MEET THE LEWIS EADY TEAM

We are a caring bunch and we take pride in providing you quality service. Whether you are looking for an instrument, wishing to develop a musical talent or need that morning coffee fix - we are here to help.
Call us or pop in and see us today.

TONY LIU
| CHIRON GROUP NZ CEO |

Tony has a strong background in business development, entrepreneurship and philanthropy, with a breadth of experience across a wide range of international corporate industries, as well as within the private sector. After graduating with a business degree from Scotland, he established Chiron Group New Zealand in 2016 – an organisation providing excellence in private music education and retail experiences.

JOHN EADY
| CHIRON GROUP NZ CONSULTANT |

Sportsman turned musician turned businessman. John studied at the prestigious Royal College of Music in London with a scholarship and lived the life of a touring musician in Europe for several years before returning to New Zealand.
He was involved in several of his own businesses before joining his father at Lewis Eady in 2001 to be the fourth-generation owner of this iconic business.

JAMES TU
| PIANO SALES MANAGER |

James established his career around the majestic “King of Instruments” as he proudly heads the piano department at Lewis Eady Steinway NZ. Born in Taiwan and raised in New Zealand, his passion for music and dedication to the piano have shaped his expertise in the industry.

After completing his Master of Music degree at the University of Auckland, James spent his next few years travelling in Asia and UK, gaining valuable experience in both music and business. The international exposure has broadened his perspective and deepened his understanding of the global piano market.

Now, back in New Zealand, James looks forward to assisting you in your search for the perfect piano with the wealth of experience and industry knowledge he has developed throughout the years.

MICHAEL ASHBY
| STEINWAY PIANO TECHNICIAN |

Michael joined the Lewis Eady family in 2020. His love of pianos sparked at an early age from listening to stories of pianos and pianists from his father, John Ashby, one of the first Steinway technicians in New Zealand.

Michael began his apprenticeship with Steinway technician, David Jenkin in 1991 and established Ashby Pianos in 1999. Michael has worked with Stefan Kühnlein (Germany) and Friedeman Stein (Switzerland) and tuned for the Munich Philharmonic, Gasteig, Herculesaal, and Bayerischer Staatsoper.

Highly in demand, Michael has worked with major venues and arts organisations in New Zealand, including the Wellington Town Hall, New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and many more.

Stefan Ashby
| Apprentice Piano Technician |

A third-generation piano technician, Stefan’s grandfather, John Ashby, was the first Steinway Technician in New Zealand - having emigrated to Wellington from London in the 1950s - and Stefan’s father, Michael Ashby, is the current Steinway Technician in the country.

With a passion for all aspects of the craft, from tuning to restoration, Stefan enjoys playing the piano and can often be heard tinkering away. Aside from his work as an apprentice piano technician, Stefan has studied digital art and is a keen footballer, having played for the Wellington Phoenix Youth Team for three years and also selected for the National Talent Centre.

GEMMA LEE
| MUSIC SCHOOL MANAGER |

Gemma is responsible for the Lewis Eady Music School which currently delivers music lessons to up to 1000 students weekly at up to 30 partner primary, intermediate and secondary schools in Auckland and Wellington, and at our Music Studios in Epsom.

A classically trained pianist, Gemma has been involved in education projects with New Zealand's leading performing arts organisations, including the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra, Chamber Music New Zealand, the Royal New Zealand Ballet, and Opera Factory. Gemma is a firm believer in the power of music education for all-round development.

CHERYL STONNELL
| MUSIC SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR |

Cheryl joined the Lewis Eady team in 2006. She is responsible for ensuring the smooth delivery of lessons to up to 1000 students every week at our Music Studios and our partner schools in Auckland and Wellington.

A passionate classical music fan, Cheryl has been involved in contemporary dance all her life. She taught contemporary creative dance at her studio, Mendl Dance Studios. Cheryl has three adult sons.

GILLIAN MCNICOL
| administration assistant + Chiron facilities Manager |

Gillian joined the Lewis Eady team in 2020. She comes from a family with a strong interest in a wide range of music. Both her adult daughters are past students of Lewis Eady, with the eldest studying trombone at Victoria University.

Gillian has an extensive background in administration, sales and design. When not in the office, you are likely to find her in the garden, up a ladder or behind the sewing machine.

GEORGINA CHASE
| ADMINISTRAtion ASSISTANT |

Georgina has recently joined the Lewis Eady team on a part-time basis. She has diverse administration experience gained whilst living in London and previously trained and worked as an environmental geologist.

When not in the office, Georgina is kept busy by her toddler, her preschooler, and DIY home renovation projects.

PHILIP MELLSOP
| CHIRON GROUP NZ - ACCOUNTS & ADMINistration |

Phil has been with Lewis Eady for more than 12 years, working with the accounts/administration. With his wife Nonita of more than 20 years, they have two children who have been through the Lewis Eady Music School. While not at work Phil enjoys the outdoors such as cycling, swimming & hiking; exploring new places with his family and looking after his Flemish Giant rabbits. Phil is also involved with the local and overseas Christian community.