Kiwi music's up-and-comers set to soar

Kiwi music's up-and-comers set to soar

IGNITE Class of 2016

Eight Auckland teenagers have just graduated from the IGNITE programme – a project aimed at giving young New Zealanders hands-on experience in the music business.

Made possible with support from the Ministry of Youth Development, MAINZ and NZ Music Commission, IGNITE launched in March 2016 and paired the participants, aged 15 to 18, with mentors. All of the mentors have extensive experience in the music industry, both locally and abroad.

The participants designed and delivered a wide range of projects during the 15-week programme, from fundraising events to fan meet-ups and all-ages concerts.

Last night, at an event held at MAINZ in Auckland, each of the graduating participants gave a presentation on the outcomes of their projects and spoke about what they’d learnt throughout the programme.

Eighteen-year-old Hunter Keane was awarded the IGNITE Scholarship to study a Diploma in Music and Event Management at MAINZ in 2017. The Western Springs College student was supported by his mentor Anthony Metcalf and ran a concert featuring the band The Leers to mark the release of their debut album, ARE YOU CURIOUS.

The Director of MAINZ, Harry Lyon, with scholarship recipient Hunter Keane and IGNITE founder Savina Kim

“Hunter stood out from the application process as someone who was very passionate about music and he took up all the opportunities that IGNITE had to offer,” says programme founder Savina Kim.

“What impressed me the most was his sheer drive and independence in organising his event. He put so much thought into everything. He carefully researched and asked for opinions from trusted people and used this to make up his own mind. I am really looking forward to seeing what the future has in store for Hunter!”

The 2016 IGNITE graduates have been offered some fantastic further opportunities including volunteering at large-scale events, internships and work placements.

IGNITE will return next year with a new intake of 10 young passionate people, aged 15-18, for the programme commencing March 2017. For further information and to stay up to date, visit www.igniteprogramm.org.nz

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