We would like to begin by introducing our new Head of Department for Music, Ms Sonya Shone.  Sonya has certainly hit the ground running, with a number of music moments which have happened throughout New Zealand Music Month in May.

To begin, we had two bands represent us in this year’s Manukau heats at Rock Quest: Chicken Burrito and Chopstix.  The competition was incredibly tough, and it is a pleasure to announce that Chopstix have secured their place in the Manukau finals which will be held at Auckland Girls Grammar on 5 June at 7pm.

Chicken Burrito band members
Audrey Basilio: Bass Guitar, Christina Chaiachara: Rhythm Guitar, Cedric Ybanez: Lead Guitar, Ariane Cordeiro: Vocals, Max Tay-Morrison: Drums

Chopstix band members
Tristan Gray: Rhythm Guitar, Alejandro Hernandez: Bass Guitar, Kaizer Wong: Lead Guitar and vocals, Jakob Yang: Drums

Shortly after Rock Quest, we enjoyed an inspirational visit from Play It Strange founder, Mike Chunn, and fellow musical alumni Rei and Evie.  It provided some of our music students a platform to share their journeys and talents as well as learning from musical greats.
Click the following link for more detail on the not-for-profit organisation, Play It Strange, which Mike founded.

Capping off a busy few weeks of term 2, our students thoroughly enjoyed the APO Discover Concert in Auckland’s Town Hall on Tuesday 20 May 2025.  Again, it is a wonderful event to share with the students to provide inspiration.

Please see the remaining timetable for music events this year: