Join us for a Free Musical adventure this NZ Music Month
We're bringing the joy of New Zealand piano music to five venues across Auckland, and we want you to be part of it!
Welcome Message from Lee Martelli
Five FREE concert locations featuring lively tunes by Christopher Norton
A chance for young Auckland composers to showcase their talent. The new original winning piano pieces will be played by Lee Martelli-Wood during the concert
Interactive percussion finale - bring your rhythm!
New Zealand Music Month
Join Us in Celebrating Vibrant Sounds of Aotearoa
This annual event showcases the incredible talent and diversity of Kiwi musicians across the country. From free concerts featuring local artists to special radio and TV programming highlighting NZ music, there's a wealth of activities to enjoy. Live performances at venues nationwide, music workshops, educational events, and album releases will keep music lovers entertained throughout the month.
New Zealand Music Month offers a brilliant opportunity to discover exciting new Kiwi artists and support local musicians and the NZ music industry. It's a chance to experience the rich musical heritage of Aotearoa and enjoy a wide range of genres from rock to hip-hop to classical. Whether you're a long-time fan of NZ music or new to the scene, there's something for everyone.
Getting involved is easy and rewarding. Attend a live show in your area, stream NZ artists on your favourite platforms, or purchase music and merchandise from local musicians. Share your favourite Kiwi tunes on social media with #NZMusicMonth to spread the word. Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the sounds of New Zealand and be part of the celebration that amplifies the voice of our homegrown talent.
Rock Preludes
Books 1 & 2
by Christopher Norton
Latin Preludes
Books 1 & 2
by Christopher Norton
Original Preludes
World premieres of original preludes by Auckland composers under 30
Early Access
Doors open 30 minutes before showtime. Arrive early to soak in the atmosphere
Accessibility
If you have any accessibility requirements or need reserved seating, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Email us at nspiano@gmail.com with your specific needs, and we'll do our best to accommodate you and reserve appropriate seating.
No Ticket Required
All concerts are absolutely FREE. Bring your friends and family!
Be Part of the Performance
Grab a percussion instrument and join in for the thrilling finale of each concert!
Featured Artists
Cristopher Norton
New Zealand-born composer Christopher Norton is the creative force behind the globally successful Microjazz series. With over a million copies sold, his music combines classical techniques with popular styles, delighting players and audiences worldwide.
Lee Martelli-Wood
Lee is an accomplished pianist with a passion for New Zealand music. With a Master of Music degree and extensive performance experience, Lee brings energy and expertise to every concert.
Calling all young Auckland Composers under 30!
Submission Details
Deadline: April 1, 2025
Piece length: Less than three minutes
Selection: Five pieces will be chosen for performance
Selection Process
Judges: Pianist Lee Martelli-Wood and composer Christopher Norton
Prize: $250 for each of the five selected pieces
Rights
Composers retain ownership of their compositions.
Lee Martelli-Wood has perpetual performance rights for selected pieces.
COMPOSE
Young Auckland Composers under the age of 30 are invited to write an original piano piece for the Play Our Preludes NZ Music concerts.
Musical Style Guidelines
Inspired by Christopher Norton's Microjazz, compositions should aim to be:
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Fun and dynamic
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Utilising the full range of piano notes
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Featuring a cantabile style with singable melodies
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Incorporating infectious and energetic rhythms
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Introducing and elaborating on one main idea
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Drawing from popular styles (Latin, jazz, rock, country, blues, flamenco, etc.)
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Suitable for Grade 6-7 piano player level (maximum)
Lee Martelli-Wood particularly enjoys performing music that strongly communicates with audiences and demonstrates innovative concepts.
Support for Composers
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Online Q&A session on 5 March 2025 at 1pm
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Opportunity to hear piece played by Lee for feedback
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20-minute individual feedback sessions (bookings open in February 2025)
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Facebook Live session on writing for piano
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PowerPoint summary to be posted in March 2025
For all enquiries, please contact: nspiano@gmail.com
Don't Miss Out!
Experience the vibrant world of New Zealand piano music. From Christopher Norton's lively Microjazz to emerging local talent, there's something for everyone. Come be part of this unique celebration of New Zealand's musical creativity!