Music Commission News

Keen to put on your first gig but don’t know where to start? Want to come to an epic all-ages show for free?

Aspiring gig promoters and music enthusiasts in Ōtautahi | Christchurch and Papaieoa | Palmerston North are in for a treat as Gig Starters, an initiative by the New Zealand Music Commission, announces two free hui and all-ages events this July. Designed to inspire and upskill new gig promoters across Aotearoa, these events promise an engaging and educational experience for all attendees.

Ōtautahi Christchurch Event
July 7th, Space Academy, Ōtautahi.
Hui at 4:00 PM, soundcheck at 6:30 PM, and gig at 7:30 PM.
Facebook Event – RSVP here

The Christchurch event will be held on July 7th at Space Academy, a popular independent live music venue in Ōtautahi. The event kicks off at 4:00 PM with an interactive hui featuring a panel of industry professionals led by facilitator Violet French. Known for her enthusiastic support of Christchurch’s music scene, French brings a wealth of experience as a musician and advocate.

Panelists include Caitlin Tui, also known as Kate Land, a queer nightlife aficionado who draws inspiration from global nightlife scenes. Tui is committed to the transformative power of music for positive social change and works as a Stage Manager and event host for the queer collective Tender Buttons.

Hunter ‘King Cass’ Wilson, a prominent independent hip-hop artist from Ōtautahi, will also be on the panel. Wilson’s mission through his music and the King Cass Movement is to create a safe space for expression and inspire others to speak up about their feelings.

Klow Romana, a rapper and singer from Nelson, will share her journey of using music as a beacon of love, faith, truth, and hope. Romana’s powerful messages stem from her personal struggles with addiction, mental health, and abuse.

Following the hui, an interactive soundcheck session at 6:30 PM will allow attendees to delve into the technical aspects of live production. The evening culminates at 7:30 PM with an all-ages gig featuring performances by King Cass and Klow Romana.

Papaieoa Palmerston North Event
July 10th, The Stomach.
Hui at 4:00 PM, soundcheck at 6:30 PM, and gig at 7:30 PM.
Facebook Event – RSVP here

The Palmerston North event is scheduled for July 10th at The Stomach, a renowned all-ages music hub. Beginning at 4:00 PM, the event features an interactive hui led by Jordan Kupe, a seasoned performer and community advocate. Kupe has a deep-rooted belief in DIY shows and has recently organized Brodfest, a notable local event.

Joining Kupe on the panel is Abi Symes, the kaiwhakahaere of The Stomach. Symes has dedicated their life to nurturing local talent and ensuring that The Stomach remains a supportive environment for artists. Their experience spans from budding musician to passionate leader, managing day-to-day operations at this council-funded venue.

The artist lineup includes Bad Schematics, a band known for their high-energy performances and musical influences from All Time Low, Bring Me The Horizon, My Chemical Romance, Dead Favours, and Paramore. The band consists of Caleb Williams who is also joining us as a panellist (vocals, synths), Caitlin Sorenson (bass), and Daniel Braithwaite (drums).

Nigel Mauchline, a seasoned sound engineer at The Stomach, will oversee the technical aspects of the event. Mauchline’s expertise in recording, producing, mixing, and mastering, combined with his strong background in live sound and education, makes him an invaluable resource for aspiring musicians.

The Stomach, also known as Creative Sounds Society, is a non-profit organisation dedicated to encouraging creative musical, artistic, and performance activities. Accessibility and affordability are key goals, ensuring that everyone can access music, regardless of their ability or circumstances.

For any enquiries, please contact the Gig Starters team at education@nzmusic.org.nz

About Gig Starters
Gig Starters is an initiative by the NZ Music Commission aimed at inspiring and upskilling new gig promoters to organise their own events across Aotearoa. These events provide practical knowledge and hands-on experience in the music industry, fostering a new generation of promoters and creators. Participants can access the Gig Starters booklet, a comprehensive guide for new promoters, available here.

Supported By
These events are made possible with the support of the NZ Music Commission, APRA AMCOS, Space Academy, The Stomach, Creative Sounds Society, and Radio Control.