Talented young musicians performing. Photo/Supplied
Talented young musicians performing. Photo/Supplied
Rotorua will be alive with the sound of music when Rhapsody Rotorua begins in town.
Rotorua will be the host to some of New Zealand and Australia's most talented music students as they congregate for the week-long festival celebrating music and emerging talent.
Rhapsody Rotorua will include two free concerts will feature music of all genres with concert bands, orchestras, big bands, choirs, string and percussion groups, jazz singers and more.
The concerts are at 7pm on Thursday July 5 and Friday July 6 at the Harvest Centre.
Karene Phillips, the leader for WorldStrides Performing Arts programmes, says Rhapsody Rotorua is a rare opportunity for music students to connect with like-minded peers, build confidence onstage by performing at public concerts and local schools, and further their development through adjudication and professional coaching.
"It's remarkable how much they progress as musicians and performers in such a short space of time."
She says the festival has some amazing highlights - from performance adjudications led by world-renowned musicians to performing two free concerts for the local community.
It is an opportunity for students to showcase their talent, and all of their hard-work and dedication, she says.
"Experiencing Rotorua's rich cultural heritage and unique geothermal environment is a major highlight for the students and makes the festival the spectacular event that it is.
"Students love visiting Rotorua, experiencing the warm and welcoming hospitality of the local community and making the most of its fantastic attractions and activities - there's no other place like Rotorua."
Young musicians playing at a previous Rhapsody Rotorua. Photo/Supplied
She encourages the local community to check out the concerts because they will be blown away by the talent of these young musicians.
"The concerts are a unique opportunity to experience an incredibly high calibre of music from remarkably talented young musicians for free.
"It's immensely rewarding for the community. Nothing compares to witnessing the spectacular talent of these students, knowing that your support made it possible."
Destination Rotorua international trade manager Patrick Dault says Rhapsody Rotorua Music Festival is a great event for our city.
"It showcases the sublime educational potential of our destination. Young performers from Australia and New Zealand get to enjoy Rotorua's rich cultural heritage and our unique geothermal environment.
"They gain valuable experience, performing to packed public venues. Students love coming to Rotorua and making the most of our attractions and activities."
The festival runs from July 2 to July 8.
The Details - What: Rhapsody Rotorua public concerts - When: 7pm on Thursday July 5 and Friday July 6 - Where: Harvest Centre - Tickets: Free. Tickets available from Ticketmaster.co.nz or at the Rotorua Energy Events Centre.
