2022 has been a largely successful year for Burnside High School’s Funk Band.

Lead by Cain Hood, this 12 piece auditioned funk ensemble has had a wild year, prevailing over several covid related disruptions. The band comprises students ranging from year 9 to 13, and has performed at several events and competitions throughout 2022, including: Burnside High School’s Year 13 Graduation, Contemporary Showcase, Christchurch Big Band Festival and more.

In 2022 we performed a repertoire comprising a variety of well known funk songs, including some modern pieces chosen by students themselves. The band has an amazing equilibrium between student and staff leadership, which allows for the student voice to be expressed and heard within the band.

Funk band typically rehearses from 3-4pm on Thursdays, however, due to several interferences on various occasions, the band regularly went several weeks without a rehearsal. Despite this, we competed in 2022 Ara Jazz Quest, winning the award for the most outstanding Ensemble.

My most fond memory was our feature performance at the 2022 Year 13 Graduation. It was the band's final performance of the year, and it served as an amazing opportunity to showcase the work we had put in throughout the year to our peers. Funk band is an immensely talented group whose members have amazing band chemistry. The band was an amazing opportunity that I was lucky to have been part of since 2020. I wish the best of luck to the Funk Band!

2022 Burnside High School Funk Band

Rhythm Section
Dylan Blundell (Drums/Percussion) - Year 13
Adam Nicholl (Drums/Percussion) - Year 11
Emma Gibson (Electric Bass) - Year 13
Jacob Mullen (Electric Guitar) - Year 11
Sung-Woo Han (Keyboard) - Year 13

Vocals
Monet Schutte - Year 11
May Clark - Year 13

Horns
Ben MacDonald (Trumpet) - Year 13
Sam Kennedy (Alto Saxophone) - Year 13
Isolde Johnson (Tenor Saxophone) - Year 12
Will Kao (Trombone) - Year 12
Alex Gibson (Baritone Saxophone) - Year 9