Music Department Amps were at 11 for all of Term 2

We have finally reached the end of an epic term here in Te Whare Puoro. Term 2 is one of our busiest terms for music events and we have loved every minute.

Rockquest
We had 11 bands and 2 soloists entering Rockquest this year and even though we didn’t make it through to the finals our musicians represented us incredibly well. We were so proud of all of you! Rockquest even came to film one of our lunchtime concerts and chat with students about making music here at Springs-Waiōrea.

Music Month & Musical Visitors
We had another crazy May with our NZ Music Month celebrations. NZ Music T-Shirt Day to start us off, then lunchtime concerts, our first dedicated NCEA solo performance week, and visitors galore! We had Mazbou Q come in to do some music mentoring with our students, focussing on rap and music production skills. Play It Strange came to visit with Mike Chunn and Rei to encourage our students in their songwriting and to enter the competitions. We also had a visit and performance by classical singer Claire Filer and classical pianist Guy Murgatroyd, finishing off with an incredible rendition of Ride of the Valkyries!

Matariki Waiata Wānanga with NZ Music Commission
Last week we were lucky enough to take 10 students to Q Theatre for a one day waiata wānanga with NZ Music Commission where our students worked on their originals songs with Troy Kingi, Rebel Reid, Laughton Kora and Aro. It was a magical day and our students songs are brilliant – watch out for their Play It Strange entries soon.

Up Next…

24 July – It’s a Musical!
We have our original school musical on the Thursday 24th of July at 6.30pm at school. One night only! Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy this bonkers musical celebration. Entry by koha – no tickets needed.

Week 2 – NCEA Performance Week 2
Our Year 12 and 13 students will be completing their solo performance standards with another week of performances, with an evening concert as well.

Happy holidays everyone – rest up and come back ready to create even more epic music.