About
Sally Hillier is a Classical Guitarist with over 40 years of experience in teaching and performing. She completed her B.Mus (Perf.) at NSW Conservatorium in 1987 before continuing her studies with Leo Brouwer, John Mills and Gilbert Biberian in Spain and the UK. While mainly a classical player, Sally has also played Flamenco, Folk and other styles of music which influence her interpretations of classical pieces.
Sally has given many solo recitals covering a wide range of guitar repertoire in Australia, New Zealand, Sweden and the UK. She has recorded as soloist and in duo, and has performed regularly with various ensembles including the contemporary music group The PM Ensemble; The Umbrella Collection, a Cardiff-based organisation dedicated to commissioning and performing new music, and as accompanist with the early music ensemble La Musica.
From 1998-2006 she was registered as National Advisor to the Arts Council of Wales in the area of Chamber Music
approach
Sally’s approach to teaching is based on her belief that enthusiasm and enjoyment are the key to good music making. Lessons are based on classical technique and musicality, and can include elements of other acoustic styles such as flamenco, blues, folk or song accompaniment. Music theory is taught in a practical way that relates to the student’s repertoire.
As a student you will be encouraged to work at a pace that is suited to your own needs and abilities while exploring a wide range of repertoire. You’ll receive guidance on how best to practise and you will have the opportunity to sit for grade exams if you choose.
Students of all levels and ages are welcome.
CHAMBER GROUP LESSONS
Sally formed the Chamber Group at Dulwich High School in response to a need for an ensemble that would include acoustic guitars. Since then, this unique ensemble has gone from strength to strength and includes students from years 7 to 12 who play a diverse range of instruments. They perform regularly at school events and local festivals.
Drawing on her own performing experience, Sally sources and arranges repertoire to suit the particular instrumentation of the group as well as the range of abilities of the players.
Please get in touch if you would like to know more about forming a chamber group at your school.
Testimonials
“Sally is a wonderful patient teacher. Our daughter has developed a solid classical guitar technique under her guidance using a wide repertoire including contemporary pieces. We couldn’t have found a better teacher for our daughter whom she has taught for four years.”
– Sam Wong
“Sally is a good guitar teacher because she makes me want to play guitar and she is fun and understands my sense of humour. I now practice every day and look forward to see her again and get a sticker!”
– Filip Rusidi Nedic
“Sally Hillier teaches is the best guitar teacher I came across in Sydney. She is particularly good with children who have difficulty concentrating. With her gentle guidance my child is now enjoying guitar lessons and is remembering to practice every day.”
– Natalija Rusidi
“Sally has helped me make quite a bit of progress with her friendly and professional style and ability to tailor lessons to my skill level.”
– Peter Coombes
“Why should we learn music? Because music is good!”
