Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra 2009 Young Achievers' Recital

May I begin by greeting everyone in the languages of the realm of New Zealand, in English, Māori, Cook Island Māori, Niuean, Tokelauan and New Zealand Sign Language.

Greetings, Kia Ora, Kia Orana, Fakalofa Lahi Atu, Taloha Ni – and as it is afternoon (sign).

May I then specifically greet you:  Honorable Dame Catherine Tizard, and James Wallace, Patrons of the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra; Roseanne Meo, APO Board Chairperson; Barbara Glaser, Chief Executive of the APO; Young Achievers and your Mentors; Distinguished Guests otherwise; Ladies and Gentlemen and Performers.

It is with great pleasure that my wife Susan and I welcome you to Government House Auckland, to the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra Young Achievers recital and thereafter to relax in the ambience of these fine surroundings and garden with a glass of beverage of the kind you may be permitted.

This Government House in Auckland has a long established relationship with the APO, and Susan and I have been delighted to have been able to attend enjoyable events held here by the Orchestra in the past and in this role to host them.

I would like to commend the APO for what it does for the city’s artistic life, and especially for its support of young Aucklander musicians.

The Orchestra is responsible for a number of scholarships, competitions, summer schools and other programmes which encourage young people to become involved in music, and develop their talents.

The Young Achievers we will hear from today represent some of the best young talents in music and include recent winners of scholarships, and local or national competitions.

It is fair to say success does not happen of its own accord.  The APO is dedicated to supporting young talent primarily because, like anyone involved in the arts, it has the belief that music and support for artists enrich individuals and the community beyond.

All sorts of things stand behind this – for example study of music is academic. It teaches discipline, perseverance, dependability, composure, courage, pride in results and even social history.  That can be no bad preparation for life in general, or for the workforce for that matter.

Music is physical. Learning to sing or play an instrument, and keep rhythm develops coordination, while the power necessary to blow a flute, trumpet or saxophone, for example, promotes a healthy body.

Music is social. Performance enhances self esteem, and increases social skills.  Being able to play an instrument is an entrée to a community of like minds in any part of the world, with the side benefit of (generally) being welcome at a party.

Music is for life.  Whilst people cannot play hockey, football or netball into their 8th or 9th decades, they can still appreciate music, sing, or play an instrument.  Often even in their advanced years, musicians are still continuing to deepen their understanding of their craft.

Like all art, music speaks across cultures, without the need for language.

It can move us profoundly, influence our behaviour and connect us with others.  It is also fun.
An area the APO is keen to promote, is that music can also be a viable career option.
Today, graduates in music are to be found in a range of vocations – film, television and radio production, teaching, librarianship, and administrative roles in cultural organisations are all examples.

Additionally, people today are listening to more music than ever.  Music is now available in ways previously unimaginable making the wait for a concert season to arrive or a cd to be available unnecessary.

Thanks to digital technology, music can be accessed through the internet, downloaded onto music players, and even on to a mobile phone.

Music is international, cross-cultural as well as being of personal value.  The composer and conductor Leonard Bernstein once remarked:

“Music can name the unnameable, and communicate the unknowable.”

I am glad to say our country values and recognises the contribution that musicians make to our country.

Just a few weeks ago, for just one example, several musicians were recognised in this year’s Queen’s Birthday honours, among them the Aucklanders Che Fu, now a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit, and Carl Doy, who was made an Officer of the Order of Merit.

The Young Achievers from whom we will hear today may well follow in their footsteps.  Susan and I join you all in anticipating what we are about to enjoy.

I want to close in our country’s first language, Maōri, offering everyone greetings and wishing you all good health and fortitude in your endeavours. 

No reira, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, kia ora, kia kaha, tēnā koutou katoa.