Wilma Smith: Life Lessons

Every child in my primary school learnt a musical instrument. I was taught in a group by Helen Hopkins, the leader of the Auckland Symphonia. I have no idea how our music teacher did it. Not only did he provide tuition to all students, but he also got the very best teachers. I would love for all children to have instrumental tuition. It’s a life-changer that has all sorts of impacts. My first private teacher, Violet Lewis, was a tennis fanatic, and I have vivid memories of her talking about how the tennis swing and follow-through relate to violin playing. I still teach this today. I was very lucky to have such great teachers in little old New Zealand!