Emma Pritchard

Former Grafton resident Melissa Buchholz is looking forward to embracing new opportunities overseas after being offered a position on the Trinity College of London’s music examinations panel.

Born and raised in the Clarence Valley, Ms Buchholz commenced her career at St Cecilia’s, now known as the Clarence Valley Conservatorium, and has always loved and admired music.

Describing herself as very excited as she prepares to assume her new role which will enable her to travel to New Zealand and South East Asia later this year, as well as around Australia, Ms Buchholz is presently working as a woodwind teacher and accompanist at the Toowoomba Grammar School, and loves seeing her students develop their music skills and grow in confidence as they learn and achieve new accomplishments.

And while she admits the process of applying and training for her new role has been quite gruelling during the Covid-19 pandemic which forced her to complete a majority of her lead-up work online, she is eagerly anticipating the beginning of the exam period in May.  

“It’s seasonal work, so I will be away for two to three weeks at a time when exams begin,” she explained.

“Apart from the chance to travel, which I love, the role will also allow me to give something back to young and emerging musicians and help to make the whole exam process really pleasurable for them.

“Often when young people think of sitting for an exam, it conjures up a lot of stress, and I want to take away those fears and anxiety and make it an enjoyable experience for them.

“I think it’s going to be very rewarding.”

A qualified and gifted teacher with more than 30 years’ experience as well as being an accomplished pianist and violinist, Ms Buchholz is a passionate advocate for high standards and enjoyment amongst her pupils, and is committed to helping them reach their full potential.