Music Teachers' Association
of New South Wales

Rodney Wikstrom

Rodney Wikstrom in an Australian violin & viola performer and teacher based in Newcastle, NSW. His vision is to educate children to develop sensitivity, discipline, self esteem, creativity and patience, so that they may recognise and appreciate the beauty of music.

Rodney combines the philosophy of Dr Suzuki with the technical principles of Ivan Galamian to establish the foundations of correct posture, technique, musicality and practise.

Parents form an integral part of the learning process. A sequenced range of repertoire is used from books including Fiddle Time Joggers, Suzuki and AMEB. Students have access to accompanying video demonstrations, and are encouraged to participate in studio concerts, exams, competitions, scholarships and ensembles.

Lessons are at Newcastle Conservatorium of Music, selected schools, or online using Zoom and WeChat.

Rodney began learning Suzuki violin at age 3. He gained a music scholarship to Kinross Wolaroi School and later attended the Sydney Conservatorium High School. In 1997 he achieved the A.Mus.A and in 2002 graduated from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. He enjoyed playing and touring with the SBS Television & Radio Youth Orchestra, SYO, Youth Music Australia Orchestras and the Sydney Conservatorium Orchestra.

Rodney has performed and toured nationally and internationally with the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Victor Valdes Mariachi Band, Jimmy Barnes and Katie Noonan. Rodney currently performs with Christ Church Camerata Orchestra, Sydney Ensemble, and The Victor Valdes Mariachi band. He is a conductor with Newcastle Youth Orchestras.

Matthew Foster

Want to develop your musical creativity by learning violin, viola or cello while having loads of fun along the way? Then give me a call and together we can arranage a musical program to help meet your personal goals.

Matthew is a professionally qualified violinist with a Bachelor of Music (Honours) from the Newcastle Conservatorium of Music. Matthew believes in further enriching his own skills as teacher, performer and composer. He undertakes professional training and performs regularly with the National Capital Orchestra.

'My daughter has been having violin lessons with Matthew for the past year, he is truly a wonderful and caring teacher and I would gladly recommend him to anyone who would like to learn this instrument. A true gentleman' - Kim

'Matthew is a very patient, gentle and thorough violin teacher. My daughter enjoys learning not only the violin with Matthew, but also the finer aspects and quality of music that I believe can only be taught by an individual who is very experienced and loves what they do!!' - Melissa.

We are very grateful for all you have taught Tanya. Her technique has improved immensely. Thank you!' - Kevin & Vivien