KAREN CAREY

Director of Music
Methodist Ladies College
Sydney, Australia
Bachelor of Education 1989
Diploma of Music Education 1969

2011 FINALIST - THE NEWTON-JOHN AWARD

Karen’s outstanding professional career and contribution to music education was recognised when she received the National Award for Excellence from the Australian Society for Music Education and the Australian Government Quality Teacher program. 

In 2011, Karen was the subject of the acclaimed documentary Mrs Carey’s Concert where her work with the Methodist Ladies College was showcased.


Karen’s career in music education has seen her work at a diverse range of schools where she was able to marshal students, staff and parents into performing well received choral pieces. 

The common thread throughout her career is the integration of school-based music into the community. Karen’s development of strategic partnerships has allowed students to follow their musical passions whether it be to compose music, interact with resident composers, access high-level musicians through the profession’s Partners Program or to perform at the Opera House. She is a community engagement expert at work!