WorldStrides' Rhapsody Rotorua concerts to showcase talent

Combining rhythm and harmony with culture and education, the WorldStrides' Rhapsody Rotorua has hit the right note for students.

And locals are able to see the talent on display with public concerts being held tonight and tomorrow night, from 7pm to 10pm, at the Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre.

The week-long music festival brings together young musicians from Australia and New Zealand in Rotorua.

Students from Western Heights High school were having a blast at the event.

Flute player Kymbali Dender, 16, said it was her fourth WorldStrides Rhapsody Rotorua.

"It's good to play with other people and listen to them."

Year 13 student Shayla Dixon, 17, had been to the event every year she had been at high school.

"I'm in the choir, [Rhapsody] is great for learning."

Artistic director Grant Burns said the event had taken place at the Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre since 2000.

"The facilities and people have proved efficient and remained consistent ... we have around 500 kids each year and we are well-supported by the locals."

Mr Burns said seven schools had come over from Australia, and seven from around New Zealand.

Members of the Western Heights High School jazz band perform at WorldStrides Rhapsody Rotorua. Photo/Ben Fraser

"There are also individual students from other schools. This is why it's great - we combine students in group performances."

In a statement, Karene Philips, festival manager, said the students were immersed in a unique learning experience, with adjudication from top musicians helping them develop their skills.

"Uniting students from different countries and cultures to share their passion for music creates a truly remarkable experience."

Paul Hines, a guitar teacher from Melville Senior High School in Perth, said it had been a fantastic experience.

"The music has been great and it's been exciting for the 33 students. We've been to Agrodome and around Rotorua."

He said the group was made up of Year 9 to Year 12 students between the ages of 14 and 17.

"It's the first overseas trip [for the students], we have a concert band, a guitar ensemble, choir and a swing band. Everyone is having a great time."

Western Heights High School music teacher Ryan McIntyre was watching the school's jazz band performing in the Banquet Room.

He said the group was made up of students from Years 10 to 13.

"It's been awesome ... this is the first time [the students] would have played solo in front of people."

Head of music at Western Heights High School, Adam Hague, said Melville Senior High School students had come to their school earlier in the week and had performed.

"It was great for the students, they mingled and made friends."

Destination Rotorua international trade manager Patrick Dault said hosting the event was a great opportunity for Rotorua.

"Not only does it support the bridging of cultures through music but it gives young people the opportunity to have fun in one of New Zealand's most beloved destinations."

Tickets for the free showcases are available from ticketmaster.co.nz or at the Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre.