Hi, I’m Xavier and I play the Alto Saxophone. Recently a few members from the APO came in to tutor us in the concert band for a couple of hours. It was a really unique experience to learn from a professional musician. We each got tips on how we could improve our playing in many different ways. This included our tone and even the way we moved or swayed while performing. Overall it was very rewarding and I learned so much from it. It was a very fun and memorable experience.

-Xavier Stein

The Auckland Philharmonia in Schools programme is a unique and amazing experience that our Concert Band has signed up for this year. It offers a range of opportunities for our students to access, learn and enjoy music as well as engage with top-tier instrumentalists from Tamaki Makaurau in a supportive setting. 

As part of the AKO programme we were able to receive a number of hours of mentoring from APO musicians. On  Sunday 13th July our students were mentored by the following Auckland Philhamonic musicians - Leon Reynolds, Jaeyong Nam, Tomomi Johnston, Jonah Levi, Gaby Pho, Tavite Tonga, Linda Filimoehala, Alex Jeantou and Jenny Raven. The mentors worked alongside each section of the band, offering advice about instrumental techniques, performance and practise tips. Our students were inspired by the musicians' professionalism and passion in sharing their expertise. A great privilege for our Rutherford musos. 

-Mrs Taula