Whaowhia te mātauranga – fill the basket of knowledge
Designed to be taken independently or in succession, our courses:
- are provided by distance learning
- are tailored to your needs and are relevant to your chosen instrument
- can be taken by members and non-members IRMTNZ.
Foundation Course
Our newly redesigned Foundation Course, launched in July 2025, is nearing completion – and we’re delighted to share that it’s been a great success!
“I have been challenged in so many ways… I now teach with increased confidence and joy… students are loving the ideas I have applied to my lessons.”
This Course is designed as an introduction to the principles of studio pedagogy for musicians who have attained Grade 8 or equivalent practical skills and Grade 5 theory skills, and who wish to pursue a career in music studio teaching. All Course Participants (CPs) are assigned a mentor to support them through the Course. The Foundation Course consists of nine online sessions and one in-person Contact Workshop, with 10 tasks to complete. All tasks must be completed to the satisfaction of the Course Coordinator within six months of registration. Participants must attend the Contact Workshop to complete the Course.
Next course: beginning in February 2026
Registration deadline: Friday 23 January
See the IRMTNZ Foundation Course Summary for details and apply using the IRMTNZ Foundation Course Registration Form. (Please note that this form is currently being reviewed and will be available again in a few weeks time)
All enquiries should be directed to the Course Coordinator, Louise Logan, at
Scholarships
Our Auckland, Waikato and Christchurch Branches offer scholarships to teachers in their respective areas for enrolment in our Foundation Course:
- Auckland – Thelma Gordon Scholarship
- Waikato – Betty Dunbar Scholarship
- Christchurch – Merle Henry Scholarship
Please contact the relevant branch secretary for details, terms and conditions.
IRMTNZ Library
From books on pedagogy by internationally acclaimed music educators to filmed recitals by some of our most beloved musicians, the IRMTNZ library is well worth browsing. Items are available to members and teacher training course participants for their Continuous Professional Development and enjoyment.
There is no charge for course participants to borrow library items while they are working on course assignments.
To borrow an item please contact Louise Logan at
Please send Louise your name, address, phone number and email. Rental is for one month and the item must be returned in a postage pre-paid bubble envelope at the borrower’s expense.
We encourage the use of packaging that has a low impact on the environment such as your own recycled packaging or NZPOs 80% recycled plastic postage bags.
Our Sponsors
We gratefully acknowledge Piano Traders, NZMEB and Trinity College London for contributing items to our Foundation Course kete.
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