Music graduate keeps hitting the high notes

UCOL Wairarapa music student Courtney Brown did so well on the contemporary music programme she helped mentor other students and returned as a tutor.

Courtney brings a valuable set of skills to the programme which started at the Masterton campus just last year.

She's a talented singer and keyboard player - and also writes her own songs.

At the age of 21 and based in Carterton, she already has six years of training in classical singing and welcomed the opportunity to upskill further and extend her range.

"The programme covered a lot of ground during the year, and a mixture of styles, which was valuable."

Ms Brown praised her tutors, including course leader Cody Field, singing tutor Hannah McGrail and Warren Maxwell of Trinity Roots and Little Bushman.

"He taught me so much. We also got to record in his studio. He's just one reason why the Wairarapa is a great place for a musician."

With other students on the programme, Ms Brown played in one of four bands and specialised in keyboard and singing.

She also upped her understanding of other instruments while working with classmates and said her studies were helped by placing her young daughter in the UCOL Kidz Centre. Since finishing her UCOL studies, she has found new avenues for her musical talents.

"I am currently working at Solway College, taking their singing ensemble group and their choir," she said.

"It's fantastic and I have been asked by some of the girls if I can also give them private lessons."

Ms Brown has also joined the UCOL Wairarapa teaching team as a vocal tutor.

"I also do an hour lesson on keyboard skills for the contemporary music class. It's great they have kept me on and I'm really enjoying being part of the class environment again."