Over the past two years the Nayland Music Trust has steadily grown to over 100 students now learning orchestral instruments in the Stoke/Tahunanui region.

The Nayland Music Trust was launched by Nayland College Principal, Daniel Wilson, and Trust Director, Nigel Weeks, at the beginning of 2016, with financial support from a local benefactor.  The aim of the trust is to encourage students to learn orchestral instruments through affordable and accessible tuition in schools within the Stoke Community of Learning cluster of schools.

The Nelson City Brass Band works in partnership with the Nayland Music Trust, offering access to brass instruments and extending brass and percussion students through the junior band programme and access to additional tutors and workshops.

On Friday 1 December primary and intermediate students from seven different school participated in the end of year Nayland Music Trust Showcase Concert.  This was the first time all students have come together to perform as a whole orchestra – performing three short pieces together alongside many small ensemble and solo performances.  

The Nayland Music Trust will continue to expand in 2018, with another school joining the programme.  Wind and string ensembles will also be launched, rehearsing on Monday evenings at Nayland College.

By Daniel Wilson