Jacqueline McPherson | Music / Performing Arts

Jacqui is currently a first-year student at the University of Waikato, where she is completing a BMus in Flute Performance and a BSc in Computer Science. While she plays a few instruments, flute is her main passion.
Having moved around in her school years, she gained experience from several teachers, giving her the opportunity to learn many techniques. Eventually settling in Palmerston North, she completed her ATCL in Flute Performance in Year 13. She took some time off before continuing education, using it to travel and complete her LTCL, achieving Distinction. She also taught flute and piano at Soundworks Music School, which is where she realised her passion for teaching music. She believes music is not only important for expressing emotions or telling a story but is also a fantastic way to develop one’s self personally and mentally. It allows a student to learn discipline and commitment, lets them work as part of a team and gives them a way to express themselves without judgement.
Her main belief is that a teacher should not only give the technical skills to a student but should also be supportive while pushing them to do their best. They should help foster creativity while actualising their potential but most importantly making sure they are enjoying every part of the experience.
Aside from music she also enjoys problem solving by coding and is very interested in how technology might help humanity develop. She would eventually like to travel the world, play in an orchestra and develop music programmes in schools and communities.