ELITE STUDIOS TUTORS
Meet the Heartbeat of Elite Studios: Our Diverse Team of Tutors
At Elite Studios, we pride ourselves not only on our commitment to excellence but also on the rich tapestry of experiences and backgrounds that our team of tutors brings to the table. Each member of our Elite crew is not just an instructor but a mentor, a guide, and a source of inspiration for our students. Together, we form a vibrant community united by our passion for music and our dedication to nurturing talent.
NYREE HUYSER
Elite Studios Owner
Senior Vocal Coach
Scottish-born dynamic vocalist, Nyree Huyser, celebrates over 20 years of international success in the entertainment industry and most recently reached Rita Ora’s top 3 contestants on season 12 of ‘The Voice Australia’.
No stranger to the big stage, Nyree has performed at both the Christchurch Stadium and Auckland Spark Arena as well as headlining festivals such as Jim Beam Homegrown, SYNTHONY Festival and Rhythm and Alps with the orchestral phenomenon ’SYNTHONY’. The show has also taken her to bucket-list venues such as the O2 Arena in London and the opening of brand new Saudi Arabian oasis ‘Sindalah’, where she opened for none other than soulful sensation Alicia Keys.
In 2023 Nyree released her second studio album, ‘Fixing Heads and Chasing Tails’, after a 10-year hiatus to have 3 beautiful children following her nu-disco collab album ‘Funky Tambourine’ with Scottish funk band ‘The Autocharm’. This year Nyree is soon to release a third body of work entitled ‘GROWN’.
Nyree frequently performs her own headline shows internationally including a special tribute to Céline Dion - ‘The Power of Céline’ - so far having performed in Greece, Belgium, France, the UK, the Philippines, Mauritius and Fiji with more dates planned for the next few years.
JACOB RILEY RICHARDS
Vocal Coach
Jacob Riley Richards (stage name Kyon) has been in the New Zealand music industry for 10 years, releasing his first single in 2014 and hitting top 40 of the worldwide iTunes Charts! Following radio airplay and NZ On Air funding he continues to release music and perform around the country, including the magical Coca Cola's Christmas in the Park.
Jacob specialises in vocal technique, artist development and confidence-building.
SOPHIA SAVAGE
Vocal Coach
Sophia’s love for the performing arts began at an early age, with a childhood immersed in music, vocal training, and stage performance. She received formal vocal coaching throughout her youth and was an active member of the Taranaki Youth Choir, where she developed strong foundations in harmony, technique, and ensemble performance.
Her passion for musical theatre led to training in dance, acting, and voice, which culminated in notable stage roles including a Dynamite in Hairspray and Miss Smythe/Ensemble in Mary Poppins with the New Plymouth Operatic Society.
In 2018, Sophia moved to Christchurch to pursue a Bachelor of Performing Arts, majoring in Musical Theatre. During her time in training, she performed in productions such as 42nd Street, Holiday Inn, and It’s Only Life, and graduated in 2020 with a deepened skill set and love for performing.
Most recently, Sophia stepped into the spotlight as Grizabella in Cats with JKPA
In addition to her work on stage, Sophia is passionate about teaching and mentoring others in the performing arts space. She finds great joy in helping people discover their voice, build confidence, and embrace their full potential through creative expression.
BECKY MAYES
Vocal Coach
Becky started singing at an early age, performing at music clubs and events, and competing in singing competitions via NPACS. She was the lead vocalist in her high school rock band who competed in the televised Smokefree Rockquest, making it into the finals!
Upon leaving school Becky completed a 2-year Diploma in Performing Arts (Voice), which involved singing in Italian, French & German. She also performed in the Napier Operatic Society’s West Side Story.
Over the years she has performed live as a soloist as well as in duos, trios & bands throughout New Zealand and currently performs as a soloist based in Christchurch.
Becky is so excited to now be a part of Elite Studios where she has the privilege of helping others in their journey of a love of singing.
EMMA MOORE
Junior Vocal Coach
Emma Moore is an emerging solo artist, songwriter, and vocalist with over a decade of training and stage experience. Her journey began as a four-year medalist with the Christchurch Schools’ Special Choir before starring as Jane Banks in the Court Theatre’s production of Mary Poppins. She was later chosen as one of two Christchurch representatives for the JTNZ Pilot Programme in Auckland, working closely with Broadway directors and musical producers. Since then, she has taken on a variety of roles in youth and professional productions across Christchurch.
Having trained at Elite Studios, Emma is excited to return as a tutor and share her passion with new students. Alongside her performing career, she is an avid songwriter with extensive experience creating original music and is currently in the works of releasing her own music.
Emma also brings skills in piano to support her teaching. Her lessons focus on building confidence, stage presence, and vocal technique across RnB, Musical Theatre, Jazz, Classical, and Pop, as well as songwriting and artist development.
DAMIEN ROWLANDS
Guitar Tutor
Damien has been performing and teaching guitar for over 20 years, building a reputation as a versatile musician and engaging live performer. He began playing at a young age, developing a love for classic rock, acoustic, and singer-songwriter styles that continues to inspire his music today.
Over the years, Damien has performed across New Zealand as both a solo artist and as part of several working bands, gaining extensive live experience across pubs, clubs, and events. His time on stage and in the studio has given him a deep understanding of practical musicianship — something he now loves passing on to his students.
Lessons with Damien focus on learning real songs, developing solid rhythm and technique, and building confidence as a player. Whether you’re picking up a guitar for the first time or wanting to refine your skills, Damien creates a relaxed, supportive environment that makes learning fun and rewarding.
