'Revolver' music festival is music to students ears

Up-and-coming singer/song writer Alayna Powley will be one of the feature acts at the Waiariki Institute of Technology's Revolver music and creative arts festival.

The five-hour festival tomorrow afternoon, hosted by Maori TV presenter Saelyn Guyton, highlighted the work of students enrolled in the Academy of Singing and Music from the past year, said manager Richard Anaru.

Powley, a former Rotorua resident now studying music in Auckland, has been billed as the next big pop sensation to rival Lorde.

She will perform at the festival alongside reggae band 1840, and six bands from the Auckland-based Music and Audio Institute of New Zealand.

Others appearing will be Smokefree Pacifica Beats finals winner Strangely Arousing, and regional winners Aftershock.

Pop, heavy metal and country will feature during the afternoon along with a fashion show and student art works will also be on display on the day.

All proceeds from the afternoon will go towards Canteen Rotorua, Youthline and Rotary Rotorua Sunrise projects.

Mr Anaru said the festival would be a celebration of music and creative arts by the students.

"We're expecting a good crowd on the day to support local talented musicians," he said.

"It's party time for the students to give them the opportunity to forge a career in music when they graduate with a certificate and diploma in music performance."

The festival, which is alcohol and drug free, is planned to be annual event.

Where: Waiariki Institute of Technology Mokoia Campus
When: Saturday 1pm-6pm
Tickets: $15