Music Month provides a stage for Rotorua musicians of all genres

The Thermaleles take the stage at one of the Rotorua New Zealand Music Month concerts. Photo / Stephen Parker

Local musicians from all genres have been given a platform to perform on as Rotorua marks New Zealand Music Month.

Indie-pop band False Heights was one of those who used the month to get their music out there.

The duo performed todayat one of four concerts held at the Princes Gate Hotel.

Keyboardist April Nisbet said this was the third year they had performed.

"We do it every year. Karin [the organiser] created a platform for False Heights. We weren't a band until she put a post on Facebook asking for artists to perform. We played and that's how we were made so we do try and support her," Nisbet said.

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"You can be at any stage of your ability and be given the chance to play in front of people. There's no limits."

Drummer and guitarist Ashley Pirie said it was important to have a platform for artists to perform.

"New Zealand Music Month is an exciting month in general because you hear New Zealand music on the radio," he said.

"It's been going a long time and Kiwis do hold on to it. We're getting more traction because it's New Zealand Music Month."

The New Zealand Music Month Expo was also held for the first time this weekend as part of the city's focus to showcase up-and-coming local talent.

It featured information booths from the Rotorua Music School, Rotorua Jazz Club, Toi Ohomai music department, The Rockshop and The Rogue Stage.

Organiser Karin Vincent said it was a valuable day for those who attended.

"It was a central area or hub where people that were interested in music could come down and grab that information," Vincent said.

"There was a really good selection of all-rounded views."

Local band False Heights performed at Princes Gate Hotel during New Zealand Music Month. Photo / Supplied

Ukulele band The Thermaleles also performed at the concert.

Member Julie Parsons said it was a chance to play to a different audience and for local artists to perform.

"All our music is our own so we like celebrating New Zealand music and this is all about that."

Vincent said the expo was for people "aspiring to learn more and become more" and the concerts had showcased the original music of local artists.

"Every night has had a great impact on the audience."

There is another concert on Fridayfrom 6pm to 9.30pm at the Monarch Room at Princes Gate Hotel.

For a full list of entertainers performing at each concert go to: www.facebook/RotoruaNZMusicMonth