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Teachers that love sharing their knowledge
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Diego Idarraga Duarte (Director)
Diego was born in Bogota, Colombia and is now also an Australian citizen, took up piano at the late age of 17 under the tutelage of Colombian teachers Piedad Rosas and Dr Sergei Sitchkov, before completing a Bachelor of Music in his homeland. Diego has a Masters of Music in Classical Piano Performance from the Australian Institute of Music. He taught himself guitar at the age of 12, later on he had lessons with Rafaelle Marcelino in Sydney, Australia and currently holds a Suzuki Certificate IV in Suzuki guitar.
Diego has played as a soloist, as a member of chamber ensembles and with symphonic orchestras such as Sydney Youth Orchestra and Wollongong Symphonic Orchestra and at many concert halls in Colombia, Canada, USA and Australia.
Diego was a semi-finalist at the Southern Highlands International Piano Competition in Australia in 2007 competing against pianists from all around the world and being the only competitor who started learning the instrument at the age of 17. Diego has performed in Australian important venues such as the Opera House, Art Gallery of NSW, St. Andrew's Cathedral, The Concourse and Verbruggen Hall.
Diego has had a parallel trajectory in contemporary music, in his teenage years he had a rock band called Militant, later on, had a jazz band "Cuarto Libre" which won awards at jazz festivals in Colombia, toured in the US with a Colombian legendary rock band called "La Severa Matacera", who with once performed in 2006 in front of a 100.000 people audience at Latin America's biggest free rock festival "Rock al Parque" , playing electric guitar and keyboards at the same time. Diego has also performed in some of Australia's iconic contemporary music venues such as the Basement, Factory Theatre and Lazybones Lounge with renown bands such as Petulant Frenzy and the Cosmic Express
Diego is a passionate piano, guitar and drums pedagogue and has adjudicated for competitions in Colombia, taught Masterclasses and workshops for students of all ages and levels, in Colombia, Indonesia and Australia. Diego founded his music school DIAM in 2017 in Sydney Australia, with a clear vision of how music builds character and teaches important life skills such as discipline, empathy and sensitivity in young kids. DIAM offers an exciting program with Rock Bands, Orchestral Concerts, Musical Theatre for guitar, piano, drums, bass and singing. www.diammusic.com.au
Diego first attempt at composition was with his Jazz band ‘Cuarto Libre” in Colombia where he won the 2nd prize for his composition ‘El Inicio” at Jazz al Parque in 2001, the biggest public Jazz Festival in Colombia. Diego Idarraga Duarte made his debut as a composer in 2022 and since then His latest works: “Nebulae” string quartet and his woodwind quintet “Hades Suite“ were premiered in Sydney in 2023 by Quart-Ed and the Ironbark Ensemble. About Idarraga from Sydney Arts Guide:
“This composer approached his assignment with his signature depth of analysis and careful selection of musical material”
To find out more about him visit his Facebook music page to check his videos and updates on performances:
www.facebook.com/concertdiego
Diego has played as a soloist, as a member of chamber ensembles and with symphonic orchestras such as Sydney Youth Orchestra and Wollongong Symphonic Orchestra and at many concert halls in Colombia, Canada, USA and Australia.
Diego was a semi-finalist at the Southern Highlands International Piano Competition in Australia in 2007 competing against pianists from all around the world and being the only competitor who started learning the instrument at the age of 17. Diego has performed in Australian important venues such as the Opera House, Art Gallery of NSW, St. Andrew's Cathedral, The Concourse and Verbruggen Hall.
Diego has had a parallel trajectory in contemporary music, in his teenage years he had a rock band called Militant, later on, had a jazz band "Cuarto Libre" which won awards at jazz festivals in Colombia, toured in the US with a Colombian legendary rock band called "La Severa Matacera", who with once performed in 2006 in front of a 100.000 people audience at Latin America's biggest free rock festival "Rock al Parque" , playing electric guitar and keyboards at the same time. Diego has also performed in some of Australia's iconic contemporary music venues such as the Basement, Factory Theatre and Lazybones Lounge with renown bands such as Petulant Frenzy and the Cosmic Express
Diego is a passionate piano, guitar and drums pedagogue and has adjudicated for competitions in Colombia, taught Masterclasses and workshops for students of all ages and levels, in Colombia, Indonesia and Australia. Diego founded his music school DIAM in 2017 in Sydney Australia, with a clear vision of how music builds character and teaches important life skills such as discipline, empathy and sensitivity in young kids. DIAM offers an exciting program with Rock Bands, Orchestral Concerts, Musical Theatre for guitar, piano, drums, bass and singing. www.diammusic.com.au
Diego first attempt at composition was with his Jazz band ‘Cuarto Libre” in Colombia where he won the 2nd prize for his composition ‘El Inicio” at Jazz al Parque in 2001, the biggest public Jazz Festival in Colombia. Diego Idarraga Duarte made his debut as a composer in 2022 and since then His latest works: “Nebulae” string quartet and his woodwind quintet “Hades Suite“ were premiered in Sydney in 2023 by Quart-Ed and the Ironbark Ensemble. About Idarraga from Sydney Arts Guide:
“This composer approached his assignment with his signature depth of analysis and careful selection of musical material”
To find out more about him visit his Facebook music page to check his videos and updates on performances:
www.facebook.com/concertdiego
Holly Riva (Singing Tutor)
Contemporary singer songwriter Holly Riva, born and raised in Sydney and London enjoys a successful career in the international music Industry. Spotted whilst performing in London by her UK management team whom founded the Eurythmics. Hollys a passionate song writer and has weekly collaborations in partnership with many notable producers such as Craig Gannon (former member of ‘The Smith’s’) working closely with her publisher ‘Fairwood Music (uk)’ . In 2020 Holly secured an original song in a feature movie due to be released in 2021, starring Oded Fehr and Corey Johnson from ‘Jason Bourne’ and ‘The Mummy’. Having been vocally trained since a young age by Dr Elizabeth Willis (Sydney Conservatorium of Music), and completing grade 8 in the Australian Music Examinations Board (AMEB) for singing, Holly is in process of completing her AMusA diploma. Holly has a passion to learn and studied courses in rock/pop and jazz at the London Guildhall School of Music & Drama. Graduating from her secondary education at the Australian Performing Arts Grammar School Sydney, with a scholarship of recognition for her craft, achieving artist of the year for two years running and an encore nomination for her HSC music. With a passion to teach she has a holistic approach that focuses on the individual to help them find their true voice, providing students with not only the foundations of music but also a strong sense of performance techniques and inner confidence.
Suna Flynn (Band conductor)
Australian Chinese performance artist, Classically trained on piano, singing, yet able to play Erhu, violin, Pipa, viola, Lyra and Harp, arranged music, conduct and dance also.
At age 16, Japanese Victor Exam board awarded her as Intermediate piano and music theory teacher and came second in Formosa (Taiwan) Piano Competition in the same year. She studied music in Fu-Jen Catholic University (Taiwan) at age 19, performed on TV, talent shows and taught as a lecture there.
Resides within Australia since 2008, she has dedicated herself into community activities: students’ recitals, performance art and music pedagogy workshops, attending many festivals, eg: Atherton Music Festival and Chinese New Year Festival Cairns 2018. She founded the Cultural Festival in 2016, Showcase in Paradise (renamed) 2017, 2018 and 2019. Took on the role as secretary of Queensland Music Teacher Association earlier in 2019. Then moved to Sydney for further career opportunities in late 2019. Also the lead piano accompanist of NSW Art Unit Music Camp 2023.
She is currently contracted with various local Sydney Schools as ensemble/band conductor, professional accompanist for Sydney Community College Choir and conductor of Inner West Youth Orchestra, the head of music of Showcase in Paradise Music School: Home Studio in Gladesville and music school King Square, Concord West, NSW; also the artistic director and conductor of Musicáno Fusion Ensemble. She received St. Patrick Catholic Perish, Bondi Scholarship Choral Tuition Scholarship and will be further her study in vocal skills, conducting and learning Organ from March 2023. Also become the finalist of Resilience Together Business NSW empowering women. The Cultural Centre Pty Ltd has gained multiple business contract, collaboration and sponsorship under her leadership. The Collaboration ranged from Sydney Oprea House, Travel Company, national and local commerces to other small and medium size businesses. In the end of 2023 She is also the Artist Director of Wild Swans Ballet Suites Production by Elena Kats-Chernin in Sydney Town Hall. It is a historical moment for Australian Music as there has not been live music and dance production since its premiere in Opera House.
At age 16, Japanese Victor Exam board awarded her as Intermediate piano and music theory teacher and came second in Formosa (Taiwan) Piano Competition in the same year. She studied music in Fu-Jen Catholic University (Taiwan) at age 19, performed on TV, talent shows and taught as a lecture there.
Resides within Australia since 2008, she has dedicated herself into community activities: students’ recitals, performance art and music pedagogy workshops, attending many festivals, eg: Atherton Music Festival and Chinese New Year Festival Cairns 2018. She founded the Cultural Festival in 2016, Showcase in Paradise (renamed) 2017, 2018 and 2019. Took on the role as secretary of Queensland Music Teacher Association earlier in 2019. Then moved to Sydney for further career opportunities in late 2019. Also the lead piano accompanist of NSW Art Unit Music Camp 2023.
She is currently contracted with various local Sydney Schools as ensemble/band conductor, professional accompanist for Sydney Community College Choir and conductor of Inner West Youth Orchestra, the head of music of Showcase in Paradise Music School: Home Studio in Gladesville and music school King Square, Concord West, NSW; also the artistic director and conductor of Musicáno Fusion Ensemble. She received St. Patrick Catholic Perish, Bondi Scholarship Choral Tuition Scholarship and will be further her study in vocal skills, conducting and learning Organ from March 2023. Also become the finalist of Resilience Together Business NSW empowering women. The Cultural Centre Pty Ltd has gained multiple business contract, collaboration and sponsorship under her leadership. The Collaboration ranged from Sydney Oprea House, Travel Company, national and local commerces to other small and medium size businesses. In the end of 2023 She is also the Artist Director of Wild Swans Ballet Suites Production by Elena Kats-Chernin in Sydney Town Hall. It is a historical moment for Australian Music as there has not been live music and dance production since its premiere in Opera House.
Oliver (Olli) Hughes (Drums and Percussion Tutor)
Oliver (Olli) Hughes is a well-established figure in the drumming community both locally and nationally. He is currently studying a Bachelor of Music (Performance) in Drum Set at the Sydney Conservatorium whilst maintaining a healthy number of both live shows and session work throughout.
He achieved his Grade 8 Trinity Drum Kit exam with a high distinction in 2019 and was also the first person in Australia to receive full marks on his Grade 7 exam the year prior.
He has worked with such acts as: Genesis Owusu, Christie Lamb, Weightless, Velvet Trip, Ghost Complex, Noah Dillon and many more whilst also being signed to labels including ABC Music, Greyscale Records and Ace Records, and having recently flown over to Japan to work at RedBull Studios.
He has contributed to soundtracks for films as well, some of which have landed him “Best Music Feature” at the 7th Music Film Awards and “Best Indie Feature” at the Berlin Indie Film Festival, and numerous other nominations.
He has a passion for music on all aspects, being a multi-instrumentalist himself and reflects his passion in his teaching and the results from his students. Whilst only 22 years old his accolades and results from his students shows how deeply he cares about his craft and caters to all skill and age levels, whilst also ensuring a proficient and well-rounded approach to music.
Olli is currently in the middle of numerous releases with his various projects whilst balancing multiple tours and headline shows. Most notably, selling out Yours and Owls NYE Festival in 2023 with an attendance of 5,000.
He achieved his Grade 8 Trinity Drum Kit exam with a high distinction in 2019 and was also the first person in Australia to receive full marks on his Grade 7 exam the year prior.
He has worked with such acts as: Genesis Owusu, Christie Lamb, Weightless, Velvet Trip, Ghost Complex, Noah Dillon and many more whilst also being signed to labels including ABC Music, Greyscale Records and Ace Records, and having recently flown over to Japan to work at RedBull Studios.
He has contributed to soundtracks for films as well, some of which have landed him “Best Music Feature” at the 7th Music Film Awards and “Best Indie Feature” at the Berlin Indie Film Festival, and numerous other nominations.
He has a passion for music on all aspects, being a multi-instrumentalist himself and reflects his passion in his teaching and the results from his students. Whilst only 22 years old his accolades and results from his students shows how deeply he cares about his craft and caters to all skill and age levels, whilst also ensuring a proficient and well-rounded approach to music.
Olli is currently in the middle of numerous releases with his various projects whilst balancing multiple tours and headline shows. Most notably, selling out Yours and Owls NYE Festival in 2023 with an attendance of 5,000.
MARY ROSE SPANAKIS (Piano and Singing)
Ms Mary Rose Spanakis, conservatorium of music graduate, life skills motivator, performer and music composer. Ms Mary is the music director at Mary's School of Music and piano and singing tutor at Diego Idarraga Academy of Music.
Mary is a music education leader with experience across a range of contexts and areas within the music pedagogy profession. She works collaboratively with music schools, families and staff to create opportunities for students to develop into creative and caring citizens who are ready for their futures in life and work after their education is completed. Mary has worked within tertiary settings where she was able to teach and support students, school leaders and teachers on their journey from elementary grades to Diploma grades in Music Performance.
Ms Mary Rose Spanakis, conservatorium of music graduate, life skills motivator, performer and music composer. Ms Mary is the music director at Mary's School of Music and piano and singing tutor at Diego Idarraga Academy of Music.
Mary is a music education leader with experience across a range of contexts and areas within the music pedagogy profession. She works collaboratively with music schools, families and staff to create opportunities for students to develop into creative and caring citizens who are ready for their futures in life and work after their education is completed. Mary has worked within tertiary settings where she was able to teach and support students, school leaders and teachers on their journey from elementary grades to Diploma grades in Music Performance.
RICHELLE BOOTH (Woodwind)
Richelle is a proficient saxophonist who has performed in all the important jazz and contemporary music venues in Australia. Her technique is vibrant and her musicality drives audiences wild. Richelle's energy is transmitted through her teaching to all her students. Richelle is an excellent clarinetist and flautist and is proficient in all musical genres.
CHRIS EVEREST (Classical and Electric Guitar and Drums)
An honours graduate of the New Zealand School of Music (NZSM), Chris Everet performed throughout the country as a classical guitar soloist (Supported by the Lankhuyzen/Whetu-Kairangi Masonic Trust and Waikanae Music Society) and chamber musician with a variety of ensemble including The New Baroque Generation (Lute/Continuo), Kohwaiwhai Duo (Classical Guitar), and Beige Brothers (Jazz Guitar). He gained prizes at the 2020 and 2022 Biennial New Zealand Classical Guitar Competition, and received the 2024 New Zealand Aspiring Guitarist award.
Since moving to Sydney in 2024 to pursue Postgraduate studies at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, Chris has performed with Sydney Guitar Collective, the Sydney Mandolin Orchestra, 2024 Federation of Australasian Mandolin Ensembles (FAME) Orchestra, in addition to several musical theatre bands (Inner West Theatre, MUSE, MACMS).
In addition to his classical training Chris studied Jazz Guitar and Theory with Nick Granville (Roger Fox Big Band) at the NZSM and received masterclasses with Larry Koonse (Seth MacFarlane Big Band) and Mark Lettieri (Snarky Puppy).
With over 7 years of professional teaching experience, receiving the teaching assistant scholarship for the 2025 Sydney Classical Guitar Summer School, Chris has taught individual and ensemble lessons in addition to theory and aural development
Since moving to Sydney in 2024 to pursue Postgraduate studies at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, Chris has performed with Sydney Guitar Collective, the Sydney Mandolin Orchestra, 2024 Federation of Australasian Mandolin Ensembles (FAME) Orchestra, in addition to several musical theatre bands (Inner West Theatre, MUSE, MACMS).
In addition to his classical training Chris studied Jazz Guitar and Theory with Nick Granville (Roger Fox Big Band) at the NZSM and received masterclasses with Larry Koonse (Seth MacFarlane Big Band) and Mark Lettieri (Snarky Puppy).
With over 7 years of professional teaching experience, receiving the teaching assistant scholarship for the 2025 Sydney Classical Guitar Summer School, Chris has taught individual and ensemble lessons in addition to theory and aural development
CECILIA PARRA (Flute, Saxophone, Clarinet and Singing)
Cecilia possesses an innate passion for music, having grown up in a profoundly musical family. From a very early age, she began her musical training with her parents, who decided to complement musical studies by joining institutional music projects in the Boyacá Music School Department. Subsequently, Cecilia entered the Tunja Conservatory of Music, where she developed skills as a flautist and musician. For nearly a decade, she held the prestigious position of first flautist, participating in symphonic and chamber ensembles. She performed in international tours and received accolades in national competitions, winning first places, such as in the ‘Young Interpreters’ competition organized by the Bank of the Republic, National Symphonic Band Competitions, and also reaching the finals of competitions such as the ‘Mono Núñez’.
Additionally, since childhood, Parra received vocal training and was a member of the choir “Los Cantores de Boyacá,” performing numerous concerts throughout Colombia and recording Christmas productions. She also belonged to the “Coro de la Escuela de Música de Tunja,” where she was one of the solo voices and served as an instrumentalist and singer in groups such as “Grupo Carisma” and “Orquesta Son Tentaciones,” performing various concerts and presentations for private and public organizations in the country over two decades. Beyond the flute and vocal skills, she has a confident command of instruments such as the recorder, saxophone, and clarinet.
Additionally, since childhood, Parra received vocal training and was a member of the choir “Los Cantores de Boyacá,” performing numerous concerts throughout Colombia and recording Christmas productions. She also belonged to the “Coro de la Escuela de Música de Tunja,” where she was one of the solo voices and served as an instrumentalist and singer in groups such as “Grupo Carisma” and “Orquesta Son Tentaciones,” performing various concerts and presentations for private and public organizations in the country over two decades. Beyond the flute and vocal skills, she has a confident command of instruments such as the recorder, saxophone, and clarinet.