A powerful mix of music and community spirit will take centre stage across the Eastern Bay and Rotorua next month, as musicians come together for the Muso’s Tribute Extravaganza.

The series of open mic-style events, running throughout May Music Month in Whakatāne, Matata, Kawerau and Rotorua, will celebrate the legacy of musicians who have passed while raising funds for cancer services in the region.

One of the organisers, Tania Masters, said the idea was born from a desire to honour the people and the passion that had shaped the music scene here and in Rotorua.

“These events are about acknowledging the contribution of our musicians, while also raising awareness and hope in the fight against cancer,” she said.

Funds raised will support Whakatāne Hospital’s Project Hope Centre and the Rotorua Chemotherapy Unit, both of which provide treatment, support and care coordination for patients and their whānau.

A strong line-up of performers from across the Bay of Plenty will feature at the events, including Stixz n Stonez, Sheryl Laws and Jimmy Patangata, Walna Morgan and Peri Grant, Dave Hiakita – Hodges Road Band, Jim Tipene and Fiona Cosgrove, Wilz Kirk, Dave Stewart, Shelley Akuhata, the Charlie Hunia Band, Kawerau group RUSH, the Tewi Teka whānau band, Reuben Paraha, Kararaina CJ Beckett and the Whakatāne Blues Club and more.

Masters said the stage would also be open to anyone keen to perform.

“These events are open to any musicians who wish to share their music talent,” said Masters.

For Masters, the kaupapa is personal. The extravaganza also pays tribute to her brother, well-known Te Teko musician Ian “Skelz” Hunia, who died from an aggressive form of pancreatic cancer in 2023 at the age of 65.

“Ian started playing drums when he was just 15,” she said. “Our dad bought him a kit, and he went on to play in countless bands and community events, sharing his passion for drumming, singing and music right up until he passed.”

Hunia was also instrumental in founding Kawerau Christmas in the Park and was a familiar face in blues clubs across the region.

“He could play and sing anything. He lived a full life.”

Masters said many musicians, including Hunia’s contemporaries, the late Tait Kora and Robbie Gillies Jnr, had been supported by cancer services, but her brother did not as he died in just weeks. Several others are also remembered.

“It is so heartbreaking watching those that you love slip away and you can’t help. I am just one of so many that have experienced this.”

The events also shine a light on the long-standing open mic culture in the Eastern Bay.

Whakatāne musician Dave Stewart, who will be performing and talking about the history of the open mic night, said early pioneers like Hunia helped establish the scene that continues to thrive today. “They were the generation that really valued quality and craft,” Stewart said. “Every time an open mic kicks off, their legacy lives on.”

Stewart said the region had long been a hub for musical talent.

“There’s something in the water here. This part of the Bay produces a high degree of talent musically.”

Masters said a recent visit to the Whakatāne cancer unit, while supporting a friend, reinforced the importance of the fundraiser.

“We met some amazing staff and even spoke with a patient who had just finished treatment. It really brought home how important these services are.”

Alongside live music, the events will include raffles and merchandise sales, with T-shirts and ribbons available to boost fundraising efforts.

Muso’s Tribute Extravaganza dates:
■ Rotorua – Awhina Muso Club: Sunday, May 3

■ Whakatāne – Mata Beer Open Mic: Sunday, May 10

■ Kawerau – Awhina Muso Ki: Sunday, May 17

■ Matatā – Hotel Open Mic: Sunday, May 30