Cinnamon Laddin
Cinnamon is a versatile multi-instrumentalist and educator studying Jazz at the University of Melbourne. Skilled in violin, guitar, and ukulele, she blends classical, folk, and jazz styles. With extensive performance experience, she focuses on creativity and joyful expression in her teaching.
Cinnamon is a versatile multi-instrumentalist and performer currently studying at the University of Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, completing a Bachelor of Jazz Performance and Improvisation. With a background spanning classical, jazz, folk, and contemporary music, she teaches all guitar, ukulele and violin with a focus on creativity, technique, and joyful self-expression.
Background
Cinnamon began learning violin at age 7 at the Northern Rivers Conservatorium, where she spent many years performing in the Youth Orchestra and Chamber Strings Ensemble. Growing up in the Byron Bay region, her musical curiosity led her to explore new sounds; she picked up the ukulele at 11, which naturally opened the door to guitar and later jazz improvisation.
Her early dedication and passion for performing led to appearances with the Northern Rivers Youth Jazz Orchestra and opportunities to play alongside renowned visiting artists such as James Morrison and Lior. Her love for both performing and collaborating across genres ultimately brought her to Melbourne to further her studies in jazz and improvisation.
Experience
Cinnamon has performed extensively across the Northern Rivers and beyond. As a songwriter and guitarist in her Byron Bay band Stereo, she wrote and performed original music at major festivals including Bluesfest Byron Bay and Byron Music Festival, as well as at most local venues throughout the region.
She was also a founding member of Dysania, a progressive jazz ensemble that allowed her to deepen her improvisational skills and explore more experimental sound worlds.
Since relocating to Melbourne, Cinnamon continues to develop her artistry through her band Moki, performing regularly and collaborating with emerging and established musicians.
In addition to her diverse performance experience, Cinnamon has trained through AMEB, Rockschool, and Trinity grading systems, giving her a broad foundation across classical and contemporary technique, theory, and musicianship.
Teaching Approach
Cinnamon’s teaching style is enthusiastic, sensitive, and fun, shaped by her genuine love for all aspects of music. She fosters a warm, supportive learning environment where students feel understood and encouraged, helping them build confidence while developing solid technical foundations.
Her lessons combine clear technique with creativity and improvisation, allowing students to explore their own musical voice—whether they are preparing for exams, writing songs, learning their first instrument, or extending their skills for performance. Cinnamon tailors her approach to each student’s goals and learning style, ensuring that everyone progresses at their own pace.
Above all, she hopes to inspire a lifelong love of music, helping students find joy, curiosity, and expression in their playing.
Performance & Inspiration
From intimate local venues to large festival stages and jazz ensembles, Cinnamon’s broad musical journey has shaped her belief that music is a powerful connector of people and communities. She brings this passion into every lesson and performance, encouraging her students to explore not only how to play music—but why it matters and what they can express through it.
