During the July holidays, the New Zealand Starry Garden (NZSG) community came together to celebrate its biannual concert, a heartwarming event that showcased the talent and dedication of our young musicians. Held in a festive atmosphere, the concert brought friends, families, and music enthusiasts together to witness an inspiring display of artistry, mentorship, and community spirit.
The day began with a warm welcome from Kino, the leader of Performing Arts at NZSG and mentor to many budding pianists. In his opening address, Kino highlighted the concert’s mission: to provide young musicians a platform to share their hard work and passion with a supportive audience. “Play your heart out,” she encouraged the performers, setting the tone for an uplifting day of music.
The concert’s opening performance, the Butterfly Lovers’ Violin Concerto, set a high standard for the event. Kino and his colleague Angel brought this iconic piece of Chinese orchestral music to life, leaving the audience in awe of its emotional depth and technical brilliance.
A Showcase of Talent
Throughout the first session, performers of all ages graced the stage, each introducing their pieces with confidence and sharing their unique musical journeys. The audience’s attentiveness and applause were a testament to the quality and effort behind each performance. From classical piano solos to dynamic duets like the Wellerman’s secondo part, there was no shortage of variety and excitement.
An interval provided a chance for guests to stretch their legs, enjoy delicious kai, and explore NZSG’s fundraising stalls. Hand-made woolen toys and baked goods, crafted with care by NZSG volunteers, proved popular among attendees. Proceeds from the stall will go towards supporting NZSG’s mission to nurture young musicians and sustain community initiatives.
Energizing the Afternoon
The mini pop concert that followed during the interval brought a fresh burst of energy. Michelle’s opening performance set the stage for an electrifying lineup, offering a contemporary twist to the day’s musical offerings. This segment highlighted NZSG’s commitment to versatility in musical education, blending classical and modern styles.
As the second session commenced, Reyna—who had earlier charmed the audience with her duet—kicked things off with a captivating solo. Performers continued to impress, drawing the concert to a close with a crescendo of talent and passion.
Heartfelt Thanks
In his closing remarks, Kino expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the event. “Congratulations to all who bravely shared their music with us today,” she said, acknowledging not only the performers but also the volunteers who worked behind the scenes. Special thanks went to Amy, whose crocheted creations were a highlight of the fundraising efforts, and Aran, who captured the day’s special moments through photography. Parents were also lauded for their unwavering support, particularly those who provided the delicious home-baked treats that added a personal touch to the event.
The concert concluded with a heartwarming tradition: all performers were invited to the stage to receive a complimentary gift from the NZSG Woolworks Department and pose for a group photo. It was a fitting end to a day that celebrated the power of music to unite and inspire.
Looking Ahead
The NZSG Holiday Concert was more than just a showcase of talent; it was a testament to the strength of our community and the transformative power of music. As we look forward to future events, we remain committed to nurturing the next generation of musicians and creating spaces where their talents can shine. Thank you to everyone who made this concert an unforgettable experience, and we can’t wait to see you at the next one!