My name is Anna Pollard. I am a mother of 2 and a musician of old! I have officially been playing singing, playing, and performing music since I was 5 years old. (Although if you include non-professional learning, then .. it was since my mother's womb.)
My love of learning music began at such a very young age: when I was sent for solfa lessons at a local Melbourne University. I spent many hours as far back as I can remember, listening to my parent's extensive collection of Classical Music LP's. (Thanks Mum & Dad!) We also had 4 part singing in our weekly church services, recorder, and then some flute lessons at school, and music multiple times a week at home. I had a very blessed, music-filled start to my life.
At age 12, I received a scholarship to Perth Modern Senior High School on the Oboe. There, we learnt music history, sang in choir, played in band and orchestra, learnt theory, aural, music history, composition, and of course: participated in countless performances, including a tour interstate and the honour of playing at the Sydney Opera House. I graduated with Honours in 1995, and then went on to study at WAAPA, ECU Mt Lawley, between the years 1996-1999. Whilst there, I maintained an average of just over 81%, and won several awards, including one of the very first Faith Court Scholarships, in 1996.
During my student years, I was extremely happy to have the chance to play in and with various Orchestras, Wind Ensembles, small chamber ensembles, the Army Band, and sing in various Choirs. More recently, I spent several years in country Australia, thoroughly enjoying helping to put on Concerts, co-conduct the local choir, and helped run some Music Appreciation Classes. I also performed there as a soloist on the Classical Recorder, rehashing my old Oboe Concertos on this divine instrument, so often maligned!
Fast forward and I am now the proud parent of a 22 year old daughter (an artist who nevertheless plays the clarinet and saxophone), and a 20 year old son, (who rocks the drums and composition). Getting older, I find myself contemplating my love of music, and my hope now is to pass this on to as many people that would like to learn. The absolute sheer joy of learning and playing music, is something that every field agrees is good for you. It connects the dots in our brains and our hearts in a way that not many other activities achieve.
Thank you for visiting my website, and I hope you find in music some source of joy, meaning, and connection. Please don't hesitate to be in touch. I look forward to hearing from you!