School bands rocking out

"When someone does a beat that you can't do, that makes you want to learn that beat, and makes you really determined." Ross Intermediate drummer Jett Donald-charnley, 12

Young musicians were given an intensive introduction to rocking at a primary schools workshop at Palmerston North music venue The Stomach.

About 70 children, who are members of school bands, took part in the Band Camp day on Wednesday, working with teachers from their six schools.

The annual camp was a clever way to ‘‘collectivise resources’’ by sharing teachers’ expertise, Stomach manager Harry Lilley said.

It also introduced young musicians to the facilities available to them through The Stomach.

Russell Street School teacher Nic Mason said the day was a primer to kick off band learning. ‘‘The kids can learn about their instrument, and how to take care of it, how to take care of the cables, or a guitar or a set of drums.

Workshops were held for singers, drummers, guitarists, bassists and keys players. The youngsters were also given foundation lessons and exercises in songwriting.

After Band Camp each band will work on their musicianship, songs and playing together as a group throughout the year, with the goal of coming back together for a concert later in the year.

Drummer Jett Donaldcharnley, 12, from Ross Intermediate, was on Band Camp for his second year. ‘‘When someone does a beat that you can’t do, that makes you want to learn that beat, and makes you really determined.’’

His band The Flaming Unicorns were considering performing in onesies this year, and it was useful picking up more performance and musical ideas from the workshops.

‘‘Young people in my mind are the ones that are making the most interesting music,’’ Lilley said. ‘‘It’s corny saying next generation, but it’s true. We’re here to support new music and musicians and the best way to do this is to make sure everyone knows they can come and they’ll be supported. We want to hear what they have to say and play.’’