A celebration of jazz and creating new connections through music

After sadly missing on their first concert for the year due to torrential rain and the cancellation of the afternoon events for Children’s Day, it was terrific to bring the new Chissy Jazz Band for 2026 together for their first concert, alongside the 2025 alumni (now Year 9s) for a combined performance. This event also signified the beginning of building a stronger connection with Shirley Boys’ High School which many of our ākonga continue their learning journey with by joining with their Junior Jazz Band for this event.

The performance was a great chance for the new students (some of which had only started learning their instruments this term!) to gain confidence, showcase their hard work to date, and for parents and whānau of the jazz band students to connect. Having the alumni students also provided wonderful support and leadership for our new members as they took part in their first gig for the year. It was also a lovely opportunity for our alumni students to perform together one final time. It was fantastic to hear many of our alumni playing in the Shirley Boys High School Junior Jazz Band and how their playing had continued to develop this term. The hour long concert featured performances by the CIS Alumni “Reunion” Jazz Band and combo, CIS 2026 Jazz Band, SBHS Junior Jazz Band, and a massed item with all 4 bands together at once!

Thank you to all the parents, whānau, and kaiako who came along to support this event. We look forward to sharing more music with everyone throughout the year.

By Emma Jarman