Making Music & Spreading Peace
We are absolutely thrilled to announce that four of our incredibly talented students have been named finalists in the prestigious Play It Strange Peace Song Competition!
The competition challenges young songwriters to write a track focused on the theme of peace – however they chose to interpret it. Out of entries from students all over the country, several of our contemporary music students managed to stand out.
A massive congratulations to:
- Isabella Howard (Y12) – Inside Out
- Avishi Jain (Y12) – A Little More
- Kimberly Paula Quiambao (Y12) – Clemintine
- Hollie Blackwell (Y13) – Saving You.
The Prize: Heading to the Studio
As their prize, all four songwriters will get the incredible opportunity to record their tracks in a professional recording studio alongside an industry producer. Their finished songs will be featured on the official Play It Strange Peace Song Album, which will be released on all major streaming platforms. Best of all, the students retain full rights and royalties for their music. We are immensely proud of their hard work, creativity, and dedication.
A Special Visit from Indie Musician Nat Hutton
Adding to the musical excitement, we were lucky enough to host Nat Hutton from the brilliant Kiwi indie band There’s a Tuesday. Nat, who also works with Play It Strange, came in to meet our songwriters and talk to them about the other upcoming competitions. Some of our brave students even shared their latest songwriting creations with her, receiving some great feedback and encouragement.
More Opportunities Coming Up
The songwriting momentum isn’t over. We will be actively encouraging our students to enter the remaining Play It Strange competitions this year.
For any interested students, please note the upcoming dates:
- Waiata Māori Competition – 12 July
- National Songwriting Competition – 26 July
- Play It Strange Album Art Competition – 3 August
We can’t wait to see what our creative students come up with next. Stay tuned to hear the final tracks when the album drops.
