Welcome to Libby Claire Jazz

Music has been part of my life for as long as I can remember 💛

I grew up in a home where music was simply part of everyday life. Singing together as a family, instruments always around the house, and learning violin alongside my siblings from the age of three through the Suzuki Method. At the time, I didn't realise how much those moments were shaping me.

Looking back now, I can see that music became a place of comfort, confidence, creativity, self-expression, and connection throughout every stage of my life.

I continued with singing and violin lessons throughout childhood, training in vocal technique under Gina Sanders from the age of twelve through to eighteen. While my classical training gave me a strong technical foundation, it wasn't until I moved to Bristol in the United Kingdom that I truly discovered how expressive and personal music could be.

Immersing myself in Bristol's vibrant jazz scene changed everything. Jazz taught me to listen deeply, collaborate, improvise, and find my own musical voice. It transformed music from something I practised into something I lived.

Since returning home to Aotearoa, I completed my Jazz degree at the University of Auckland and now work as a full-time musician, performer, and educator. Alongside performing at weddings, private events, cocktail bars, and community celebrations, I have also dedicated much of my work to music education and children's development.

At the heart of everything I do is a simple belief: Music shapes our lives in powerful ways.

Whether we are celebrating a milestone, supporting a child's development, or learning something new as adults, music has the ability to connect us, inspire us, and stay with us long after the moment has passed.

Live Jazz for Special Celebrations

One of the reasons I love performing is because music becomes part of people's memories.

Think about your favourite celebrations. Chances are there was music playing during some of the most meaningful moments. Music has a unique way of setting the atmosphere, bringing people together, and creating a feeling that guests remember long after the event has ended.

I am passionate about live jazz because it can:

• Create a warm, elegant atmosphere

• Bring people together naturally

• Encourage connection and conversation

• Make special moments feel even more memorable

• Become part of the story people carry with them

Whether it's a wedding, engagement, birthday, corporate event, or community gathering, my goal is always the same: To create beautiful musical moments that enhance your celebration and leave a lasting impression.

Music Sensory for Growing Minds

My passion for Music Sensory classes comes from both my personal experience and my research into children's brain development.

As a child, music shaped so much of who I became. As an educator, I now see those same benefits unfolding in young children every week.

Music supports far more than musical ability. It helps children:

• Develop communication skills

• Build emotional awareness and regulation

• Strengthen memory and concentration

• Improve coordination and movement

• Explore creativity and imagination

• Connect with caregivers and peers

• Build confidence through exploration

I truly believe music is not simply an "extra" activity. It becomes part of the foundation children build from as they learn about themselves and the world around them.

The beautiful thing is that meaningful musical experiences don't have to be complicated. A familiar song, a simple rhythm, movement, play, and shared musical moments can all have a lasting impact.

My classes are designed to provide a nurturing environment where children can learn through music in a way that feels joyful, natural, and developmentally supportive.

Music & Singing Lessons for Adults

I am passionate about teaching adults because I believe it is never too late to experience the joy of making music.

Many people come to lessons believing they aren't naturally musical, that they missed their opportunity, or that learning music is something reserved for children. I love helping people discover that none of those things are true.

Music offers adults an opportunity to:

• Build confidence

• Develop new skills

• Express themselves creatively

• Challenge themselves in a supportive environment

• Reconnect with curiosity and play

• Experience the joy of lifelong learning

My approach combines strong musical foundations with practical, real-world experiences. Rather than focusing solely on theory, I encourage students to learn through listening, creating, experimenting, and making music that feels meaningful to them.

There is something incredibly rewarding about watching a student discover confidence in their voice or achieve something they once thought was impossible.

Why I Do What I Do

Whether I'm performing at a special event, leading a Music Sensory class, or teaching a singing lesson, my purpose remains the same: To help people experience the power of music.

Because music isn't just something we listen to, it's something that helps us connect, celebrate, learn, express ourselves, and create memories that stay with us for a lifetime.

Thank you for being here. I'm so glad you've found Libby Claire Jazz, and I look forward to sharing music with you.

Libby Claire 💛