30+ years of inspiring musicians of all ages across East Auckland.
I'm Sue, a piano and keyboard teacher with more than 30 years of experience, based in Eastern Beach, East Auckland — conveniently located for students from Bucklands Beach, Half Moon Bay, Howick, Highland Park, Pakuranga, Botany, Flat Bush and surrounding suburbs. Teaching music isn't just what I do — it's my passion, and I bring that warmth and dedication to every lesson.
I currently teach with the New Zealand Modern School of Music (NZMSM), preparing students for NZMSM, ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music), and Trinity College London (TCL) examinations. My experience spans students from beginner to intermediate level, from the very young to adults returning to the instrument.
My speciality is young beginners — those magical early lessons where a child first discovers that they can make music. I believe that every child deserves to feel successful and excited about music from day one.
I also teach adults, welcoming those who are picking up the piano for the first time and those who played as children and want to return. It's never too late to begin.
NZMSM
Current teacher and exam preparation specialist for New Zealand's leading music school.
ABRSM
Internationally recognised music examinations, preparing students from Grade 1 through to higher levels.
TCL
A globally recognised examination board offering creative, flexible pathways in music performance.
In 2013, I published my first book, Help Me Learn Music — a guide for parents who want to support their child's music lessons at home, without needing any musical knowledge themselves.
The book grew from years of watching parents struggle to help their children practise. It's written in simple, accessible language, and covers the basic principles of music in a way that makes sense to a non-musician — so you can confidently support your child between lessons.
Available on Amazon in paperback and Kindle editions.
"Help Me Learn Music"
by Sue Melody Smith · 2013