Kaleah began learning with me in grade 9 after her teacher, Tania Savage, recommended my lessons at Kenmore State High School. Tania consistently sent talented students like Joyce and Kaleah my way, and I’m grateful for her support.
Right from the first lesson, Kaleah proved to be an exceptional student—dedicated, skilled, and with a solid foundation. While she was already taking drum kit lessons elsewhere, our focus was primarily on mallet percussion. I provided her with numerous marimba solo pieces, both with 2 mallets and 4 mallets, and she continued to improve her precision with each passing lesson. Her progress was remarkable, leading her to gain admission to the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University.
During her time at the Conservatorium, Kaleah flourished as a percussionist under the guidance of different teachers, including Tom O’Kelly, Francois Combemorel, Michael Askill, and Vanessa Tomlinson. Although I wasn’t her teacher there, I had the opportunity to witness her growth as a sessional staff member. When she neared the end of her studies, I resumed teaching her once again. The level at which I taught her at home was on a different, higher level. I will never forget the incredible duet performances she delivered alongside Grace Kruger.
Kaleah has become a highly successful and busy freelancer in the drumming and percussion world. She is a member of the band called Alex the Astronaut and frequently tours with them. Additionally, she works at the renowned drum shop called Just Percussion. I’ve had the pleasure of collaborating with her in Camerata Queensland’s Chamber Orchestra as well. Her versatility across various genres makes her highly sought-after in the industry.
In the attached photo, from left to right, you’ll find Joyce, Nozomi, Tania, and Kaleah—our dream percussion team from Kenmore.
Nozomi Omote 
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