MHS Music brochure 2023​​​​​​​

Julia Deans at MHS

The Music Department was lucky again this year to apply for and get a Music Mentor from the NZ Music Commission's Musicians Mentoring Program.

Julia Dean spent 2 days working with the 10 entries in this year's Rockquest which was on Friday 10 June. This is a record number of entries as the most we have had in any other year is 3. There are 4 bands and 6 solo / duos with 2 of those entering Tangata Beats. The vast majority of students are also first time entrants so it is an exciting time for them. The participants must compose their own songs. If they get through to the regional final they submit a video of a second song.

Julia was happy to share her knowledge of music, her process when performing and composing as well as being a professional musician.

The entrants to Rockquest along with other MHS musicians can be heard at the Dinner and Music evening at the Playhouse on 30 June. $5 entry.

Lucy Summerfield performing with Julia Deans ....

​​​​​​​https://www.tvnz.co.nz/shows/seven-sharp/clips/smokefree-rockquest-celebrates-35-years

Lucy Summerfield wins finalist spot at Tangata Beats with original reo waiata 

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Rockquest

Rockquest 2021

Rockquest results

F.E.A.L. 1st place in Regional Bands section 

Lucy Summerfield 1st place in Tangata Beats section and 2nd place in Solo/duo category

https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/music/300332783/nelson-regions-smokefree-rockquest-winners-excited-for-the-next-round​​​​​​​

The Big Sing 2022

Above: Members of Suono with plaque for Excellence award for the NZ Composition category of the Regional Big Sing 2022

The Big Sing (TBS, the New Zealand Choral Federation's festival for secondary school choirs, has been held annually for over 30 years. With some 10,000 singers from around 160 schools and 260 choirs entering the regional festivals each year, it is one of New Zealand's largest choral and school events.

The main aims of The Big Sing are to:

• encourage enjoyment in singing and foster excellence in performance
• enable school choirs to participate in and be exposed to high-quality choral music in a supportive and professional setting
• increase understanding and appreciation of Maori vocal music and performance styles
• provide opportunities for students to lead choirs and develop conducting skills
• provide professional development for choir directors via adjudication and feedback, as well as mentoring and networking with other choral leaders
• provide opportunities for New Zealand composers to have their works performed in public to a high standard
• encourage budding composers through the SOUNZ-NZCF competitions.

You can follow The Big Sing on Facebook or on www.nzcf.org.nz

The Big Sing 2021 result:

Suono Bellissimo - Commended award and Spirit of the Festival - Youth Ambassadors Award