Singer-songwriters set up in South Taranaki

Eighteen years after the first Taranaki singer-songwriter sessions started in New Plymouth, a gig has been organised closer to home for South Taranaki musicians.

Hāwera’s first ever singersongwriters evening is being held on Friday. After a year of work, policy writing, long meetings, funding applications and hard mahi, the Taranaki Singer Songwriter Development Trust have landed their tried and tested brand of singersongwriter in Hāwera.

Promoter Celine Filbee said the event was based on the successful model of the New Plymouth Singer Songwriters sessions, which have been running for 18 years.

“The events provide an inclusive platform for performers of all levels to litmus test and hone their original material,” she said. “Entry is free to both the audience and public, so if you are a musician, come along and perform, and if you are a music lover, come along and prepared to be blown away by the talent of someone local.”

Doors open at 6.30pm, performances start at 7.30pm and entry is free. For further information on the trust and to register to perform, go online and check out this www.taranakisingersongwriters.com/event-details-registration/ singer-songwritershawera-2024-04-05-19-30.

Performers will also be accepted at the door. The event is funded by Creative Communities.

Another free gig the same night, and within walking distance of the singer-songwriters’ event, is a performance by Harley Hokopaura at Signs Lounge Bar, at Cinema2 in Princes St.

Songwriter, guitarist and singer Hokopaura will be playing his brand of beach-groove, laid back originals, Filbee said. “His life observations and experiences are woven into the songs which often have a Ben Harper/jack Johnson-ish feel, plus the odd well placed cover.”

There will be a selection of gin and other beverages, and platters on sale. Book with kirsty@haweracinema.co.nz.