Beats, brass and big dreams

Bronson Blissett on music and the magic of Southern Jam

In the heart of the local music scene, few young talents shine quite like Bronson Blissett. A familiar face at Marlborough Boys’ College and a familiar rhythm behind the drum kit, Bronson is fast becoming a local musical force. At just 16, he’s already clocked up years of experience across brass bands, musicals, rock gigs, jazz festivals, and now, for the second time, the celebrated Southern Jam Youth Jazz Festival.

“I first got into music when I was about eight,” he says. “My dad was blasting music one day, and he noticed I was tapping perfectly in time. He signed me up for lessons with Aimee Moore, and from there it just took off.” From drum lessons to joining the Marlborough District Brass Band, Bronson’s musical path was set early, and it’s only grown richer since.

Today, Bronson is a multi-instrumentalist, who is also comfortable on saxophone, bass and guitar. He teaches drums at the Marlborough Academy of Music, which he describes as “great fun!” He also plays in several bands, including Funkasaurus Rex and Speedbump. With a steady dedication, Bronson balances schoolwork, gigs and teaching with the enthusiasm of someone who genuinely loves what he does.

His passion finds its full expression at Southern Jam, where students from 15 South Island schools gather for a week of performances, workshops, and high-level mentoring.

“Southern Jam is a journey! You meet new people, learn new music, and grow as a musician. When I first started, I didn’t have much confidence. But because of the strong improvisation element, I now feel comfortable playing by ear and performing live.”

Southern Jam Youth Jazz Festival
August 6 – 9, 2025
Free public performances across Marlborough
Finale Gala Concert at ASB Theatre – tickets via Eventfinda.co.nz