2024 - Senior Piano

Susan Smith

Susan was born and educated in Auckland. After gaining both LRSM and FTCL she completed her formal studies in London, UK, gaining her ARCM. She studied Piano with Phyllis Sellick, and Accompanying with Ivor Newton.

On her return to NZ in the 1970’s she immersed herself in all aspects of teaching, including being Director of Music at Avondale College. Also, as a member of the NZ Institute of Registered Music Teachers, currently serving on the Auckland Council, Susan has given Seminars and adjudicated many of their Scholarship Classes. She has also adjudicated throughout NZ for many of the NZ Performing Arts Competition Societies.

Susan has also enjoyed her role as an accompanist, accompanying many of the Country’s leading singers. She resigned from her position as Director of Music at Avondale College in 2003, to return to her private practice, and is currently enjoying playing an active role in the Diocesan School for Girls, Music Department. She was also the Chairperson for the Dame Malvina Major Foundation, Auckland Regional Committee, a position that she resigned from November 2019, but has remained on the Committee in a consultancy role. In 1991 Susan was appointed to the International Examining Panel, of The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music, resulting in Tours of NZ and many overseas countries, a position she enjoyed for 28 years.

In 2004 she received an ONZM for services to music.