Dr Brett McKern

Brett is an experienced teacher of theoretical and written subjects at all levels (theory, musicianship, music craft) and is available for lessons either face-to-face or via Skype. Brett also teaches composition, pipe organ, and does coaching for university and HSC music students. Brett is an accredited teacher with the MTA. While teaching at all levels, Brett specialises in teaching adults and diploma-level candidates.

Brett teaches by Skype or Zoom or at studios in Gordon or the Southern Highlands.

Brett also specialises in private tutoring for tertiary music students in a range of subjects for all music degree levels. He is happy to give advice on your compositions if preparing for that aspect of AMEB or Trinity College examinations, or submissions for the HSC. Successful students have achieved Licentiate and Associate diplomas in theory, musicianship and composition as well as the Licentiate diploma in organ.

Brett’s former students of organ, theory and composition have gone on to read for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees at various conservatoria and universities in Australia and abroad, and a number are now professional musicians. Other students have learned purely for their own enjoyment and sense of satisfaction.

Brett maintains an international career as a composer with his music being performed in at least six countries in Europe and Australasia. Within Australia, his music has been performed in four states and broadcast on radio in three. Brett is also an award-winning composer (Australia & Canada) and has published over sixty works in Australia and abroad. His music has been performed at such prestigious venues as Westminster Abbey and St Paul’s Cathedral, London; and Washington National Cathedral. Brett has been commissioned by professional soloists, liturgical choirs, school choirs and orchestras, the AMEB, and the Song Company, to name a few.

Brett holds degrees and diplomas in music, education, and two doctorates in musical composition. He has lectured at various universities rising to the rank of Adjunct Associate Professor, and examines written music grades and diplomas and online for the AMEB, as well as being called upon to examine university research and performance degrees. Brett has adjudicated multiple composition competitions, and is a Represented Composer of the Australian Music Centre.

Brett has performed as an organist and choir director in four countries, and been recorded for DVD, CD and movie soundtrack. He makes a specialty of improvisation at the organ.