Bulman School’s Nathaniel Miller nominated at 2024 ARIAs

A remote music teacher learned to play the guitar by ear. Now, he’s one of four nominees for one of this year’s ARIAs. Read why.

Bulman School music teacher Nathaniel Miller is one of four teachers nominated for an award at the 2024 ARIAs.

Arnhem Land musician Nathaniel Miller taught himself to play guitar by ear; now, he’s a finalist for the 2024 ARIA Music Teacher Award.

The Bulman School teacher started a music program for students about two years ago and has since turned his classroom into a safe place for kids to reconnect with their culture and find pride in their heritage.

Bulman School music teacher Nathaniel Miller is one of four teachers nominated for an award at the 2024 ARIAs.

Mr Miller – son of successful musician Peter Miller – helps his students learn different instruments as well as teaching them to write song and perform in English, Dalabon and Rembarrnga language with the support of community elders.

“It’s about more than just playing instruments,” Mr Miller said.

“It’s about keeping our culture alive, and it’s about building confidence in our young people.”

One student’s parent said they were “so proud” to see their child not only singing in language, but also teaching the words to others.

Bulman School previously won “Community Clip of the Year” at this year’s National Indigenous Music Awards.