St Margaret’s College alumna and long-serving music educator Jill Kerr has been recognised in the King’s New Year Honours List, acknowledging a lifetime of extraordinary service to music education and church music in New Zealand.
A proud Old Girl of St Margaret’s College, Jill devoted more than 40 years to the College as Director of Music, shaping generations of young musicians and fostering a deep appreciation for choral and instrumental performance. Her influence extended well beyond the classroom, inspiring countless students to pursue music professionally, or to remain lifelong participants in the arts.
In addition to her teaching career, Jill served on the St Margaret’s College Board for 16 years, contributing significantly to the school’s governance and long-term strategic direction. Following her retirement from St Margaret’s in 2010, she continued teaching at Cathedral Grammar School and later at St Michael’s Church School, where she remains an integral part of the music programme today.
Jill’s contribution to church music is equally distinguished. She has held senior leadership roles at Christchurch Cathedral, including Precentor and Conductor of the Cathedral Singers, and made history as the Cathedral’s first female Precentrix. Her work has enriched liturgical music locally, nationally, and internationally, including an invitation to serve as Visiting Precentor at Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford.
Highly respected by colleagues, Jill is recognised not only for her musical excellence but also for her mentorship, integrity and unwavering standards. Her King’s Honour is a fitting acknowledgement of a career defined by service, leadership and an enduring commitment to music and education.
