For Candice Moleshe, music education is about far more than notes on a page.
It is about inspiring curiosity, confidence, and independent thinking. As head of music at Auckland Park Preparatory School (APPS), Moleshe brings passion, creativity, and high energy into every rehearsal, concert, or classroom lesson.

Behind the performances and polished productions, however, is a teacher deeply committed to helping learners discover their own potential. “One of the biggest challenges has been balancing innovation with practicality. I am constantly thinking of new ideas, programmes, and ways to improve the music experience for learners.”

Read more: Passion and practice shape budding musician

Leading a busy music department requires her to wear many hats – educator, mentor, organiser, performer, and administrator – often all in one day. Yet it is the moments of growth in her learners that continue to drive her. “The most rewarding moments are when something suddenly clicks for a learner. You can actually see confidence and excitement develop in real time.”

Moleshe believes true education goes beyond memorisation. Instead, she encourages learners to think independently and develop the confidence to teach themselves. One student in particular left a lasting impression on her after independently completing an entire violin workbook during a school holiday. “He showed initiative, discipline, and genuine understanding. It reaffirmed for me how powerful effective teaching can be.”

Outside the classroom, Moleshe continues to grow as a musician herself, through performing violin, arranging music, and pursuing creative projects. She credits her faith and family for keeping her grounded.

Also read: Teacher aims to inspire his pupils through music

Despite the pressures of teaching, she remains hopeful about the future of education because of the passion she sees in fellow educators. “I hope my students remember me as someone who genuinely loved music and pushed them to achieve more than they thought possible.”

Through her work at APPS, that passion is clearly striking a chord.

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