Musicians hopeful of Wairarapa residency
Writers, visuals artists and musicians are getting unique opportunities to let their talents blossom as Wairarapa hosts a range of residency programmes.
The latest offering by the rejuvenated New Zealand Pacific Studio is a singer-songwriter artist-in-residency in a cottage in Greytown.
NZ Pacific Studios chairperson Madeleine Slavick said this was a rare opportunity for singersongwriters, and they have had wide interest in the placement from around the world
‘‘There are few residency opportunities for singersongwriters in New Zealand and internationally, and NZ Pacific Studio is looking forward to welcoming a musician to Wairarapa.’’
The residency provided accommodation for the last two weeks of August, with the musician participating in a workshop with local artists and the chance to play two gigs.
‘‘Wairarapa is home to many talented and accomplished musicians. Having the opportunity to meet and work with some of them is an important part of this NZ Pacific Studio initiative,’’ Slavick said.
NZPS board member and local musician Rob Maunsell said the applicants were from across a range of musical styles.
He said the residency gave artists uninterrupted time to focus on their work.
‘‘Two weeks doesn’t seem like a long time, but if somebody’s already got two or three songs already drafted, they could come and try them out.’’
They have planned a public concert in Greytown and an athome music evening at the host’s place during the fortnight residency.
Maunsell said there was also a possibility of arranging a recording session at one of Wairarapa’s studios.
Niels and Janette Gedge north of Greytown are hosting the musician in their rural Greytown cottage.
‘‘They’re great champions of the cause, very willing to support people and give them a shot at playing to an audience,’’ Maunsell said.
The couple hosted a small annual folk festival at the property, he said.
The Cross Creek Blues Club provided some funding for the residency from its closing accounts.
NZPS has hosted hundreds of people since 2001 with its ‘‘nomadic yet international’’ residency programme.
The upcoming singersongwriter residency is taking applications until May 31, with the selection to be made by June 15.