Big Band is the jewel in the crown of the Burnside High School music department.

It’s an auditioned group which this year consisted of 18 musicians and three outstanding vocalists.

At the 2019 ARA Jazzquest competition, we took out the “Best Big Band” award for the fifth year in a row, and many members also picked up individual musician awards. Instead of focusing on competitions at a national level, this year the band went on a “Top of the South” tour encompassing Blenheim and Nelson. While on tour we played at bars, cafes, and schools, and everyone had a blast (including the teachers).

After five years in the band, I am proud to have been a part of it - it has been a highlight of my school career. Mr Petch deserves a big thanks for all of his work as the group’s director, and I wish the other members of the band the best for the future.