Nadje Noordhuis, trumpet M.M., Manhattan School of Music B.M., Victorian College of the Arts, Australia B.A., Southern Cross University, Australia “My philosophy is that music lessons must be fun, students must learn at their own pace, and play repertoire that interests them.” Nadje Noordhuis began studying piano at the young age of two and later began the trumpet at age seven. “My piano teacher’s husband was a classical trumpet player and I loved the instrument’s sound.” Nadje grew up in Australia, living both in Sydney and Melbourne, and moved to New York to pursue graduate music studies at Manhattan School of Music. “My philosophy is that music lessons must be fun, students must learn at their own pace, and play repertoire that interests them. I love improvisation and composition, and encourage these amongst my students,” says Nadje of her teaching approach. Nadje enjoys teaching students of all ages, from six to adult. With all her students, Nadje incorporates a tremendous amount of listening, familiar tunes, and “lots of fun!” In addition to private teaching, Nadje has extensive experience working with ensembles including concert and jazz bands. As part of her work with the Manhattan School of Music Educational Outreach Program, Nadje co-taught and developed an inaugural eighth grade jazz band at the Robert Wagner Middle School. “I have enjoyed seeing my students surpass their musical goals and have witnessed the subsequent positive effects on their confidence and self-esteem.” Nadje cites the music of Mahler, Ennio Morricone, Kenny Wheeler, and Pat Metheny among her favorites. “It doesn't matter if it's classical, jazz, world, or film music. I love any music with beautiful melodies.” She is a versatile performer, participating in a wide-range of ensembles from big bands to afro-cuban jazz groups. “Any music that is written and played with passion always moves me. I strive to convey the emotion of every piece that I am playing.” In addition to teaching, performing, and studying music, Nadje enjoys knitting, doing yoga, walking in the park “and continuing my quest to find New York’s finest dessert!”