HBHS student ensembles were recognised for their incredible talent amongst a near-record number of entries.

Thirteen talented musicians from our Chamber Music Programme, directed by Mrs Sharon Stephens, performed in the Waikato District Round of the NZCT Chamber Music Contest on Wednesday 4 June.

This competition is unique and a major national event now in its 60th year. Numbers were near record-high, with 33 groups spread across three sessions, creating over six hours of quality performances. Students were fortunate to perform in the beautiful Concert Chamber of the Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts (University of Waikato), which is widely regarded as one of the best venues of its kind in New Zealand.

All our students are to be congratulated on their strong display of musicianship, resulting from many hours of both individual and group practice. Four of our groups were recognised with awards.

Special recognition goes to our Captain of Arts, Matthew Colvin, who was part of the winning group for his third consecutive year. The contest does not award a runner-up, instead recognising top groups in other categories.

Further awards received by our students:

KBB award for the best group including wind or brass:

‘Dominant 3’: Leo Tao, Peng Xie, Andy Liu

Highly Commended 

‘Undiminished Thirds’: Tangtang Yang, Aaron Liu, Luke Chen

‘Ze-trio’: Samuel Xia, Jason Chen, Austin Lai

‘Dominant 3’ (as above)

Best Overall Group

‘Trovarsi Insieme’: Matthew Colvin, Kelly Leung (St Paul’s Collegiate), Eunie Park (Rototuna Senior High).