor of Music Studies at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, majoring in flute performance under renowned instructors James Kortum, Margaret Crawford, and Mark Walton.

Jacquie teaches a wide array of instruments, including flute, clarinet, recorder, and ukulele, and offers instruction in musicianship and music craft. She has also directed ensembles such as the Tamworth Regional Youth Orchestra, TRCM Flute Ensemble, and TRCM Concert Band. Her experience extends to musical theatre, where she has served as Musical Director for over 20 productions. Jacquie is passionate about bringing music education to students across regional NSW, travelling to towns like Gunnedah and Quirindi to inspire the next generation of musicians.

Jarron McGrane

Jarron is a versatile musician and teacher with a rich background in both performance and education. Having studied piano, violin, viola, double bass, tuba, and drums, Jarron’s musical expertise is extensive. He has been a member of ensembles such as the Regional Youth Orchestra and the Tamworth RSL Brass Band, performing at state and national competitions.

Jarron’s accolades include nine consecutive years in the State Wind Band, where he performed at the Sydney Opera House on tuba and percussion, as well as international tours with the West of Divide Wind Band. As a teacher, Jarron inspires his students to develop their skills and passion for percussion, blending his technical knowledge with a deep understanding of music performance.

Samara Power

AMusA (Violin)

Samara Power has been part of the Tamworth music community since childhood, beginning violin lessons at age six and earning her AMusA in 2010. A former member of the Tamworth Regional Youth Orchestra (now TCCO), she now has the privilege of conducting the ensemble, inspiring young musicians to achieve their best.

As a strings teacher, Samara is passionate about sharing the joy of music and helping students build skills that allow them to collaborate and create with others. Her teaching combines technical instruction with a focus on fostering confidence and musical expression, empowering students to grow as musicians and individuals.

Todd Power

BMus, MDesSc (Audio & Acoustics)

Todd Power is a piano teacher and accompanist with deep ties to the Conservatorium, having started piano lessons here at the age of five. A graduate of the University of Newcastle and the University of Sydney, Todd returned to TRCM in 2013, bringing expertise in performance and audio engineering.

Todd’s extensive experience includes serving as Musical Director for major productions such as Rent and Beauty and the Beast and directing CAPERS, a regional showcase featuring over 1500 students. He has also been a Convenor of Music for the City of Tamworth Eisteddfod Society since 2016. Currently studying for a Master of Secondary Teaching, Todd continues to inspire his students through his passion for music and education.

Katie Ringland

Jane Stewart

AMusA (Piano & Organ), LMusA (Organ), LTCL (Organ), BA, MMus (Piano Performance)

Jane Stewart is a distinguished pianist, organist, and teacher with a lifelong passion for music. She completed her A.Mus.A in piano while still in school and went on to earn advanced qualifications in organ performance. Jane holds a Master of Music from London University and is an Honorary Carillonist at Sydney University.

Jane’s career includes roles as a recitalist, accompanist, and Director of Music, with extensive experience conducting choirs and orchestras. Since moving to Tamworth in 2022, she has brought her wealth of knowledge and love for music to TRCM, where she helps students discover and develop their innate musicality.

Nathan Tainsh

Nathan Tainsh joined the teaching staff at TRCM in 2023 after years of study as a piano student under Todd Power. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Music at the University of New England, combining his academic studies with his passion for teaching. Nathan is dedicated to helping students build strong technical skills and confidence in their musical journey.