We are very sad to announce that Sheila Warby passed away last weekend.

Sheila has been a central figure in the Suzuki Community in NSW and all around the world for decades.

Sheila was first and foremost an amazing teacher, nurturing many of her students through to their final level graduation and beyond, but she was also a caring trainer supervising trainee teachers through their courses, and she was in demand worldwide to tutor at events for students’ programs and teachers’ professional development courses.

Through her belief in our wonderful Suzuki method, Sheila worked tirelessly behind the scenes volunteering for many years as a member of the Suzuki Board and serving her time as our President on the Board.

She was instrumental in setting up the PPSA (Pan Pacific Suzuki Association) which will finally give our region a united foundation to work with. Sheila was president of the PPSA until stepping down earlier this year, passing the baton on to new teachers.

Most Suzuki parents or teachers will have listened to Sheila in one of her many parent talks. Sheila was also the editor of our Tempo magazine for many years and continued to write her inspiring articles whenever asked for one. Her book, “With love in my heart and a twinkle in my ear” will remain a valuable resource for any parent or teacher embarking on musical education. Sheila was passionate about encouraging new parents to embrace the Suzuki method outlining the wonderful gift of music to your children and imparting valuable advice on how to stay motivated and was often our compere at the annual graduation concert at the Opera House.

Sheila has touched so many lives and will be sorely missed by many, none more so than her immediate family to whom we send our heartfelt condolences. Family came first for Sheila but their loss is our loss and she will be missed by us all.

We have just been notified from the family of the planned service for Sheila:

Monday, 14 August at 1pm

Sheila’s family and friends are warmly invited to attend a Celebration of her Life to be held in the Magnolia Chapel, Macquarie Park Crematorium
Plassey Road, North Ryde

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to The Lung Foundation Australia in Sheila’s honour.

We will open a condolence book for anyone who cannot attend the service, but would like to send a message. Please email your message to the Sydney Suzuki office by midday Friday 11 August – admin@suzukimusic.com.au

The Suzuki Association Board and Administration Office