Marianna Dos Santos

I've been surrounded by music for most of my life. I began studying at a music conservatory in Brazil when I was eight years old, starting on violin before later focusing on guitar, which has remained my main instrument. Growing up, I was heavily involved in my church's music ministry, singing and playing both acoustic and electric guitar, and those early experiences sparked a lifelong passion for performing and teaching.

As a teenager, I started performing professionally in my hometown. After moving to Australia, I continued my musical journey, performing across the country with jazz ensembles and a Brazilian forró trio, where I sang and played traditional percussion instruments such as pandeiro, tamborim, and triangle. I've also been a member of the Brisbane Latin Choir and continue to perform regularly now that I'm back in Brazil.

Teaching has become one of the most rewarding parts of my career. I've taught private and school-based music lessons in both Australia and Brazil, working with children, teenagers, and adults of all skill levels. In Australia, I taught through Symphony Music and in several Queensland primary schools, while currently I teach guitar, piano, singing, and early childhood music education at a private music school in Brazil.

I'm currently completing my Bachelor's Degree in Music and continue to expand my skills through studies in music production and audio engineering.

My teaching style is supportive, flexible, and student-centred. Every student learns differently, so I tailor lessons to suit their goals, experience, and musical interests. Whether someone wants to learn their favourite songs, prepare for performances, improve technique, develop musicianship, or understand music theory, I create lessons that are engaging, practical, and enjoyable.

I teach acoustic guitar as my primary instrument and also offer beginner violin, piano, and voice lessons. I'm comfortable teaching music theory, sight reading, ear training, rhythm, improvisation, songwriting, and technique. My musical interests include jazz, bossa nova, Brazilian music, popular music, and world music, and I enjoy introducing students to a wide range of styles while helping them build confidence and express themselves through music.

Above all, I believe music should be inspiring. My goal is to create a positive learning environment where students feel supported, challenged, and excited to continue developing their skills.

My teaching style is supportive, engaging, and tailored to each individual student. I believe that everyone learns differently, so I adapt my lessons to suit each student's age, experience, goals, and musical interests.

I aim to create a positive and encouraging environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and growing as musicians. Whether a student wants to play for enjoyment, prepare for performances or exams, or deepen their understanding of music, I provide structured lessons that balance technical development with creativity and musical expression.

Lessons typically include technique, rhythm, repertoire, music theory, ear training, sight reading, and practical musicianship. Depending on the student's goals, we may also explore improvisation, songwriting, harmony, and different musical styles.

As both a performer and educator, I enjoy connecting technical skills with real-world music-making. I encourage students to learn songs they enjoy while gradually expanding their musical knowledge and confidence. My goal is to help students become independent, expressive, and well-rounded musicians who continue to enjoy music long after each lesson.