During Term One, the various ensembles at Westlake embarked on their camps. On 1 March, the Westlake Instrumental Academy boarded the bus and journeyed to Ngaruawahia for a weekend filled with rehearsals, enjoyable activities, and team bonding.

The Westlake Instrumental Academy comprises multiple ensembles – WGHS Symphonic Band, Taharoto Orchestra, Westlake Girls Jazz Band, and our percussion ensemble, Swan Strike. The groups are directed and coordinated by Jono Howan and Jono Palmer.

While the WGHS Symphonic Band and Taharoto Orchestra have been long-standing groups at Westlake Girls, the Jazz Band and Swan Strike are newer additions, formed just last year. Consolidating these groups into one academy aims to foster unity among players and expose them to a variety of music genres and performance styles.
Preparations for upcoming performances were in full swing. The students, many of whom play across multiple groups, diligently devoted their focus and energy toward learning new pieces.

During the camp, students enjoyed great meals and engaging games, and they covered a range of impressive repertoire. Their hard work and progress over the weekend set a strong foundation for the rest of the year’s performances.

The camp’s success was only possible with the additional support of dedicated staff and supervisors, including Kasey Lui, Miriam Robinson, and Sian Howan.