Music students

Earl Ho

“There have been many instances where music moved me significantly, to the point where I thought that if I didn’t do music there would be no worth in living. So studying music seemed like a good idea!

“The great lecturers at the School of Music have so much wisdom to share. I’ve learned that you need to be self motivated and work hard, and strive for excellence. So when you get into the real world you can apply the same stratagems to achieve all your dreams. I plan to make a career out of music, touring the world performing my songs to people who would love to hear them."

Earl Ho is in his third year of a Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Music (BA/BMus) conjoint degree.

Olivia Francis

“I began piano lessons at age four, with my twin sister Gracie. At seven I began studying violin, and ever since then it has been one of the most important things in my life. Having never been apart more than a month in our lives, Gracie
and I wanted to stick together for university, and after visiting The University of Auckland and loving the atmosphere, we knew it was the place to be.

So far, performing in the 2011 Graduation Gala Concerto Competition has been a highlight for me and I am looking forward to many more exciting opportunities as I complete my degree.”

Olivia Francis is in her second year of a Bachelor of Music (BMus), majoring in Classical Performance.

Jimmy Garden

“Studying seemed like the logical step towards becoming a jazz musician. The lecturers have helped my practical skills in composing and playing on my instrument, and have helped me understand how to approach being a musician.

“There is a fantastic music community revolving around the university, which makes it a great place to meet and play with people, so that has been a real highlight. There have also been many great master classes with visiting musicians. The teaching staff are the real reason I chose to study here. The lecturers are all awesome players, but also great people too.”

Jimmy Garden is in his third year of a Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Music (BA/BMus) conjoint degree.

Celeste Oram

“I chose to study in Auckland as a way to get established in the largest cultural centre in New Zealand. I have taken part in a huge variety of exciting projects while at university, through which I have developed wonderful working relationships with my peers. I see this as the starting block for my career.

“My conjoint degree has provided me with an invaluable cross-disciplinary education. I started university knowing that music and the performing arts were what I wanted to be involved in, but my studies have gradually directed me towards finding the areas in which I feel in my element.”

Celeste Oram is in her fourth year of a Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Music (BA/BMus) conjoint degree.

Jason Bae

“I chose to study at The University of Auckland because of Rae de Lisle, a senior lecturer at the School of Music who has been my mentor since I was 9 years old.   I have learnt so much from her, and I believe she improves me endlessly. 
 
Piano, I think, is a lonely instrument.   Pianists don't normally have the opportunity of working with other musicians. However, in the School of Music I take courses which allow me to work with other instruments in a chamber ensemble. Through that experience I have learnt to develop my personal skills and interact with other musicians. I believe this will help me to become a well-rounded person.”

Jason is currently studying for a Bachelor of Music (BMus) degree, majoring in Performance.

 

Emma Penty

"Music has always been a passion of mine, and something I've always wanted to pursue as a career. I chose to enrol in the Bachelor of Music at The University of Auckland not only because of its excellent reputation, but also to take full advantage of the facilities and general education opportunities available.

“The Popular Music major has helped me to improve on my technical and performance skills, while also allowing me to be creative and to do what I love – making music. When I graduate I plan to go on to postgraduate study and at the same time build a career in songwriting and performance."

Emma is currently studying for a Bachelor of Music (BMus), majoring in Popular Music.

Leon Stark-Wang

“I decided to study at The University of Auckland because of the breadth of courses available. The ability to study jazz and pop music while doing a classical major appealed to me.

The chance to compose for baroque organ one week and a surround sound installation the next definitely keeps me on my toes. I've enjoyed the varied nature of my assignments and the fact that my course caters to my interest in musical technology as well. I aim to move into composition/production for film or television when I graduate.”

Leon Stark-Wang is currently studying for a Bachelor of Music (BMus), majoring in Composition.