Rivaan Timm Mager

As a dedicated music teacher with over a decade of experience in Dubai, I have had the privilege of not only nurturing students' musical talents but also pioneering initiatives such as establishing the first special needs choir in the UAE. My strong commitment to helping students achieve their goals, coupled with a genuine passion for music and community engagement, drives me to create inclusive and enriching learning environments. I thrive on collaboration, working seamlessly with students, colleagues, and parents alike to foster holistic development. Furthermore, my enthusiasm extends beyond the classroom, as I am keen to contribute to after-school activities, ensuring students have ample opportunities to explore their musical interests outside of regular lessons. I am excited about the prospect of continuing to inspire and empower students through music education.

Rivaan Mager is from the culturally rich and diverse South Africa and his family has embraced this culture through music. Rivaan started his journey into the world of music by taking piano lessons at the tender age of 8. After discovering his deep appreciation and admiration for the art of music he then followed his piano training with Euphonium. He studied music at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU), where he majored in Brass Instruments and Conducting. In 2007 and 2008, while at NMMU, Rivaan played for the Eastern Cape Youth Orchestra and in 2009 he was chosen to play for the South African National Wind Band, playing both the Euphonium and Trombone for the concert series. He also has a great passion for conducting choirs and chamber music. Rivaan took Master Conducting classes with the Maestro Lazlo Marosi and Dr. Peter Louis Van Dijk. As someone who enjoys travelling, has infinity for teaching and an overall anthropological inclination, Rivaan took up a position in Thailand in 2010 to teach Music and English. Ever the natural entrepreneur he opened his own piano school for beginners in a remote town called Ranong. He also took great pride in conducting the school’s military brass band. In late 2010 Rivaan accepted a music position in Dubai. Here he has integrated himself into the growing classical music scene by playing in various orchestras; helping out with the Dubai Youth Orchestra. Due to his exuberant personality and vibrant conducting he was awarded a summer school conducting bursary to the prestigious Julliard School of Music in New York. Rivaan enjoys his current role in teaching and is motivated by seeing youngsters grow musically and creating value within themselves through this art form. He also has a deep passion to teach children with various abilities and make music accessible to them. Rivaan is also the founder and director of ‘Dubai EnSENble’ the UAE’s first choir for ‘THE DETERMINED ONES’

Music Education and performance