Rodney Wikstrom

Rodney Wikstrom in an Australian violin & viola performer and teacher based in Newcastle, NSW. His vision is to educate children to develop sensitivity, discipline, self esteem, creativity and patience, so that they may recognise and appreciate the beauty of music.

Rodney combines the philosophy of Dr Suzuki with the technical principles of Ivan Galamian to establish the foundations of correct posture, technique, musicality and practise.

Parents form an integral part of the learning process. A sequenced range of repertoire is used from books including Fiddle Time Joggers, Suzuki and AMEB. Students have access to accompanying video demonstrations, and are encouraged to participate in studio concerts, exams, competitions, scholarships and ensembles.

Lessons are at Newcastle Conservatorium of Music, selected schools, or online using Zoom and WeChat.

Rodney began learning Suzuki violin at age 3. He gained a music scholarship to Kinross Wolaroi School and later attended the Sydney Conservatorium High School. In 1997 he achieved the A.Mus.A and in 2002 graduated from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. He enjoyed playing and touring with the SBS Television & Radio Youth Orchestra, SYO, Youth Music Australia Orchestras and the Sydney Conservatorium Orchestra.

Rodney has performed and toured nationally and internationally with the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Victor Valdes Mariachi Band, Jimmy Barnes and Katie Noonan. Rodney currently performs with Christ Church Camerata Orchestra, Sydney Ensemble, and The Victor Valdes Mariachi band. He is a conductor with Newcastle Youth Orchestras.