Waikato ITM Orchestra and Bands Festival 2025
The Waikato ITM Orchestra and Bands Festival lit up the Gallagher Performing Arts Centre at Waikato University once again, bringing together some of the finest young musicians from across the Waikato and Bay of Plenty. This annual celebration of school age musical talent and teamwork was a resounding success, and our four music groups truly left their mark.
Petra Musica (Symphony Orchestra) dazzled with a Gold Award and a Special Recommendation from the Adjudicator. Their performance of “Smile” moved hearts, and a spontaneous “Happy Birthday” for cello section leader Jonas, joined by the entire audience, was a joyful highlight for many and will go down as one of the more special moments in the history of the festival.
Impact (Percussion Ensemble) earned a Gold Award for their technically demanding and stylistically diverse programme, which spanned epic classical pieces to modern film scores. Their precision and energy were unmatched.
Jazz Band celebrated a well-earned Silver Award, marking a leap forward from last year’s Bronze. With a richer sound thanks to an expanded sax and brass section, their bold and dynamic set had toes tippity-tapping throughout the hall.
Viva Stringendo (String Orchestra) also took home a Silver Award, impressing with a beautifully curated programme that ranged from Offenbach and Grieg to Hisaishi and New Zealand’s own Six60.
A heartfelt thank you to our inspiring directors:
Miss Mary Lin – Petra Musica
Mr Michael Schroeder – Impact
Mr Jason Wilcox & Mr Bill Stoneham – Jazz Band
Mr Tony Wu – Viva Stringendo
We’re also grateful to Chris Nation and the dedicated team of itinerant and music teachers who make this unforgettable experience possible.
Congratulations above all to all our talented musicians. You continue to make us proud with your passion, creativity, and dedication.