Postgate School band win

Overcoming shaking legs and nerves has lead to a big win for a Porirua school band.

The eight members of Evolution, from Postgate School, competed against 250 musicians from Wellington schools to take first place in the Wellington Regional Intermediate Battle of the Bands on November 8.

Guitarist Onjilique Va, 13, said she was terrified before she took the stage to perform.

‘‘My legs were shaking before and when we were performing - I thought we were doing poorly as there seemed to be little response from the audience.

‘‘But at the end when people stood up and clapped I thought maybe we did well.’’

The win was a big surprise for singer Alexis Vitaliano, 12, who thought some of the larger schools would win.

‘‘When they called our name out as the winners it was a rush. I felt very emotional.’’

Connecting with the songs they played was critical to the performers’ success, deputy principal Ron Morrissey said.

‘‘The band did the simple things very well, they were a tight unit who gave up many hours to practice.’’

Principal Adam Campbell said the win was a real team effort between students, staff and parents.

‘‘Postgate is fortunate to have a talented musician on staff in Ron, who is passionate about seeing children enjoy success.’’

The band ‘‘went from good to great’’ with the assistance of professional musicians Wini Baxter and Vai Ioane, he said.

Evolution consisted of Alexia Vitaliano, Coral Baker, Elijah Mareko, Onjilique Va, Jalen Lambert, Merroo Tofilau, Ieremia Allen and Jerome Ioane.

Jerome was named best drummer at the competition.