Wayne Dauer

Wayne Dauer (b. 1969) is an Australian composer, educator, and choral director. Commencing as a music teacher in 1997, Wayne has been an educator of children from ages 5–17; however, the primary sector (ages 5–12) is where Wayne has spent the majority of his career. Majoring in piano at university with secondary studies in voice, classical guitar, and choral conducting, Wayne also studied composition with several leading Australian composers, including Mary Mageau. Wayne has developed many educational programs for the music classroom, including programs for guitar, ukulele, and percussion, in addition to writing hundreds of children’s songs. It has been in more recent years, however, that Wayne has developed a love of composing choral music for younger choirs. It could be said that Wayne’s compositional output is strongly inspired by the students he teaches, and many of his compositions reflect the personalities and experiences of his students. Wayne’s passion has always been, and continues to be, teaching children of all abilities to experience and enjoy music so that it becomes a part of their everyday lives. He strongly believes that “Music makes you a better person” – mentally, physically, socially, and emotionally.