Celebrating the achievements and dedication of our multi-talented music students

On Tuesday, October 26th, the Aurora Centre had a more demure set of ceremonies to celebrate the accomplishments of our 2021 music students.

Due to Covid restrictions, the afternoon was split into two ceremonies, the first for years 9-11 and the second for years 12-13. Unfortunately, we were unable to have families attend to help celebrate, but we did provide a livestream that we hope many took the opportunity to watch during or after the events.

The first ceremony began with a performance by the Senior Contemporary Band, while the second ceremony was opened by the Funk Band, who won a Gold award at this year's JazzQuest. Both ceremonies then included performances from the Chamber Orchestra and the Jazz Combo, Chicks from Corea, which also achieved a Gold Award at this year's JazzQuest along with several solo awards for the members. The night also included inspirational addresses by our Principal, Mr Phil Holstein, and BHS Alumni (now New Zealand Assistant Conductor in Residence), Vincent Hardaker, who recorded a heartfelt message from his home in Auckland.

Certificates were awarded for Service to Music (based on a minimum of two years continued involvement in an ensemble or a leadership role) and Achievement in Music (based on awards earned in competitions etc. throughout 2021). There was also the Roll of Honour for those that were accepted into national ensembles, and the cups and trophies for outstanding Year 13 musicians. Despite the fewer number of contests and events in 2021, overall there were still 164 students awarded on the night.

Congratulations to all staff and students of the music department on a successful 2021!

Roll of Honour
Awarded for acceptance into a national ensemble

Elisa Bird - NZSSO
Alfie Buttle - NZSSO
Jack Buttle - NZSSO
Tor Chile - NZSSO
Lucas de Groot-Tsuji - NZSSO
Ocean Faloon-Cavander - NZSSO
Alun James - NZSSO
Grace Jeong - NZSSO
Lena Krakowiak - NZSSO
Caleb Langford - NZSSO
Joshua Langford - NZSSO
Ben MacDonald - NZSSO
Bethany Mitchell - NZSSO
Charlotte Panckhurst - NZSSO
Luke Sutherland - NZSSO
Ciaran Wright - NZSO NYO
Lila Nicholson - NZSSC
Bella Hopkins - NZSSC
Peter Croker - NZ Symphonic Winds
Monika Duncan - National Secondary School Brass Band
Huey Duncan - National Secondary School's Development Band
Akira Lindeman - National Secondary School's Development Band
Daniel Ross - NZSSO and National Secondary School Brass Band

Special Awards

Will Mason - The Principal's Trophy for Excellence in Contemporary or Commercial Music
Zoe Hunter - The Fiona MacKay Cup for Vocal Performance
Ash Freeborn - The Smokefree Cup for Leadership in Music
Ashleigh Min and Kelly Newlands - The Mary Travers for Performance Music
Ciaran Wright - The 1976 School Council Cup for Contribution to Instrumental Music
Emma Suzana - The Jean Cumming Cup for Contribution to Choral Music and The 1976 School Council for Contribution to Music
Elisa Bird - The Peter Rowe Cup for Musicianship