Singer-songwriters are always popular
Taranaki is well served with a thriving folk and singer/ songwriter scene, and some excellent venues perfectly suited to intimate events. 4th Wall Theatre regularly hosts high quality acts I thoroughly enjoyed local stars Glass Boat there recently.
There’s also the quirky Studio 64 in Inglewood that oozes local culture and eccentricity. On Saturday March 25 it features Wellington singer/songwriter Niels Gedge with Roy McGuinness.
Radio NZ reviewer Nick Bollinger said of Niels’ second CD, Maui’s Whale: ‘‘It’s a CD full of beautiful playing and personal yet universal songs that draw on timeless traditions of gospel, folk music and blues’’.
Irishman Roy McGuinness brings his ready wit and moving classic songs from the heart of his home country. Admission: $15, Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm show, upstairs at 64 Rata St, Inglewood. Supper in the half time break. You’re assured of a warm welcome and an enjoyable evening, but as the weather turns, I’d advise taking warm layers to wrap up in - authentic historic Inglewood architecture didn’t go in for insulation all that much.
I know as you age doctors and policemen seem to get younger and younger (that’s been going on for years for me), but I don’t think it’s my ageing imagination that accounts for how tiny some of the players in the Taranaki Youth Orchestra are. Some of the string players can barely see over the music stand on its lowest setting. But they love being part of the orchestra, working with conductor Jocelyn Beath, leader Wellington Silva and the accomplished older students and all contribute to the overall effect.
The TYO’s first concert of the year is once again in conjunction with the IRMT award evening, on Friday March 31 at 7pm at St Andrew’s Church. Jocelyn has again worked her magic with choices that the youngsters love playing, and a lot of intensive rehearsing. The programme is aimed to appeal to everyone, especially families, with lots of variety. A little Handel, some Strauss, a bit of Brahms and Bizet, some wonderful modern pieces and the show-stopping Lord of the Dance. The IRMT will recognise last year’s outstanding students with prizes. It’s a great chance for children to be inspired to take up an instrument, and for the older generation to celebrate the success of our up-and-coming talent. (Actually why stop there? More and more research suggests that taking up an instrument in later life protects your brain against ageing, so everyone should be inspired!) Entry by gold coin donation.