An examination of the work of studio music teachers as a contribution to the musical life of Victoria, 1900-1950

This study explored the contribution of private music teachers to the musical life of Victoria in the years 1900-1950. Many well-educated, middle-class women for whom choice or circumstances dictated an independent career became private music teachers. This situation was at variance with the educational and societal expectations for women’s occupations. Private music teachers fostered and enriched the musical life of Victoria, presenting students for examinations, attending Eisteddfods and promoting their work as far as seemed practicable. The contribution of private music teachers to the musical life of Victoria continued and developed in accordance with wider social changes.