RockQuest local revival achieved
Marlborough Girls’ College music students can’t wait for the first Smokefree RockQuest in Marlborough since 2008. From left, Sheena McManaway, Maggie George-Harris, Constance Coldwell, Abi Adams, Persia Edmonds, Brialey Foster, Artesia Collins, Lexie Yockney, Jess Curzon, Chardae Pirere-Nicholls, Mahalia Parata-Jenkins, Māreikura Nepia, Kanon Tsuchiya, Ava Peterson, Sydney White, Grace Straker, Lucy Heath and Margot Taylor. Photo: William Woodworth
Marlborough student musicians dreamt of bringing a renowned national competition back to the region – and now they’ve done it.
The 2024 Smokefree RockQuest, on June 14 at Blenheim’s ASB Theatre, will be the region’s first since 2008.
The move comes after a bid led by band The Watchamacallits to get the competition back in Blenheim.
Now each entry, ranging from solo artists to five member bands, are busy during music lessons and in their spare time writing and composing songs.
“The fact the community has high expectations for the return of RockQuest and are paying to watch us perform and compete is really motivating us”, says Dart Complex’s Finn Brown.
While the musicians are at different stages of their songwriting process, everyone can feel the anticipation building, agrees No Clue's Grace Straker.
“The whole Year 13 cohort is really keen to come along, and our friends and families are almost more excited than us musicians for Rock Quest,” she says.
“We’re a little anxious, but we’re all very excited to be a part of RockQuest and bring it back to Marlborough”, echoes The Climb’s Ava Petersen
Marlborough Girls’ College Head of Music Christianna Morgan says giving students the opportunity to perform locally is key, and she’s been impressed by the students’ drive.
“Our local music curriculums have been focused mainly on brass or choral music, so extending that into any genre is amazing and seeing students pick up new instruments is always a goal.
“We’re all hopeful that this won’t be a one-off, but part of an ongoing revival, so having community support behind our young musicians will do just that”.
Smokefree RockQuest Marlborough takes at the ASB Theatre, Blenheim. Get your tickets at https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2024/smokefree-rockquest-tangata-beats-marlborough-final/blenheim