Mapping the Musical Landscape in Tairāwhiti

An innovative and ground breaking community research project is set to unearth what local musicians and audiences want from the music scene in Tairāwhiti.

The Tairāwhiti Music Survey - Te Rangahou Puoro o te Tairāwhiti - project is the brain child of local musician and live music venue co-owner, Darryl Monteith. During his time as Chair of Creative Tairawhiti from 2006-2010, Darryl said he “often thought about the way in which sports were funded and wondered why the same funding wasn’t applied to the arts.” With the thought of possible opportunities in the music industry ruminating over the years, it was further injected with life in 2019 after organising an “overwhelmingly positive” hui to discuss a music strategy for Tairāwhiti. With the onset of the challenging Covid years, the idea was put on the back burner until Darryl found he “had the time, energy and head space to pick the idea up again.”

Attending a Te Urungi funding application weekend last year and successfully applying for, and securing, seed funding through Manatū Taonga (Ministry for Culture and Heritage) means the community research project is well supported to map the musical landscape in Tairāwhiti. Te Urungi is the steering paddle of a waka hourua and the funding is intended to guide innovative ideas and projects in the arts sector. Darryl explains, “the whole concept of the funding workshop actually represents exactly what we’re doing here. We have this beautiful music waka, which contributes hugely to our wellbeing in Tairāwhiti. We just don’t have a means of steering it or know where we, collectively, would like to go yet” The grassroots research project is a first, with no template for it. “We’re not aware of anywhere else in New Zealand successfully mapping their music sector before, so it’s a great opportunity to pilot such a project here.”

There are three phases to the research project. Phase One is the launch of the online “What Does Music Mean To You ?” survey and gathering data from local musicians and audience members. Phase Two is analysis of that data and Phase Three is taking steps forward in relation to what the data reveals.

“The aim is to have as many people as possible complete the online survey to ensure a far reaching group of many diverse voices have their say on the future of music in Tairāwhiti.” While individuals and music-related businesses will complete the survey online, bands and music organisations will have the opportunity to complete the survey via facilitated meetings.

Once the data is gathered, the results will be mapped out to identify the challenges, hopes, aspirations and dreams of those involved within the music sector. “We have very passionate and talented musicians who are already fairly well connected. This project provides us with an in depth understanding of the musical landscape for all budding and experienced musicians here in Tairāwhiti, as well as the audiences they serve. Responding to the opportunities and challenges that exist now and in the future, while making the most of the wonderful benefits that music already provides to our community, are at the core of this important piece of work.”

The community survey will be available online through to the end of April. To be part of this innovative research project, be sure to have your say and join with the voices of others in the mapping of music in Tairāwhiti. www.whatmusicsmeanstome.nz

Aotearoa Touring Programme, March 2023 round open!

The March 2023 round of the Aotearoa Touring Programme is now open and closes on Wednesday 8th March @ 5.00pm.

The Aotearoa Touring Programme is a matched investment programme (i.e. the Programme will match your investment), so applicants can apply for 50% of the eligible costs for undertaking national tours across the two Tiers. The different Tiers have a maximum limit for each grant.  A national tour will include at least three dates.

Prospective applicants must be performing 100% original (or close to) New Zealand Music and will need to contact the Music Commission for access to the online application portal.  When getting in get in touch, please send through the proposed tour dates, towns & cities, venues, why you want to play in these towns (previously successful shows, good airplay on local radio, interest from the area etc), and approximately how much you intend to apply for.

The application process will require you to have a full budget and business plan that will show how this investment will contribute to growing the artist’s business and career.

For information about the Programme can be found here

March round

Wednesday 8 March: Applications close at 5.00pm                 

Thursday 20 April: ATP results communicated to applicants.

 May round

Wednesday 10 May: Applications close at 5.00pm                 

Thursday 15 June: ATP results communicated to applicants.

For further information and advice about the Aotearoa Touring Programme please contact Emily Crowther at touring@nzmusic.org.nz.

LA LA LA FAMILY FESTIVAL CELEBRATES WOMEN IN MUSIC FEATURING ANIKA MOA, VALKYRIE, LIPS & MORE

LA LA LA FAMILY FESTIVAL CELEBRATES WOMEN IN MUSIC FEATURING ANIKA MOA, VALKYRIE, LIPS & MORE!

La La La festival hosted in Whanganui on February 18 boasts an incredible line-up, celebrating women in music from Whanganui and around Aotearoa including Anika Moa, Valkyrie, Lips, Ripple Effect, The Flow Collective and Sophie Toyne.

La La La is a whānau friendly event with free tickets for under 16 year olds. Alongside a diverse musical programme there are all sorts of other activities on offer for a fun day out with the family.

La La La is held in conjunction with the La Fiesta Women's Festival, and is the second whānau day in the Lost Art Summer in the Square series.

Event organiser Gioia Damosso shares "As a female promoter it is so exciting for me to be able to create an event celebrating women in music and also take part in the wonderful women's festival that is La Fiesta. La La La is the perfect event for the whole whānau with an array of family friendly activities and an amazingly diverse line up of musicians from all over Aotearoa!"

Singer-songwriter Anika Moa is one of New Zealand’s most celebrated music artists. She has released six studio albums, been nominated for numerous awards, and won four NZ Music Awards – including Best Female Vocalist. As well as her pop albums, Anika has also had three wildly successful children’s albums titled Songs For Bubbas. Anika’s sharp wit and hilarious banter have also made waves on television, radio and online. After 20 years of performing live, it’s pretty clear Anika knows not only how to hold a crowd but also to entertain one.

Valkyrie, is a 4 piece pop/rock band formed in Auckland, New Zealand. Valkyrie crafts a wide range of escapist and original songs written about real life experiences. On stage they explode with raw energy, precision and audience participation. They have recently played a nationwide tour, favorites at Splore Festival (3x), Soundsplash festival and opening for New Zealand's biggest band Six60 (2021).

2022 Taite Music Prize nominees Lips is a four-piece music group from Tāmaki Makaurau. Their music finds its roots in the familiar melodies of homegrown Indie, the tender embrace of Synth Pop, and the humorous side-eye of American New Wave. Ultimately resulting in a sound that's a celebration of feeling awkward and embracing it anyway. The band’s song "Everything to Me" won the 2012 Silver Scroll Award.

Completing the impressive line up are local acts; Ripple Effect a 5 Piece reggae fusion band from Palmerston North, The Flow Collective bringing a show that celebrates the Whanganui River and the stories of its people, featuring traditional and contemporary musical forms, including jazz, working songs, sea shanties, folk, country and pop and Sophie Toyne a 12 year old Whanganui country singer and winner of the Junior Section at the Gore Golden Guitars 2021, Junior Overall Winner of the NZCMA Entertainer of the year 2020, runner up for Entertainer of the Year 2021 and 2022.

"The Lost Art Summer in the Square series is about reaching out to a diverse community and providing entertainment for everyone" shares Damosso. "Whanganui is often left off of touring schedules and so I am passionate about bringing artists to Whanganui who have often never had the opportunity to perform here. Held in the heart of Whanganui, we are activating the community space of Majestic Square with vibrancy with the help of world class musicians from around Aotearoa. Whanganui is on the up and up and the perfect holiday destination for a long weekend for those interested in the arts. Whether its, glass, street art, music or simply to enjoy our beautiful awa, there is plenty to see and do in Whanganui.”

Tickets on sale through EVENTBRITE

LA LA LA - Saturday February 18, 1pm - 9pm, Majestic Square, Whanganui

Reminder Taite Music Prize 2023, Auckland Live Best Independent Debut and 2023 NZ On Air Outstanding Music Journalism

Nominations close next week at 5.00 pm on Wednesday, 1st February 2023.

For the full detail on specific eligibility and nomination forms please visit: www.indies.co.nz 

Taite Music Prize ceremony to be held April 18th, 2023

Independent Music NZ (IMNZ) announces the return of the Taite Music Prize for 2023. Celebrating the unique voices of Aotearoa music and those that champion them. Nominations for the main Taite Music Prize, the Auckland Live Best Independent Debut Award and the NZ On Air Outstanding Music Journalism Award have now opened. 

Now in its 13th year, the main Taite Music Prize highlights outstanding albums; recognising and celebrating the depth of talent and breadth of genres that make up Aotearoa’s unique musical voice. The highly coveted Taite Music Prize is open to all genres of music and judged on artistic merit regardless of genre, sales, or record label. Any Aotearoa/New Zealand album released during the calendar year of 2022 is eligible for nomination.  The winner receives a cash prize of $12,500, thanks to Founding Partner Recorded Music NZ. Previous recipients include Aldous Harding, Anthonie Tonnon, Avantdale Bowling Club, Ladi6, Lorde and Troy Kingi. 

IMNZ Chairperson, Pip Ryan-Kidd says “2022 has been another extraordinary year for Aotearoa’s independent musician’s, with strong representation in released music, awards and touring. This year's judging panel will have a very tough time deciding who will take home our coveted Taite Music Prize trophy.

We are excited to return the Awards to our previous late April date, to be able to usher in the celebrations of NZ Music Month in May. IMNZ is immensely proud to produce an Award Ceremony that reflects creativity and puts artistic talent at the very core of the event. Once again, we look forward to hosting the celebration in the seated Rangatira at Q Theatre, and encourage Aotearoa’s music community to join us.”

The Auckland Live Best Independent Debut Award celebrates the freshest talent of Aotearoa. We are celebrating debut albums or EPs (with a total of at least four tracks and/or duration of more than 20 minutes), released by IMNZ members in the previous year. Thanks to Auckland Live, the winner receives a $2000 cash prize plus a performance or technical upskilling opportunity.

From Auckland Live, Helaina Keeley, Manager Creative Industries Development, comments “Auckland Live is proud to continue our partnership with the Taite Music Prize with support for the Best Independent Debut Award in 2023.  New Zealand is blessed with a wealth of new music talent and we’re looking forward to once again supporting and celebrating one of these incredible artists next year.”

An academy of all current members of IMNZ, musicians, and music industry personnel vote to produce the shortlisted finalist albums. Next, an independent panel debates and scrutinises the shortlisted albums to decide the winner. That panel comprises musicians, journalists, and music industry professionals with a wide variety of different backgrounds and personal tastes.

The NZ On Air Outstanding Music Journalism Award debuted last year as the first of its kind for Aotearoa/New Zealand created in the spirit of legendary broadcaster Dylan Taite and to  extend IMNZ’s mandate to celebrate those who give media space to music from Aotearoa. The ground-breaking addition to the Taite Music Prize for 2022 celebrates special individuals who made a creative contribution and significant impact with coverage of Aotearoa music in the previous calendar year. 

For the award’s inaugural year, finalists were shortlisted by the IMNZ board, and the finalists were of the highest calibre including; Undertheradar.co.nz ’s editorial team, Chris Cudby and Annabel Kean,   Rova’s 'Aotearoa Hip Hop: The Music, The People, The History' - Podcast creators; DJ Sirvere and Martyn Pepperell, 95bFM’s Long Player “Milk III - Reuben Winter” episode - Producer; Jess Fu and the 2022 recipient was producer and journalist; Tony Stamp of RNZ Music’s The Sampler. Alison Mau was extended a special commendation for her work for Stuff covering NZ music industry practices and sexual harm prevention.

The NZ On Air Outstanding Music Journalism Award comes with a $2500 cash prize. It is open to nominations from NZ music journalists, bloggers or editors who have made a creative contribution and significant impact in truth-telling and innovative reporting in the Aotearoa music industry.

The Taite Awards ceremony also includes the Independent Music NZ Classic Record presentation. This award acknowledges one New Zealand record released over 20 years ago on an independent label. These records, whether a 12”, a compilation, EP, or full-length album have become quintessential gold nuggets of our musical history and have included Patea Māori Club for 'Poi E', The Clean’s Boodle Boodle Boodle and Upper Hutt Posse’s E Tū. 

The Independent Spirit Award will be in its fifth year in 2023. Devised to recognise and celebrate someone passionate about NZ music; who's ahead of the game in creativity, diversity, and imagination; and has dedicated themself to helping artists or music people to grow and find their unique pathways. The Board of IMNZ determines the annual recipient.

For more details on specific eligibility and nomination forms please visit: http://www.indies.co.nz Nominations close 5.00 pm on Wednesday, 1st February 2023.

SIX60 & SONY MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT NEW ZEALAND ANNOUNCE MASSIVE RECORDS

Sony Music Entertainment New Zealand and kiwi legends SIX60 launch Massive Records, an exciting new joint venture record label combining the A&R direction and mentorship of SIX60 with the marketing and promotional power of the Sony Music New Entertainment Zealand team.

Massive Records is predominantly run out of SIX60’s Auckland studio where the band mentors, records and runs part of its label operations with their growing roster that includes chart-toppers COTERIE (Te Aupouri, Ngāpuhi, Ngāi Te Rāngi), and emerging singer-songwriters HINA (Ngāti Raukawa) and Spencer Coyle.

“We’re stoked to finally announce Massive Records, a label run by artists for artists in the modern world,” says SIX60’s Matiu Walters. “Twelve years ago, we created our own label out of necessity, which allowed us to share our music with the world and gave us years of experience controlling every aspect of our journey. We have always desired to share that knowledge and use our position to help the next generation of artists and that’s why we’ve launched Massive Records. We love music, and we love seeing artists’ dreams come true.”

Speaking on the joint venture with Sony Music Entertainment New Zealand, Walters says, “We had worked with them on projects in the past, and loved those experiences, and we respect Kim Boshier and her team.”

Vanessa Picken, Chair & CEO of Sony Music Entertainment Australia & New Zealand, says, “I am so excited to partner with the immensely talented Six60 and the incredible artists that they will be bringing into the Sony family. SIX60 share our ethos when it comes to finding and developing new artists and the pathway to success. Fostering and amplifying talent is at the core of what we do, and I cannot wait to see our partnership flourish.”

Kim Boshier, Managing Director of Sony Music Entertainment New Zealand says, “At Sony Music NZ we’ve long been fans of SIX60 and everything they’ve achieved so we’re excited to finally be working together. We first met Ji and Eli when they produced Mitch James’ Platinum debut album, and witnessed first-hand how great they were, not just as producers but as mentors to young artists. We’re really looking forward to building this new label together.”

The joint venture began in 2021 with the signing of COTERIE; a signing led by SIX60 multi-instumentalist and songwriter, Marlon Gerbes. “The brothers are such an amazing whānau, and that spirit is strong throughout them and their music. Working with them has been loads of fun,” says Gerbes.

The day-to-day running of the label is overseen by Massive Records Label Manager, Aroha Rerekura (Ngāpuhi, Te Ātihaunui-a-Pāpārangi), previously Product Manager for Universal Pictures New Zealand for over 6 years. Rerekura is the backbone to the everyday operations for SIX60 and the Massive Records roster. She brings her experience in delivering largescale projects to the fore in this new role, guiding the releases to delivery with her trademark know-how, can-do attitude.

The Massive Records team are excited for the future of their upcoming talent, HINA and Spencer Coyle. Marlon Gerbes was instantly drawn to the haunting, cerebral sounds of HINA following a recommendation from a friend and the rest was history. HINA came through the Pao Pao Pao program, mentored by TEEKS and Ngatapa Black, setting a steady grounding in her songwriting, artform and māoritanga.

Word of mouth truly is the kiwi way. SIX60 guitarist and songwriter, Ji Fraser chanced upon a bag of demos from teenage Spencer Coyle, with the recommendation of Coyle’s boss at the time and Fraser’s cousin. New Zealand is small that way. Coyle’s debut single ‘Somebody To Love’ was written with Fraser in the final minutes of a recording session, demonstrating the songwriting power of this pair.

Today COTERIE release their debut self-titled album, a long-time labour of love and the first album to be released under Massive Records. Marking the occassion, SIX60 and COTERIE team up on a new single ‘Always Beside You’ which features some heartwarming footage between the bands on SIX60’s ongoing SIX60 Saturdays Stadium tour.

The driving force of Massive Records revolves around a Tuakana system of mentoring, nurturing and guidence from the SIX60 whānau to the signed artists. The members of SIX60 can be seen working day and night across the recording and songwriting process with the artists in a producer capacity, with the SIX60 studio becoming a binding wharenui for everyone involved. Massive Records is a vessel built to navigate the future of Aotearoa New Zealand popular music by investing in promising musical talent with the support and guidence of the SIX60 and Sony Music Entertainment New Zealand whānau.

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Independent Music NZ Announces Taite Music Prize 2023 Nominations are now open

Independent Music NZ

Announces Taite Music Prize 2023

Nominations are now open

+

Auckland Live Best Independent Debut

Nominations now open

+

2023 NZ On Air Outstanding Music Journalism

Nominations now open

+

Taite Music Prize ceremony to be held April 18th, 2023

For the full detail on specific eligibility and nomination forms please visit: www.indies.co.nz

Nominations for the Taite Music Prize close at 5.00 pm on Wednesday, 1st February 2023.

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Independent Music NZ (IMNZ) with the support of Founding Partner Recorded Music NZ announces the return of the Taite Music Prize for 2023. Celebrating the unique voices of Aotearoa music and those that champion them, nominations for the main Taite Music Prize, the Auckland Live Best Independent Debut Award and the NZ On Air Outstanding Music Journalism Award have now opened. 

Now in its 13th year, the main Taite Music Prize highlights outstanding albums; recognising and celebrating the depth of talent and breadth of genres that make up Aotearoa’s unique musical voice. The highly coveted Taite Music Prize is open to all genres of music and judged on artistic merit regardless of genre, sales, or record label. Any Aotearoa/New Zealand album released during the calendar year of 2022 is eligible for nomination.  The winner receives a cash prize of $12,500, thanks to Founding Partner Recorded Music NZ. Previous recipients include Aldous Harding, Anthonie Tonnon, Avantdale Bowling Club, Ladi6, Lorde and Troy Kingi.

IMNZ Chairperson, Pip Ryan-Kidd says “2022 has been another extraordinary year for Aotearoa’s independent musician’s, with strong representation in released music, awards and touring. This year's judging panel will have a very tough time deciding who will take home our coveted Taite Music Prize trophy.

We are excited to return the Awards to our previous late April date, to be able to usher in the celebrations of NZ Music Month in May. IMNZ is immensely proud to produce an Award Ceremony that reflects creativity and puts artistic talent at the very core of the event. Once again, we look forward to hosting the celebration in the seated Rangatira at Q Theatre, and encourage Aotearoa’s music community to join us.”

Recorded Music NZ CEO, Jo Oliver says “We are very proud to continue our support of the Taite Music Prize and celebrate the artistic achievement of the vibrant independent music sector in Aotearoa.”

The Auckland Live Best Independent Debut Award celebrates the freshest talent of Aotearoa. We are celebrating debut albums or EPs (with a total of at least four tracks and/or duration of more than 20 minutes), released by IMNZ members in the previous year. Thanks to Auckland Live, the winner receives a $2000 cash prize plus a performance or technical upskilling opportunity.

From Auckland Live, Helaina Keeley, Manager Creative Industries Development, comments “Auckland Live is proud to continue our partnership with the Taite Music Prize with support for the Best Independent Debut Award in 2023.  New Zealand is blessed with a wealth of new music talent and we’re looking forward to once again supporting and celebrating one of these incredible artists next year.”

An academy of all current members of IMNZ, musicians, and music industry personnel vote to produce the shortlisted finalist albums. Next, an independent panel debates and scrutinises the shortlisted albums to decide the winner. That panel comprises musicians, journalists, and music industry professionals with a wide variety of different backgrounds and personal tastes.

The NZ On Air Outstanding Music Journalism Award debuted last year as the first of its kind for Aotearoa/New Zealand created in the spirit of legendary broadcaster Dylan Taite and to  extend IMNZ’s mandate to celebrate those who give media space to music from Aotearoa. The ground-breaking addition to the Taite Music Prize for 2022 celebrates special individuals who made a creative contribution and significant impact with coverage of Aotearoa music in the previous calendar year.

For the award’s inaugural year, finalists were shortlisted by the IMNZ board, and the finalists were of the highest calibre including; Undertheradar.co.nz ’s editorial team, Chris Cudby and Annabel Kean,   Rova’s 'Aotearoa Hip Hop: The Music, The People, The History' - Podcast creators; DJ Sirvere and Martyn Pepperell, 95bFM’s Long Player “Milk III - Reuben Winter” episode - Producer; Jess Fu and the 2022 recipient was producer and journalist; Tony Stamp of RNZ Music’s The Sampler. Alison Mau was extended a special commendation for her work for Stuff covering NZ music industry practices and sexual harm prevention.

The NZ On Air Outstanding Music Journalism Award comes with a $2500 cash prize. It is open to nominations from NZ music journalists, bloggers or editors who have made a creative contribution and significant impact in truth-telling and innovative reporting in the Aotearoa music industry.

The Taite Awards ceremony also includes the Independent Music NZ Classic Record presentation. This award acknowledges one New Zealand record released over 20 years ago on an independent label. These records, whether a 12”, a compilation, EP, or full-length album have become quintessential gold nuggets of our musical history and have included Patea Māori Club for 'Poi E', The Clean’s Boodle Boodle Boodle and Upper Hutt Posse’s E Tū.

The Independent Spirit Award will be in its fifth year in 2023. Devised to recognise and celebrate someone passionate about NZ music; who's ahead of the game in creativity, diversity, and imagination; and has dedicated themself to helping artists or music people to grow and find their unique pathways. The Board of IMNZ determines the annual recipient.

For more details on specific eligibility and nomination forms please visit: http://www.indies.co.nz
Nominations close 5.00 pm on Wednesday, 1st February 2023.

Editors Notes:

The eponym for the awards is the late Dylan Taite, one of  New Zealand’s most respected TV music journalists. He became known for his Liverpudlian wry wit and his unabashed chutzpah-love of music. Dylan’s unique style captured some rare interviews over the decades. Interviews with The Sex Pistols, Deep Purple, and the career-defining Bob Marley are still referenced today.

https://www.audioculture.co.nz/profile/dylan-taite

The Taite Music Prize

Presented by: Independent Music New Zealand (IMNZ)

Founding Partner: Recorded Music NZ

Official Partners: NZ On Air / The Taite Family

Award Partners: Auckland Live

Event Partners: Q Theatre

Supporting Partners: FUGA / Panhead Breweries / NZ Music Commission / APRA AMCOS / Media Arts Lawyers / Commotion Ltd. / McCarthy Design / Merlin / Oceania / ToneDeaf / College Hill / Spyglass / Loop / Auckland City Of Music

Media Partners: RNZ Music / 95bFM

Charity Partners: MusicHelps

Previous winners of The Taite Prize:

2010 - Lawrence Arabia - Chant Darling (Honorary Bedouin Records)

2011 - Ladi6 - The Liberation Of (What? Music)

2012 - Unknown Mortal Orchestra – Unknown Mortal Orchestra (Seeing Records)

2013 – SJD - Elastic Wasteland (Round Trip Mars)

2014 – Lorde - Pure Heroine (Universal Music NZ)

2015 – Jakob – Sines (Shoot The Freak)

2016 – Silicon - Personal Computer (Weird World/Domino Recordings)

2017 - Street Chant - Hauora (Arch Hill Recordings)

2018 - Aldous Harding - Party (Flying Nun Records / 4AD)

2019 - Avantdale Bowling Club  - Avantdale Bowling Club (Years Gone By)

2020 – Troy Kingi – Holy Colony Burning Acres (Triple A Records)

2021 - Reb Fountain - Reb Fountain (Flying Nun Records)

2022 - Anthonie Tonnon - Leave Love Out Of This (Slow Time Records)

Previous Winners of the  Independent Music NZ Classic Record:

2013 – Gordons – Gordons (Flying Nun)

2014 – Various Artists – AK79 (Ripper Records)

2015 – Herbs – What’s Be Happen? (Warrior Records)

2016 – Upper Hutt Posse – E Tū (Jayrem Records)

2017 - The Clean - Boodle Boodle Boodle (Flying Nun)

2018 - Headless Chickens - Stunt Clown (Flying Nun)

2019 - Moana and the Moahunters - Tahi (Southside)

2020 – Shona Laing – South (Pagan Records)

2021 - Patea Māori Club - 'Poi E' (Maui Records)

2022 - PROUD - An Urban-Pacific Streetsoul Compilation

Previous Winners of the Auckland Live Best Independent Debut:

2017 - Merk - Swordfish  (self released)

2018 - The Miltones - The Miltones (Self-released)

2019 - Alien Weaponry - Tū (Self-released)

2020 – Repulsive Woman – Relief (Independent)

2021 - Na Noise - Waiting For You (1:12 Records)

2022 - Jazmine Mary - The Licking of a Tangerine (Flying Nun)

Independent Spirit Award

2019 -  Bernie Griffin

2020 - Murray Cammick

2021 - Pete Rainey and Glenn Common of Smokefree Rockquest

2022 - Karyn Hay - ONZM

NZ On Air Outstanding Music Journalism

2022 - Tony Stamp - RNZ Journalist

Gig Starters – A Seminar & Workshop About Putting On All Ages Gigs

GIG STARTERS SEMINAR & WORKSHOP ABOUT PUTTING ON ALL AGES GIGS

2PM TO 5PM, SUNDAY 20 NOVEMBER – TĀMAKI MAKAURAU AT BIG FAN

Gig Starters Aotearoa are hosting a free event on Sunday 20 November at Big Fan with a seminar, a production workshop and an all ages gig!

Kicking off at 2:00pm, we’ll be discussing the need-to-knows of putting on your own all ages gig with a crew of industry professionals, a local recording artist and a production technician.

After the hui will be a workshop at a real-life soundcheck, with the chance to watch and be part of a live production set-up.

And then in celebration of releasing the first Gig Starters Zine at 4pm, it's gig time! We’re lucky to have rising local stars COAST ARCADE performing.

There will be an awesome team heading along to share their wisdom about putting on great all ages shows. The Panel or ‘Crew’ as we like to call them for this event are:

Bella Bavin - Front-woman and songwriter for emerging self-managed indie rock band Coast Arcade.

Ciara Bernstein - Founder of all ages venue/recording and rehearsal space 'The Vault’, Ciara is a multi-instrumentalist playing in a number of Tāmaki Makaurau bands as well as a key member of the Girls Rock! / To The Front programme.

Gussie Larkin - Gussie has her fingers in many pies within the music industry - which vary from working in the promoter department for Live Nation Aotearoa, to programming the Garden Stage at Rhythm n Vines and promoting tours with Drunken Piano Touring. She is also a successful recording artist from the bands Mermaidens and Earth Tongue.

Noema Te Hau lll - Currently the in-house Audio Engineer and producer at Big Fan, Noema is a multi-skilled music specialist with experience as a tertiary educator, music producer, audio engineer, songwriter, music director and performer.

Rodney Fisher - Special Projects and Events Manager for NZ Music Commission, Rodney is also a solo artist and front person for Goodshirt.

All are welcome to attend, and it's free entry - just make sure to RSVP by Friday Nov 18 at gigstarters.co.nz

This NZ Music Commission event has been made possible with help from UNESCO Auckland City Of Music.

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What is Gig Starters?

Gig Starters is an initiative run by the NZ Music Commission to inspire young people to put on gigs of their own all around Aotearoa.

‘Creating live gigs is an awesome way to make first steps into the industry as a musician or someone who is interested in a career behind the scenes in music. You’ll get to be part of putting on an event showcasing great local music, and learn new skills at the same time.’ - Rodney Fisher, NZ Music Commission.

It started as an event … Gig Starters began last year when the Music Commission ran a series of seminars in Auckland, Palmerston North, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin. The seminars in every town were followed by an all ages gig.

Then it became a zine … For the next part of the Gig Starters initiative we have created a zine style booklet called A Guide To All Ages Music Events In Aotearoa.

This booklet gives an overview of putting on entry level music events and offers advice and first-hand information from musicians and industry professionals, featuring Gussie Larkin from Mermaidens and Earth Tongue, music writer Gareth Shute, Shannon Novak (the founder of Safe Space Alliance) as well as the Music Commission’s Rodney Fisher.

The zine was illustrated by Moskon Review, an artist from Hamilton who has created many gig posters over the years and is part of the team at the local music venue Last Place.

To read the digital zine head over to gigstarters.co.nz

For more information, contact Rodney Fisher, NZ Music Commission: 09 3760115 / rodney@nzmusic.org.nz

Aotearoa Touring Programme, January 2023 round is open now!

The January 2023 round of the Aotearoa Touring Programme is now open and closes on Wednesday 18th January @ 5.00pm.

The Aotearoa Touring Programme is a matched investment programme (i.e. the Programme will match your investment), so applicants can apply for 50% of the eligible costs for undertaking national tours across the two Tiers. The different Tiers have a maximum limit for each grant.  A national tour will include at least three dates.

Prospective applicants must be performing 100% original (or close to) New Zealand Music and will need to contact the Music Commission for access to the online application portal.  When getting in get in touch, please send through the proposed tour dates, towns & cities, venues, why you want to play in these towns (previously successful shows, good airplay on local radio, interest from the area etc), and approximately how much you intend to apply for.

The application process will require you to have a full budget and business plan that will show how this investment will contribute to growing the artist’s business and career.

For information about the Programme can be found here

Opening and closing dates for 2022 - 2023.

January round

Monday 17 October: Applications open

Wednesday 18 January: Applications close at 5.00pm

Thursday 16 February: ATP results communicated to applicants.

March round

Monday 24 January: Applications open

Wednesday 8 March: Applications close at 5.00pm                 

Thursday 20 April: ATP results communicated to applicants

May round

Monday 13 March: Applications open

Wednesday 10 May: Applications close at 5.00pm                 

Thursday 15 June: ATP results communicated to applicants.

For further information and advice about the Aotearoa Touring Programme please contact Emily Crowther at touring@nzmusic.org.nz.