10 October 2013
Auckland Music Teachers Receive Morale Boost
In an effort to boost teacher morale, X Factor host Dominic Bowden partnered with the Aotea Youth Symphony to celebrate
Auckland’s Most Noteworthy Music Teacher.
Nearly 1000 students voted in an Aotea Youth Symphony-led competition for their favourite teacher with Mrs Ronnie
Karadjov of Marist College claiming the inaugural award.
Mrs Karadjov is thrilled that Aotea Youth Symphony recognises her work.
“Sometimes I ask myself – does it have to be this hard? And then I catch that sparkle in my students’ eyes. Then I know
it is worth the effort, because what we do leaves a trace. What we do is in fact noteworthy.”
Bowden, who played the clarinet in the Aotea Youth Symphony, says that he owes a lot to the symphony his former music
teachers.
“My music teacher and the Aotea Youth Symphony really shaped my career. I’m sure that anyone who has a kid who enjoys
music knows how important it is to have people to encourage them.”
Mrs Karadjov received prizes valued at over $1000 sponsored by KBB Music and the Lewis Eady Charitable Trust.
Aotea Youth Symphony was formed in 1986 and has been conducted by Paul Harrop since its inception. It has about 65
members from the ages of 12 to early 20s and is always searching for new talent from players at Grade 5.
About Aotea Youth Symphony
Aotea Youth Symphony (AYS) was formed in 1986 after a community meeting in Mount Albert, Auckland. It was created to
provide Auckland youth with an opportunity to grow as musicians and receive valuable performance experience.
Although initially called the Mount Albert Youth Symphony, the orchestra soon attracted youth from all over Auckland and
so the name was changed to Aotea Youth Symphony.
From its beginning AYS has been led by music director Paul Harrop. Members are grade five or above in their chosen
instrument.
AYS performs several times a year at diverse locations, including on board the QE II and at the Sydney Opera House. The
orchestra also tours internationally every two years. Previous location tours include Australia, Japan, Canada, USA,
Germany, China and Tahiti.
For more information, visit www.aotea.org.nz
ENDS