Erin Dawe

Music Educator, and founder of St Helena Strings.

When did you begin playing the violin?

I started learning at the age of 4. My mum saw an advertisement for music lessons on the ‘Midday Show’ and asked if I would like to learn the violin. I loved it – I still have my first ‘1/8’ size violin, covered in stickers ;D

What are your qualifications?

I have a Bachelor of Music from Melbourne University and a Graduate Diploma of Education (Primary) from RMIT University.

I also hold Level 1 Kodaly and Level 2 Orff Schulwerk Accreditation, and am a member of the Australian String Teachers’ Association (AUSTA) and the Victorian Orff Schulwerk Association (VOSA).

I aim to undertake training in the ‘Colourstrings’ method of Strings Education in the near future.

Do you play music yourself?

Yes – definitely! I am a member of the Camerata Orchestra and Allegra Strings duo, as well as a regular performer at local events and festivals.

What do you do to relax (apart from playing the violin!)?

I love to crochet, and own a small handcrafts business called ‘Crochet and Quaver’. I also love watching ‘Twoset Violin’ videos on YouTube ;D

Why do you teach?

I love seeing my students develop in both skills and confidence, going out into the world and sharing their music with others. Whether this is performing for their grandparents, busking at the local shop, competing in an eisteddfod or sitting a formal exam. Music is made to be shared, and I’m always excited to see my students take their knowledge into the practice room, and then beyond!