Joyful Music & Violin Lessons in Queenstown
Hi, I’m Erica, a qualified teacher and experienced violinist passionate about helping children thrive through music. Whether I’m leading a group of curious preschoolers or supporting a young violinist one-on-one, my goal is to create a space where your child feels confident, engaged, and excited to learn. Music is more than notes and technique, it’s a way to grow, express, and find joy.
A different kind of music lesson
I believe there is a strong connection between music and wellbeing. I strive to create a space where students not only develop their technical skill, but also experience the therapeutic benefits of music. Here’s how I teach:
Musicality-centred
I want my students to really feel and understand the music they play. I place great value on learning by ear and by feeling, alongside reading sheet music.
For wellbeing, joy & expression
My lessons are a safe space for kids to grow in confidence, creativity, and emotional wellbeing— I always make sure they feel seen, heard, and encouraged.
Theory through doing
Musical concepts are woven into our time together through games, playing, and real-world examples. When music feels fun and connected to real life, the learning lasts.
Magical Music for preschoolers at Te Atamira
For the past three years, Magical Music With Erica (a joyful group music classes for ages 2–5) has been a favourite for local families. These playful sessions introduce little ones to rhythm, pitch, and movement, while also building early literacy, coordination, and social skills.
As a trained classroom teacher and music educator, I create a warm, fun space where children (and caregivers!) feel uplifted, connected, and free to explore through music.
Best for ages 2–5
When: Mondays & Wednesdays, 10am (school term time)
Location: Te Atamira, Queenstown
Personalised violin lessons for children (one on one)
Whether your child is picking up the violin for the first time or building on what they already know, I offer supportive, one-on-one lessons designed to meet them where they’re at. We move at a pace that feels right for them, and I focus on nurturing both skill and a love for music.
Suitable for children from ages 7.
Based in Queenstown.
Priced per term.
"I love having Erica as a teacher she’s amazing at teaching and really supports my passion for music. Hands down best violin teacher i’ve ever had."
-Happy Student
"My child loves her lessons with Erica. She shares her enthusiasm and expertise in a fun way. My daughter has made amazing progress and looks forward to her weekly sessions. Highly recommend learning music with Erica."
- Melissa
"My son has been learning piano with Erica for over two years now, and we couldn't be happier. He absolutely loves his lessons and always looks forward to them. Erica is not only a fantastic teacher, but also incredibly encouraging and in tune with each child’s individual needs and learning style. She really understands how to bring out the best in her students, making lessons both fun and productive. It’s clear she genuinely cares about their progress and confidence, and that makes all the difference. We feel so lucky to have found her!"
- Haley
"Erica is a walking angel. She is incredibly warm, welcoming, knowledgeable and fun. What a wonderful introduction my wee boy had to music with her. Thanks to Erica's encouraging approach he has found a love from drums and has weekly lessons he loves. Thank you Erica."
-Happy Parent
"I highly recommend Erica's teaching! Her students are given a solid grounding in technique and notation, love coming to their lessons, and receive a dedicated and caring welcome every single week."
- Emma
"We’ve been so lucky to have Jerry learn from such a passionate and talented teacher. Each lesson is filled with joy, creativity, and care. We’ve seen incredible progress, and more importantly, Jerry truly loves playing piano now!"
-Happy Parent
"Erica is an excellent, professional teacher who is incredibly dedicated to helping her students progress. My daughter, Giovana, is in her third year of violin lessons, and her progress is incredible with each new lesson. We are very satisfied; Giovana couldn't have a better teacher."
- Elaine
"Erica Hastie is a resident artist at Te Atamira. Since 2022, she has led Magical Music, a popular weekly class for tamariki aged 2 to 5, and has also designed and delivered inclusive music workshops for tamariki aged 5 to 12 as part of our holiday programme. Her thoughtful approach to learning and genuine connection with tamariki have been deeply appreciated, earning her many returning fans!"
- Michelle (Te Atamira)
"Erica is an incredible music teacher. Our daughter has been learning for 2 years and loves her violin lessons. She absolutely loves playing her instrument for others. We are so happy with how quickly she picks things up, amazed at her confidence and it's all thanks to Erica making lessons fun. I'd not hesitate to refer anyone wanting to learn to this amazing and talented woman."
- Kristal
"Our daughter has been with Erica for 2 years now. Erica is so patient and kind, she keeps her on track while still listening and taking interest in her stories (on or off topic) throughout the lesson. Erica adapts her lessons to keep engagement, including recreating our daughter’s favourite song so she can play it at her ability. She explains everything very clearly and ensures her students have a good understanding before moving forward. Our daughter loves going to music, and she always wants to practice to show Ms Erica that she can master that piece of music and get to the next one."
- Happy Parent
Lesson Enquiry Form
If you're interested in violin lessons for your child, I’d love to hear from you. Please fill out the form below and I’ll be in touch. Spaces are limited and I often have a waitlist, but I’ll do my best to find a spot for your young musician. If you are unsure on what is best for your child simply contact me and I'll do my best to help out.
Erica Hastie - Music Teacher & Musician
“Inspiring a life-long love of music in a warm and nurturing environment."
