VIVA TEACHERS
Andreana hails from a prestigious lineage of Jazz musicians, with both her father and mother being esteemed performers and educators in Europe. Displaying prodigious talent, she embarked on her musical journey at the tender age of 3, mastering the piano. She went on to achieve a Bachelor of Music in Classical Piano, and then immersing herself in the world of Jazz and Contemporary genres, where she excelled and earned a coveted diploma in Jazz Studies. With an impressive teaching career spanning over 15 years, Andreana's expertise extends far beyond being a skilled performer; she is a versatile pianist, a captivating singer, and a visionary composer. Her musical prowess is showcased through her captivating performances as an integral member of a highly acclaimed trio in Melbourne. Notably, Andreana's exceptional guidance has propelled her students to achieve remarkable results in various music examinations. Furthermore, she has demonstrated her exceptional leadership abilities by conducting big bands and school ensembles. Recognised for her warm and amiable demeanour, Andreana's genuine care and unwavering dedication to each student's growth have garnered her immense popularity as an esteemed teacher at Viva.
ANDREANA
piano/composition/singing
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Felicity is a highly accomplished musician who has been passionate about music since childhood. She completed her Associate Diploma of Music at the young age of 16 and went on to complete a Bachelor of Music (Classical Performance) at Monash University, where she honed her skills and developed a deep appreciation for musicality, tone, and expression.
As a music teacher, Felicity shares her love of music with her students. She believes that music is not only a beautiful art form but also a means of self-expression and connecting with others. Felicity is committed to helping her students develop their musical skills, whether they are learning for leisure or pursuing formal exams like AMEB.
In addition to teaching, Felicity is also an accomplished composer. She enjoys adapting various genres of music for piano and tailoring her compositions to suit the interests and abilities of her students. By doing so, she inspires her students and helps them develop a highly polished sound for exams or pleasure.
Felicity is a dedicated and passionate musician who is committed to sharing her love of music with others. Whether teaching or composing, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to everything she does, and we are honoured to have her as part of the Viva teaching team.
FELICITY
piano/accompaniment
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Tom has a Bachelor of Music Performance (Degree with Honours) from the University of Melbourne/VCA. He has been teaching students for many years from beginner to VCE level. He has taught students at the highly acclaimed Mac. Robertson Girls High School, taking students in classical guitar and also in several after school programs teaching both contemporary, jazz and improvisation on both electric and acoustic guitar. Tom’s lessons are tailored to the individual student, with each having a consistent plan including instrumental technique and repertoire and a dose of fun. He enjoys helping students express their creativity by giving them exercises to help refine their technique and encouraging them to explore repertoire that inspires them.
Tom is also a working musician and songwriter. He is involved in a jazz trio that has recently released an EP of original works and he plays weekly at Brunswick Green on Sydney Road. Tom’s main focus as a teacher is to help students develop a relationship with their instrument, where they are inspired to practice and be creative.
Giovanni studied musical pedagogy and classical guitar, obtaining a Master of Music from the Conservatory of Music and Theatre in Rostock, Germany. He later pursued further studies at the Liceu Conservatory of Barcelona in Spain, which included the study of flamenco guitar.
In 2009, he recorded his first album with the Duo Encuentro, and the following year began touring throughout Peru, Lima, and Germany. His second album, entitled Duo Matizes, received great acclaim throughout Europe and continued his passion for South American rhythms and Spanish flamenco music as pop music.
Giovanni is a highly experienced music teacher, specialising in guitar, ukulele, electric guitar, bass, and beginner piano. He has taught in many prestigious schools around the globe, including the Johannes-Brahms Music Conservatory and the Bergstedt Music Academy in Hamburg, Germany.
Since moving to Melbourne in 2018, Giovanni has been teaching in various private schools, preparing students for AMEB exams, concerts, and competitions. He continues to regularly perform throughout Melbourne with various instrumentalists and his guitar duo, Son Candela.
Giovanni's love of music is infectious and he is a welcome addition to the Viva teaching team.
GIOVANNI
guitar/ukulele/piano/VCE
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Lucy began her musical journey at the age of six with violin lessons, soon adding piano to her repertoire. At twelve, she discovered her true passion - singing. After eight years of studying clarinet, Lucy commenced her studies at the prestigious Melbourne Conservatorium of Music as a clarinettist, later transitioning to focus on classical voice, where she completed her Bachelor degree.
Her exceptional talent has been recognised through various accolades, including the Muriel Cheek Memorial Scholarship for excellence in Performance in 2022. That same year, she performed in the University of Melbourne Symphony Orchestra's rendition of Mahler's Symphony No. 2 as a chorus member. Lucy has also featured prominently in Melbourne Conservatorium's chamber choirs, both as an ensemble member and soloist.
Currently pursuing her Honours degree at Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, Lucy has been awarded a Supplementary Scholarship in the Opera Scholars Australia program for 2025.
Through her extensive training with Melbourne University's distinguished professors and educators, she has developed a deep understanding of music pedagogy. Lucy is thrilled to share her knowledge and passion for music with the students at Viva School of Music.
LUCY
singing/piano/clarinet
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Dr. Nessyah Buder Gallagher holds degrees in music performance and music education from Northwestern University, ethnomusicology from the University of Miami, and saxophone performance from Shenandoah Conservatory. She has studied with renowned saxophonists Fred Hemke, Dale Underwood, and Timothy Roberts. In 2016, she co-founded Re-Joyce!, an all-women's music collective that performed as part of the Rosh Chodesh Society's Art and Soul course in August 2018. Dr. Gallagher has been involved in various jazz, classical, and contemporary music ensembles, including the Northbrook Symphony Orchestra, Fairfax Wind Symphony, Doahnamics Saxophone Quartet, Melbourne Saxophone Ensemble, 100SAX, and the Equilibrium Saxophone Quartet. She has also participated in music competitions, festivals, clinics, and masterclasses, such as the International Saxophone Symposium in Washington, D.C., and the North American Saxophone Alliance quartet competition. Dr. Gallagher has conducted the Phi Mu Alpha Community Jazz Band, served as a marching band clinician, adjudicated sectionals and all-district band, directed saxophone ensembles, and taught various classes and private students in saxophone, music theory, music history, composition, clarinet, recorder, piano, voice, flute, trumpet, and guitar. During her time at Northwestern, she served as the Artistic Director of the Northwestern University Saxophone Ensemble. Currently, Dr. Gallagher is pursuing a PhD in musicology at the University of Melbourne, focusing on the history of the concert saxophone in Australia.
Nessyah is highly regarded by her students, and we are privileged to have such a skilled musician and teacher as part of the Viva teaching team.
NESSYAH
piano/singing/guitar/ukulele/clarinet/saxophone/flute/trumpet
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Sala is a highly skilled musician with over 25 years of experience playing the drums and guitar. He holds a holds a master's degree in Philosophy of Art and Music from Tehran University and has received a Certificate III in Education Support from Bendigo TAFE in 2022.
Sala has taught drums, percussion, guitar, and music history for over 11 years, including 7 years at music schools across Tehran and 4 years teaching in high schools and primary schools throughout Victoria.
As a performer, Sala has played in various bands of different styles such as jazz, pop, rock, reggae, Latin, and metal, and has played at many prestigious venues and festivals throughout Australia over the past decade, including the Melbourne International Jazz Festival, Newport Jazz Festival, Port Fairy Jazz Festival, Australian State Festival, and Fringe Music Festival.
Sala is a highly qualified and skilled musician and educator who can inspire and teach students of all ages and backgrounds. In addition to drum teaching, Sala also teaches guitar, making him a versatile and valuable addition to any music education program. Viva School of Music is excited to have him as part of the Viva teaching team.
SALA
drums/guitar/composition
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Pat is a Melbourne-based drummer and percussionist currently completing a Bachelor of Music at Monash University. He has performed at a variety of venues throughout the city, including Government House, The Jazzlab, The Paris Cat Jazz Club, and the Wesley Anne.
Raised in a musically-rich environment, Pat began playing his musical endeavours by playing the piano and was exposed to a broad spectrum of music genres, from doom and heavy metal to baroque and contemporary classical music. His introduction percussion/drums and onto jazz began in secondary school, and his education under Australian luminaries like Dave Beck and Darryn Farrugia expanded his knowledge to funk, Brazilian, Cuban, and modern jazz, while maintaining his passion for classic rock and pop music.
As a warm, caring, and engaging teacher, Pat is capable of teaching a variety of styles and guiding students through the AMEB rock school system and VCE. He is committed to sharing his love of music with anyone eager to learn, holding the belief that everyone should have the opportunity to learn and enjoy playing music. We're thrilled to have Pat as part of the Viva teaching team.
PATRICK
drums/piano
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Finn Cooney is a versatile and accomplished musician with an extensive background in classical music. His experience spans multiple performances with prestigious institutions such as the Chamber Philharmonie of Cologne, the Australian International Opera Orchestra, the Lyric Opera Company, and the Asko Schoenberg Ensemble. He has also taken part in hundreds of chamber recitals, both domestically and internationally. Finn holds an honours degree (distinction grade) from the University of Tasmania and a Masters Degree in Music from the Conservatorium Van Amsterdam. With over 10 years of teaching experience, he has educated students of all ages in violin, viola, piano, and guitar. He has successfully taken students through the AMEB system, preparing them for concerts, auditions, scholarships, and VCE. As a passionate educator and performer, Finn is thrilled to join the Viva School of Music. He is dedicated to helping students and parents achieve their goals, whether it be mastering an instrument, excelling in exams, or pursuing a career in music. With his extensive knowledge and expertise, Finn is a welcomed addition to the Viva School of Music Teaching Team.
FINN
violin/viola/piano/guitar/music production
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Isobel is a dynamic music educator who brings creativity and
playfulness to her teaching practice. She holds a Bachelor of Music from Monash University and recently completed her Masters of Teaching from the University of Melbourne, combining strong musical foundations with contemporary pedagogical approaches.
As an educator, Isobel pushes the boundaries of conventional music education, encouraging students to explore their unique musical voice. Her teaching philosophy emphasises the importance of audition, self-sufficiency, and creative freedom, ensuring students develop the confidence to pursue self-initiated practice and musical exploration. Whether teaching voice or instruments, she creates a supportive environment where students feel empowered to make creative choices and execute their unique ideas. Her adaptable teaching style responds to individual student goals, making music education accessible and engaging for learners of all backgrounds.
Beyond teaching, Isobel is an active musician and songwriter, currently performing as vocalist and rhythm guitarist in her band. She is in the process of writing and recording an EP, continuously expanding her musical horizons through learning new instruments and creating original compositions.
We are excited to have Isobel part of the amazing teaching team at Viva.
REBEKAH
singing/violin/piano
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Tynan is an accomplished percussion musician with a wealth of teaching experience. He possesses a remarkable ability to connect with his students and inspire them to excel in their drumming journey. Tynan's warm and friendly demeanour creates a supportive and encouraging learning environment, fostering growth and development for students of all levels.
Throughout his career, Tynan has guided numerous students to success in various endeavours, including competitions, scholarships, auditions, and AMEB exams. His expertise and dedication have proven invaluable in helping students achieve their musical goals. Tynan's teaching style emphasises a strong foundation, technical proficiency, and musical expression.
Currently pursuing a Bachelor in Education at Monash University, Tynan continues to expand his knowledge and refine his teaching skills. His commitment to ongoing professional development ensures that his students receive the highest quality instruction.
Whether you are a beginner seeking a solid musical foundation or an advanced player looking to refine your skills, Tynan is a teacher who can guide you on your musical journey with expertise, passion, and enthusiasm.
We are excited to have him part of the Viva teaching team.
TYNAN
drumkit
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Kym is a versatile musician and educator with a limitless curiosity for music and a diverse skill set spanning classical training, contemporary performance, and innovative music technology. She holds a Graduate Certificate in Music Studies (Voice Pedagogy) and a Bachelor of Music (Piano) from the Queensland Conservatorium of Music, and more recently spend time delving into electronic music production and audio engineering at Berlin’s renowned Funkhaus.
Originally classically trained, Kym now also specialises in musical theatre and fostering well-rounded, passionate musicians through her teaching. As a piano teacher and vocal coach, her approach is inclusive and adaptable, accommodating students from a variety of backgrounds, including those with special needs and limited English. She brings together a blend of traditional expertise and modern ideas to her lessons, aiming to inspire and educate musicians at every stage of their learning.
Beyond teaching, Kym is an active performer, arranger, music directer, and songwriter, with a fascination for global music styles. She is an experienced accompanist and collaborative pianist with both classical and contemporary music, having played for exams, performances, full musicals and private functions. On top of that, she is also Co-Creator of Audition Vocal Toolbox, a mobile app committed to encouraging healthy, effective and accessible vocal training. We are very excited to have Kym part of the Viva teaching team.
KYM
piano/singing/ukulele/composition
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Camila is an exceptional Colombian violinist with a a Bachelor's Degree in Music Teaching from the Industrial University of Santander in Colombia. She holds an impressive educational background, having completed a Master of Teaching (Secondary) at Australian Catholic University in Melbourne and a Diploma in Methodology for Teaching Violin and Viola from the Autonomous University of Bucaramanga, Colombia.
Camilla performs as a member of Mariachi Los Romanticos, a renowned ensemble based in Melbourne. Prior to her time in Australia, Camila showcased her skills as a violin tutti with the prestigious UNAB Symphonic Orchestra in Colombia, playing both classical and Andean folk music.
Her teaching style is warm and friendly, creating a nurturing environment for her students to learn and grow. She has successfully guided her students through the AMEB examinations and has prepared them for concerts, competitions, and scholarships.
Camila's dedication to teaching and her exceptional musical abilities make her an invaluable asset to the Viva teaching team.
CAMILLA
violin/piano/guitar
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Tom has a Bachelor of Music Performance (Degree with Honours) from the University of Melbourne/VCA. He has been teaching students for many years from beginner to VCE level. He has taught students at the highly acclaimed Mac. Robertson Girls High School, taking students in classical guitar and also in several after school programs teaching both contemporary, jazz and improvisation on both electric and acoustic guitar. Tom’s lessons are tailored to the individual student, with each having a consistent plan including instrumental technique and repertoire and a dose of fun. He enjoys helping students express their creativity by giving them exercises to help refine their technique and encouraging them to explore repertoire that inspires them.
Tom is also a working musician and songwriter. He is involved in a jazz trio that has recently released an EP of original works and he plays weekly at Brunswick Green on Sydney Road. Tom’s main focus as a teacher is to help students develop a relationship with their instrument, where they are inspired to practice and be creative.
A graduate of the prestigious Berklee College of Music with a Bachelor's degree in Music (Summa Cum Laude), Hilloc’s teaching journey spans over a decade. His pedagogical experience began at Forte School of Music, where he demonstrated exceptional ability in adapting curriculum for students of all ages and skill levels. As a piano tutor, he successfully managed group classes of up to seven students while also providing specialised one-on-one instruction for intermediate to advanced players preparing for AMEB examinations.
Hilloc’s teaching expertise extends beyond traditional piano instruction. At Berklee College of Music, he served as a Technology Trainer, providing comprehensive instruction in music software and digital audio workstations (DAWs). His role at Guitar Center as an Instructor further showcased his versatility, teaching both guitar technique and piano performance to students of varying skill levels. Hilloc also studied voice at Berkeley and worked closely with high school and early undergraduate students at the College, training and conducting them.
His unique combination of computer science knowledge and classical piano training allows him to bridge the gap between traditional music education and modern music technology. This blend of skills has proven invaluable in his work at various institutions, including the West End House Boys and Girls Club, where he led innovative music programs in beat-making and music production.
Hilloc’s commitment to education is further evidenced by his role as a Student Academic Mentor at Berklee, where he guided entering students and collaborated with faculty to develop and present educational workshops. His experience in both individual and group instruction settings, combined with his extensive knowledge of music production and technology, makes him an invaluable addition to our teaching staff.
With his extensive background in music education and production, Hilloc brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, as well as a proven ability to inspire and engage learners of all ages and abilities to Viva. We are thrilled to welcome Hilloc to the Viva School of Music teaching team.
HILLOC
piano/guitar/voice/sound production
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Tom has a Bachelor of Music Performance (Degree with Honours) from the University of Melbourne/VCA. He has been teaching students for many years from beginner to VCE level. He has taught students at the highly acclaimed Mac. Robertson Girls High School, taking students in classical guitar and also in several after school programs teaching both contemporary, jazz and improvisation on both electric and acoustic guitar. Tom’s lessons are tailored to the individual student, with each having a consistent plan including instrumental technique and repertoire and a dose of fun. He enjoys helping students express their creativity by giving them exercises to help refine their technique and encouraging them to explore repertoire that inspires them.
Tom is also a working musician and songwriter. He is involved in a jazz trio that has recently released an EP of original works and he plays weekly at Brunswick Green on Sydney Road. Tom’s main focus as a teacher is to help students develop a relationship with their instrument, where they are inspired to practice and be creative.
Georgina hails from Sydney with a Bachelor of Music (Performance) from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.
She has always had a deep love for music, starting from a young age when she would joyfully sing around the house. Her musical journey began at the age of 5 with piano lessons, and she later picked up the flute at the age of 8. Music quickly became a central part of her life, serving as both a passion and a means of connection and socialisation.
Even at a young age, Georgina displayed remarkable talent, earning recognition and accolades. At just 14 years old, she won the prestigious Open Age 'Aulos' Society woodwind prize, impressing audiences with her skills. She was also awarded the Margaret Chalmers Memorial Scholarship and had the honour of being featured on the Young Performer 2MBS-FM broadcast and performing as a soloist at the Opera House for the Arts Unit Festival.
Georgina continued to nurture her musical abilities by attending the Conservatorium high school. There, she achieved a distinction in her AMusA at the age of 15 and received her LMusA on flute at 16. During her time at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, she had the opportunity to tour Spain with the orchestra, which was a memorable experience.
With over 10 years of teaching experience, Georgina is passionate about sharing her love for music with her students. She finds joy in every lesson, striving to engage and inspire her students to discover their own musical talents.
GEORGINA
flute/piano
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Tom has a Bachelor of Music Performance (Degree with Honours) from the University of Melbourne/VCA. He has been teaching students for many years from beginner to VCE level. He has taught students at the highly acclaimed Mac. Robertson Girls High School, taking students in classical guitar and also in several after school programs teaching both contemporary, jazz and improvisation on both electric and acoustic guitar. Tom’s lessons are tailored to the individual student, with each having a consistent plan including instrumental technique and repertoire and a dose of fun. He enjoys helping students express their creativity by giving them exercises to help refine their technique and encouraging them to explore repertoire that inspires them.
Tom is also a working musician and songwriter. He is involved in a jazz trio that has recently released an EP of original works and he plays weekly at Brunswick Green on Sydney Road. Tom’s main focus as a teacher is to help students develop a relationship with their instrument, where they are inspired to practice and be creative.
Tamara is a passionate and nurturing cello teacher with extensive experience in both classical and contemporary music. Her kind and generous teaching style, combined with her drive for excellence, makes her an invaluable addition to the Viva School of Music teaching team. As a member of the Melbourne Opera Orchestra since 2017, she has performed in numerous operas featuring works by renowned composers including Wagner, Bellini, Rossini, and Beethoven.
Her diverse musical journey spans continents, having performed with various ensembles in Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and Serbia. As a former member of the Radio Television of Serbia Symphony Orchestra, Tamara developed a deep understanding of orchestral performance and collaborated with numerous chamber groups including the Zemun Chamber Orchestra, Trio 'Amabile,' and Quintet 'Aquarelle'.
Beyond classical music, Tamara is an active composer and electronic music producer. She is a registered APRA|AMCOS writer/composer and has created original soundtracks for commercial campaigns. Her innovative approach to music is exemplified through her work with TNT Electric Trio, where she served as co-founder, co-writer, and cellist.
Tamara's exceptional teaching experience includes positions at primary and high school levels in Serbia, where her encouraging and student-centred approach led her students to achieve first and second place awards in Serbian National competitions. Her teaching philosophy emphasises building confidence while maintaining high standards, creating an environment where students can thrive and develop their musical abilities. She holds a Master's degree in Cello Performance from the Philology and Art University in Kragujevac, Serbia, and has attended masterclasses with renowned cellists including Mischa Maisky and Ksenija Jankovic.
Currently, Tamara is expanding her compositional expertise as a member of the Screen Music Guild of New Zealand, where she is mentored by acclaimed Hollywood film composer Graeme Revell. We are thrilled to welcome her warm, dedicated presence to our teaching team.
TAMARA
cello
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Tom has a Bachelor of Music Performance (Degree with Honours) from the University of Melbourne/VCA. He has been teaching students for many years from beginner to VCE level. He has taught students at the highly acclaimed Mac. Robertson Girls High School, taking students in classical guitar and also in several after school programs teaching both contemporary, jazz and improvisation on both electric and acoustic guitar. Tom’s lessons are tailored to the individual student, with each having a consistent plan including instrumental technique and repertoire and a dose of fun. He enjoys helping students express their creativity by giving them exercises to help refine their technique and encouraging them to explore repertoire that inspires them.
Tom is also a working musician and songwriter. He is involved in a jazz trio that has recently released an EP of original works and he plays weekly at Brunswick Green on Sydney Road. Tom’s main focus as a teacher is to help students develop a relationship with their instrument, where they are inspired to practice and be creative.
Misha is an accomplished music educator with extensive experience teaching primary students in international schools. Her teaching journey showcases a deep commitment to music education and student development.
Misha holds a Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Music from LASALLE College of the Arts, Singapore, complemented by a Diploma in Music from the same institution. Her dedication to education is shown by her continued study of her Masters of Teaching at Deakin University in Melbourne.
At Invictus International School, Misha taught music to students from Years 1-7, following the Cambridge curriculum. She managed diverse classrooms and directed impressive assembly performances throughout the academic year, including winter and graduation concerts.
During her tenure at EtonHouse International School, Misha implemented the IB Programme, demonstrating her versatility in adapting to different educational frameworks. She led music clubs, coordinated school performances, and introduced students to music technology.
Her experience extends to individual instruction at Aureus Academy, where she taught private and group lessons in vocals, piano, and music exploration to students of all ages. Her innovative teaching methods incorporated interactive games and activities to enhance student engagement.
At Perfect Pitch Music School, Misha excelled as a vocal teacher, guiding students through Rock and Pop Trinity examinations with a teaching methodology that emphasises both technical excellence and creative expression.
Viva School of Music is excited to welcome Misha to their teaching team.
MISHA
voice/piano
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