City hopes to show its talent at Smokefree Rockquest

Western Heights High School band Lyric3 had the audience cheering at the end of their performance. Photo/Ben Fraser

The Smokefree Rockquest regional heats at the Rotorua Convention Centre saw more than 20 acts belt it out for a spot in the next round.

Each act played an original song yesterday, showcasing a variety of music styles and songwriting ability.

Event co-ordinator Matt Ealand said he hoped a national finalist was found at yesterday's event. "For the last 10 years at least one of the national finalists have been from Rotorua and it would be great to see that continue."

Mr Ealand said he got involved with Smokefree Rockquest because he thought the development of young artists was important in New Zealand.

Western Heights High School band Lyric3 are performing in both Smokefree Rockquest and Smokefree Pacifica Beats and said it was a good learning curve.

The trio were on stage for about five minutes and performed an original song with Pacific flair.

"We were actually only going to compete in the Smokefree Pacifica Beats but then decided to do Rockquest as well for the extra experience, guitarist Arianna Cudby said."

"The biggest thing for me is it gives me the confidence to perform," she said

Mr Ealand said he was impressed with the level of talent on display. "I wouldn't want to be a judge this year. Its awesome to see the creativity and passion that shows when contestants are on stage."

The regional events run until July 4, then the top regional bands and solo/duos submit video footage for selection as one of six bands and three solo/duos to play at the national final at Aucklands Q Theatre on September 27.