Meet the Musicians Behind I & K Music

I & K Music is built on more than three decades of real-world musical experience. Directors Neil and Justine Favell aren’t just instrument suppliers—they’re professional musicians and educators who’ve spent their careers performing on stages across Australia and internationally, teaching the next generation of talent, and deeply understanding what makes an instrument truly worth investing in.

Their mission? To help musicians of all levels access reliable, high-quality brass and woodwind instruments at prices that make sense—backed by the kind of genuine expertise that only comes from a lifetime devoted to music.

Neil Favell

French Horn Specialist & Brass Educator

Neil’s musical journey has taken him from the rehearsal rooms of the Queensland Conservatorium of Music to concert halls throughout Australia, New Zealand, and beyond.

After completing both a Diploma of Music and Graduate Diploma in Instrumental Performance at the Conservatorium, he ventured to Germany to refine his craft under the mentorship of Professor Xiao-Ming Han.

His professional performance career is impressive and diverse. As Principal Horn with the Dunedin Symphony Orchestra and through countless performances with major orchestras across Australia and New Zealand, Neil has experienced firsthand what professional musicians need from their instruments—and what makes the difference between good and exceptional.

But Neil’s greatest passion lies in education. For more than twenty years, he’s been shaping young brass players, currently leading the brass program at Hillbrook Anglican School in Brisbane while also serving as Lecturer in Brass at the University of Otago in New Zealand. His teaching philosophy centers on strong fundamentals, clear communication, and building genuine confidence in emerging musicians.

Justine Favell

Pianist, Accompanist & Choral Director

With a Bachelor of Music and Graduate Diploma in Piano Performance from the Queensland Conservatorium of Music, Justine has built a career that spans solo performance, collaborative artistry, conducting, and education.

As Principal Accompanist for the prestigious ensembles Voices of Birralee and Brisbane Chorale, Justine has performed under world-class conductors and toured internationally, bringing her artistry to audiences far beyond Australia. Her work has taken her from the vocal department at the Queensland Conservatorium—where she served as staff accompanist—to freelance performances with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra.

Today, Justine continues to inspire through her multifaceted roles at Padua College, where she works as vocal tutor, choral director, and piano teacher. Her ability to connect with singers of all ages, combined with her exceptional musicianship and professionalism, has made her a respected figure in Brisbane’s vibrant music education community.

Why This Expertise Matters

When you purchase an instrument from I & K Music, you’re not just buying from a warehouse—you’re benefiting from Neil and Justine’s combined sixty-plus years of performing, teaching, and genuinely understanding what musicians need. They’ve been in the rehearsal room at 7 AM preparing students for competitions. They’ve felt the pressure of professional performances where equipment must be flawless. They’ve guided countless families through the sometimes-overwhelming process of choosing that first instrument.

This depth of experience shapes every decision they make: which instruments to stock, how to evaluate quality at different price points, what accessories actually matter, and how to support musicians long after the initial purchase.

Our Promise to You

I & K Music represents a new chapter in Neil and Justine’s lifelong dedication to musical excellence. They’ve taken everything they’ve learned from decades on stage and in the classroom and channeled it into a straightforward mission: providing students, families, schools, and passionate performers with instruments they can genuinely trust.

No gimmicks. No hard sells. Just quality instruments, honest guidance, and real musical expertise from people who’ve lived and breathed this craft for over thirty years.

Whether you’re a parent navigating your child’s first band instrument, a teacher sourcing equipment for your program, or an enthusiast seeking an upgrade, Neil and Justine understand your needs because they’ve been exactly where you are. They look forward to supporting your musical journey with the same care, dedication, and passion that have defined their remarkable careers.

Want to learn more?

Reach out to Neil and Justine directly. They’re always happy to answer questions, offer guidance, or simply talk music with fellow enthusiasts.