Jodie Freeman

Jodie began learning the violin at age of 5 and went on to complete her ATCL diploma. Having always loved music, the desire to make teaching a career came at a young age.

During her time at school and university, Jodie performed in numerous orchestras, chamber groups, and choirs. Her interest in conducting developed while in college and, under the direction of one of her teachers, she began her conducting training. From there, she went on to work at the Christchurch School of Music as both a violin teacher and assistant conductor.

After completing a Music Degree with First Class Honours in Conducting at the University of Canterbury in 2012, Jodie trained as a secondary school teacher. She has taught classroom music at most colleges throughout Nelson and enjoys taking preschool music classes alongside conducting the orchestras at NCMA and the Nelson Symphony Orchestra.

Jodie has a love for teaching and takes pride in ensuring her students develop strong violin technique from the very beginning.

With more advanced students, Jodie focuses on refining technique and bringing out the musical expression within each piece. She believes incorporating music theory and music knowledge into lessons is important, as it enables students to develop a deeper understanding of the music they are playing.

Music theory is one of Jodie’s favourite aspects of music education, and she enjoys the challenge of explaining concepts in different ways to suit each student’s learning style. She loves seeing students gain confidence as their understanding develops and translates into their practical playing.

Conducting continues to be a rewarding part of Jodie’s musical career, and having started learning herself at a young age, she would love to see more students develop an interest in this art form.