Trust Tairāwhiti has approved a $23,500 grant to Music Education Tairāwhiti to support the delivery of its engagement programme connecting Tairāwhiti rangatahi with high-quality music experiences.
In partnership with Chamber Music New Zealand (CMNZ), Music Education Tairāwhiti deliver a programme that provides a variety of musical opportunities throughout the region. The initiative spans dedicated instrument teaching to masterclasses, participant-led creative initiatives and community performances.
At the heart of the initiative is a violin programme at Kaiti School where ten students in years six to eight receive weekly lessons over four terms. Anna Marie Fenn, one of Gisborne’s most prominent local violin teachers, leads these sessions. Anna Marie recently travelled to Auckland to study at Sistema Aotearoa, one of the country’s most innovative and effective music programmes for young musicians. This professional development will enhance the Kaiti school lessons.
The funding will also enable professional coaching for young musicians preparing for the CMNZs NZCT Chamber Music Contest, providing mentorship in technique, musicianship, interpretation, ensemble skills and performance.
Earlier this year, Music Education Tairāwhiti delivered a State Highway 35 residency at Tolaga Bay Area School, where up to 30 senior students developed their skills in drama, strings and brass instruments. These lessons culminated in a performance for their kura and wider community.
School residencies at Kaiti and Te Hapara schools will unfold over three days later in the year, exploring songwriting, theatre, mime and musical performances to cater to a range of creative interests. A free winter school holiday programme will also provide tamariki aged 8 to 12 with a three-day creative arts experience.
Three masterclasses will further enrich the region’s music landscape. One features New Zealand’s oldest chamber music ensemble, From Scratch, showcasing their sculptural invented instruments. Another masterclass will focus on string instruments, while a third will celebrate the art of woodwind instruments.
"Music Education Tairawhiti is immeasurably grateful for this grant which will allow us to continue providing music education for young people and others in our district who might not otherwise have access to high quality, engaging instruction and performance opportunities. All of our programmes are free, and this support from Trust Tairawhiti allows us to continue making that possible," says Music Education Tairāwhiti chair, Chris Tilghman.
Music Education Tairāwhiti, in partnership with CMNZ, remains dedicated to creating opportunities for the community, especially rangatahi, to engage with live music through pathways not otherwise available in schools or existing programmes. These initiatives recognise music’s vital role in personal growth, creative expression and building social connections throughout Tairāwhiti.