Anne Maroussia Filimoehala

“I work as a violin tutor at Sistema Aotearoa, a music and social development programme based in Ōtara, South Auckland. From technique in posture to playing style, my teaching is inspired by how I was taught violin in the School of Music. What’s most rewarding in my role is seeing how much my students progress. In the long-term, my goal is to start my own music academy.”

“Music is everything to me. When my parents came to New Zealand from Tonga, music was all they had. Music brings my family together and it’s a common ground for everyone. It is without a doubt the reason why I chose to follow a career as a musician.”

“Throughout my degree, I completed many lessons in chamber music, conducting, choir, brass ensemble, string ensemble, and orchestra, in addition to solo performance. I was also very lucky to be a part of a baroque ensemble in my honours year and to make life-long friends through chamber groups.”

“The lecturers and tutors in the School of Music are all very friendly. To see how much they vouch for their students was really valuable. I’m so grateful for the support they offered.”

“In 2022, I had the incredible experience of conducting musicians of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra as part of the Pasifika Conductors Masterclass. Till this day, I can’t believe how fortunate I was. We received guidance from an internationally renowned conductor but what stood out to me was how the musicians were so helpful and down to earth. It was the experience of a lifetime.”