2025 Student of the Year Awards

Every year, we pause to recognize something we see quietly, week after week, in our studio.

Not talent. Not perfection.

Commitment. Curiosity. Steady growth.

The kind of progress that comes from showing up, trying again, and slowly becoming more confident in your own abilities.

This year’s finalists embody exactly that.

Their teachers nominated them because of who they are as learners, not just how they play.

Here are the 2025 finalists and award recipients:

PocoMuso Student of the Year Finalist

Arya

Arya approaches piano with a level of enthusiasm that is unmistakable the moment she sits at the instrument.

She arrives prepared, keen, and always ready for the next step. Lessons move quickly with her, because she is curious and fully engaged in every activity.

Arya practises consistently at home, usually five to six days a week, and tracks everything carefully in her journal. She often completes more than what was asked, learning ahead or exploring pieces on her own. She memorises easily and performs confidently, whether in lessons or at concerts.

Since joining MMA, Arya has developed a more relaxed technique, especially through her butterfly-wrist work, and she continues to play with care, focus, and joy. She is committed, punctual, willing to try, and never discouraged by challenge.

Nominated alongside:

• Rohan

• Ella

• Benjamin

MezzoMuso Student of the Year Finalist

Isla

Isla brings maturity and quiet determination to every harp lesson. She listens closely, applies feedback well, and is willing to put in the sustained work that real progress requires.

This year, Isla spent six to seven months refining a single performance piece. What began with uncertain notes and rhythms transformed into an accurate, expressive work, played at a confident tempo. Her dedication earned her an Outstanding at the Eisteddfod, a testament to her persistence and high personal standards.

Isla’s commitment is remarkable for her age, and her teacher sees it clearly each week.

Nominated alongside:

• Elizabeth

• Matthew

• Alice

AltoMuso Student of the Year Finalist

Darja

Darja is one of our most devoted adult harp students. She attends weekly one-hour lessons, rarely misses a session, and approaches challenges with openness and good humour. She joined both group classes this year and took each experience in stride, even when it meant stepping outside her comfort zone.

Since starting harp only last year, Darja’s musical development has been exceptional. Her reading skills have strengthened to the point where she no longer needs note-names written in. Her rhythm has become steadier, and her tone has softened as she learned to release tension and play with more grace.

Her progress reflects consistent work, attention, and a genuine love of learning.

Student of the Year

Meg

Meg is an outstanding student whose approach to music is thoughtful, organised, and deeply committed. She shows care in every detail of her playing and brings a quiet determination to each lesson.

Her attendance and practice routine are exemplary. As a result, Meg’s confidence has grown, her reading skills have strengthened, and her playing has become more expressive and refined. Meg now learns pieces independently, reads rhythms accurately, and manages both clefs with ease.

This year, Meg also extended her musicianship beyond lessons. She joined a harp ensemble and began performing weekly at her local aged care facility, sharing music generously and bravely. These experiences have sharpened her sight-reading, expanded her performance skills, and nurtured her confidence.

Meg brings grace, curiosity, and a true love for the harp. Her commitment shines in everything she does, and we are incredibly proud of her achievements.

Congratulations to every finalist, nominee, and student who has worked steadily this year.

Progress in music is rarely loud. It grows quietly, one practice session at a time, and these students remind us how meaningful that journey can be.

If you would like to learn more about our programs or how we support students of all ages, we are always happy to help.