With a shining reputation as one of New Zealand’s lifestyle capital, Tauranga is one of the fastest-growing cities with many interesting and enticing music festivals held annually. Visited by many, these festivals are well-received and promise a good amount of fun. A good holiday should be spent experiencing the city instead of losing your way, checking the maps with limited data and getting frustrated on missing a turn to your destination. Consider minibus hire in Tauranga to get you to where you need to be – efficiently and safely.
The activities in Tauranga is endless, the music festivals cater to music avid of all ages and genres. Here we put together a list of music festivals that is happening in Tauranga 2019. Take your pick and pamper yourself with a day in music.
Sumo Jazz In Concert
Spice your Friday up with a range of eclectic jazz music ranging from all out fusion to acoustic straight-ahead with the Sumo Jazz team. If that is not exciting enough, stay tune to the second half of the session as Dr Rodger Fox, Dr Dave Wilson and Dixon Nacey, the Judges from National Youth Jazz Competition, who will join in the concert blasting on their trombone, saxophone and guitar respectively. Be prepared to be blown away as these masters of music raise the roof in Baycourt Addison Theatre!
Nashville Live
Are you ready to be taken back through the history of country music featuring songs from Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash to Garth Brooks and Carrie. For the first time in New Zealand, an international cast of some hottest country musicians, is set to transport country music fans right into the heart of downtown Nashville. A Grand Old Opry will be used to reveal the hidden histories of country music and audiences can dance and sing to a mixture of classic solos, fantasy group harmonies and stellar duets.
57th National Jazz Festival
From 18 to 21 April 2019, the 57th National Jazz Festival has in store a wonderful programme of events showcasing performances from some of the best jazz musicians from around the world. Fill your Easter weekend with all-you-can-take jazz songs:
- Secret Island Sextet
Secret Island Sextet is the latest eclectic ensember by Jim Langabeer, a New Zealand Jazz innovator. His compositions are a series of original jazz pieces that assimilate how the North American jazz form into an authentic Kiwi context.
- Jazz In The Lobby
A grand piano sitting in the hotel lobby, behind sits a pianist who will be entertaining you with his jazz selections as you sip your coffee and while the afternoon away. Perfect way to spend your afternoon after a long week of work.
- Jazz In The Clipper Lounge
A surprise entertainer list, find out which of your favourite jazz musician will turn up at the Clipper Lounge with the evening jazz, relieving the London Bar vibe.
- Charlie Parker With Strings
Presenting the melodic yet romantic side of this Bebop giant, Dick Oatts from New York and The New Zealand String Quartet pays tribute to legendary saxophonist, Charlie Parker, and his most memorable works. A night where jazz meets classical music.
- Queen City Big Band
Lead by Musical Director John Callesen, the Queen City Big Band will feature vocalists Andrew Curtis and Helen Clague-Healey who will fill your evening with the greatest rendition of classic standards both old and new and some surprises. Sit back to enjoy a toe-tapping performance!
- Duelling Pianos
A crowd favourite, Duelling Pianos is the musical equivalent of the gunfight at the OK Corral. This high energy performance by jazz piano gunslingers, Ben Wilcock and Dayle Jellyman, harnesses the electricity of early jazz clubs. Hang on to your seats for a thrilling performance as the jazz piano gunslingers meets John Rae on Drums.
- Bella Kalolo
Be charmed as Bella and her amazing band, the Atmos, delves into songs by Queen of Soul – Aretha Franklin. It will be an evening of Aretha classics!
- Hurricane Party
Have you heard of the 40’s swing version of Someone Like You by Adele? Don’t miss out on the 8-piece Auckland band, Big Ticket, playing popular songs with a vintage twist which is great for swing dancing or just a good old boogie! Swing into Soul with the Hurricane Party!
- Kim Paterson Quintet
A living musical legend since the 60s, Kim Paterson played ground-breaking jazz music with Bernie McGann. Sit back, and be awed by Kim Paterson and his quintet as they present Kim’s originals, each with a story bringing the music to life.
- Antipodes: Good Winter
Playing original compositions with an emphasis on melody and emotive soundscapes, Antipodes is a project combining New Zealand and Australian jazz musicians. Their music is drawn from diverse influences – European free improvisation and the common ground between modern New York jazz and Swedish indie pop. Expect to hear titles from their recently-released album – Good Winter!
Allana Goldsmith – Tribute To Ella Fitzgerald And Sarah Vaugha
Another proud New Zealand bred talent, Allana Goldsmith was featured at many of the major music festivals around the country including Waiheke International Festival in 2017. Own the night with Allana and her band as they channel the spirit of Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaugha in a tribute of the two greatest jazz divas.
Bad Moon Rising – Creedence Clearwater Revival Tribute Show
Be spellbound as you listen to this hugely popular act covering the top hits of this timeless and ever popular band with songs including Man on the Moon and Watergate! Celebrating the music of Creedence Clearwater Revival, be pumped as they bring the hits to you.
Are you spoilt for choice on which of the festivals to attend? Gather your friends, mark your dates and do not forget to book minibus hire in Tauranga to send and pick you from your music festival safely and swiftly! Let your hair down and go for a night of fun that you deserve!