Welcome to First Notes Music
First Notes started right before Covid after a colleague of mine at a television network heard of my lessons at Reddam and said
"You need to start teaching outside the school. Your classes sound incredible and my daughters would love them!"
Our
Story
Where did First Notes Music start..
Music has been part of my life since I was 15, writing songs, playing piano, and performing. I had some early success as a singer-songwriter, including a nomination at the Independent Music Awards and time in the UK dance charts. But it was the moment I started teaching that everything clicked.
First Notes Music was born from a simple conversation. A colleague of mine at a television network had heard about the music classes I was running at Reddam House and pulled me aside one day: "You need to start teaching outside the school. Your classes sound incredible and my daughters would love them."
That was all the push I needed.
We launched First Notes Music just before Covid, not the easiest timing, but the response from families and early learning centres told us I had something special.
Nearly a decade later, we're proud to be running music, dance and drama programs across Sydney, working with some incredible schools, centres, and most importantly, some incredible kids.
At the heart of it all is the same belief that started everything: that music is a natural human skill, and that every child deserves the chance to discover it.
Meet the Team
Nick Summerfield
Hi, I'm Nick!
I am the the founder of First Notes Music. I'm a Kodály trained Early Childhood Music Specialist, and have been teaching at the Early Learning School at Reddam House in Sydney for my seventh year now.
I love sharing the joy of music and movement with children. Their energy, authenticity and love makes this one of the best jobs to have.
I began as a singer, song writer and pianist at the age of 15, with having some success in the UK dance charts and nomination in the Independent Music Awards.
Now I love channeling my creativity into lessons and songs to inspire children's imagination while help them build a love and foundation for music.
Brooke Morchio - Dance and Drama
Hi, I’m Brooke!
I have always been drawn to anything and everything that lets me be creative, which ultimately led me to performing!
I started with hosting princess parties at age 15 and from there I found my passion in acting, singing, dancing - and bringing joy to children! After high school I found how much I love teaching as I was invited back to direct the school productions. Following my passion took me to Actors Centre Australia where I graduated with a Bachelor of Performing Arts in Stage and Screen Acting. Since then I’ve been navigating my creative career whilst also being a mother to my young daughter. Encouraging children to access their imagination and find love in the creative arts has truly become my life’s mission!
Maria Lado - Music
Hi, I’m Maria!
I’m a mother of two, early learning music teacher and sound therapist.
Having grown up in the Filipino community and performing since the age of 10, music has always been my main outlet for creativity and connection.
After working in the corporate world and realising that I had a higher purpose, an opportunity presented itself to train as a teacher in early learning music.
Eight years later, it continues to bring me so much joy, seeing how children’s enquiring minds, growth and confidence evolve through music.
I’m honoured to be a part of Nick’s team at First Notes Music.