Standout performances at concert

Studio Ghibli favourite: Leigh Oyanagi performs Merry Go Round of Life by Joe Hisaishi. Photos Warner Haldane

News Editor

Music Whakatāne once again delivered an inspiring showcase of young talent with its latest Young Performers concert, featuring teenage musicians and vocalists.

Held recently at the Church of St George and St John – a venue popular for its superb acoustics – the event included a diverse range of performances across piano, violin, saxophone, guitar, ukulele, and vocals.

“I would honestly say this was some of the highest standards we have had for this particular concert,” said Music Whakatane’s Tom Bayliss, who praised the outstanding violinists among the standouts of this year’s line-up.

From ballads to technically demanding instrumentals, the concert celebrated classical and contemporary music.

EMOTIONAL BALLAD: Ros Eustace sings My Heart will go on by James Horner. 

Support the journalism you love

Make a Donation