Manukau Youth Orchestra

Welcome to the Manukau Youth Orchestra, located at 57 Grande Vue Road, Auckland, New Zealand. Established in 1974, our institution is dedicated to providing affordable music tuition for young people in the Manurewa area. As a point of interest, we offer a range of bands and orchestras that cater to various age groups and musical interests.

Our senior orchestra, comprised of talented individuals aged 8 to 18 years, holds their practices every Tuesday from 6:30pm to 8pm at Hillpark Primary School in Manurewa. To expand their repertoire and enhance their skills, a three-day camp is organized annually. The senior orchestra showcases their talent through three major concerts each year, as well as one or two informal garden concerts.

In addition to the senior orchestra, we established the Manurewa Mariachi Project in December 2017. This exciting endeavor takes place during the summer months each year, offering a unique musical experience for our members.

For those inclined towards jazz and contemporary music, our stage band or jazz band is the perfect fit. Formed in 2016, this band consists of 5 saxes, 4 trumpets, 4 trombones, and a rhythm section. Rehearsals are held every Monday from 6:30pm to 9pm at Waimahia Intermediate, allowing our musicians to develop their skills in a supportive environment.

As an institution committed to music education, we run teaching programs at three schools in Manurewa. Each school has space for 40 students to learn band and orchestral instruments. At Manurewa Central School and Hillpark Primary School, we offer two string orchestra programs, teaching violin, viola, cello, and double bass. At Manurewa Intermediate School, our band program focuses on flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, and trombone.

Students enrolled in our programs receive half-hour group lessons during school time, and they actively participate in their school's band or orchestra. We provide them with music sheets and instruments to facilitate their learning process. While students may occasionally miss academic classes for their lessons, it is important to note the numerous benefits of learning a musical instrument. To support beginner students, we have created "How to Play Violin and Cello" pages, as well as music reading games, all available as free internet resources.

At the Manukau Youth Orchestra, we strive to foster a love for music, provide quality education, and create a supportive community for young musicians. Join us today and embark on a musical journey that will last a lifetime.