Music is a dynamic part of life at Tauranga Boys' College, with opportunities ranging from jazz and chamber ensembles to rock bands, choir, and more. Students regularly excel in regional and national competitions, showcasing both their passion and the vibrant culture of music within the school.
CHAMBER MUSIC
Our school has a strong chamber music programme, featuring saxophone, brass, guitar ensembles, and piano trios. These groups rehearse regularly, developing both technical skill and ensemble cohesion. Each year, our musicians compete in the NZ Chamber Music Competition, often earning awards and commendations. This prestigious event challenges them to perform at their best and connect with the wider New Zealand music community.
Stay tuned for performance dates and achievements through our digital platforms—Instagram and Facebook. Follow along and support our journey in the arts! #TBCArts
ITINERANT MUSIC LESSONS
Students can take instrumental music lessons during the school day. Tuition is available for: Piano, Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone, Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Vocals, Guitar, Bass Guitar, and Drums. Lessons are held in small groups, with a rotating timetable to ensure students don’t miss the same class each week.
To register, email your name, class, instrument, and experience to [email protected]. Registrations are taken at the start of the year. Late registrations go on a waiting list, updated at the end of each term.
JAZZ
Tauranga Boys’ College has a proud tradition of jazz excellence, with our Big Band and Jazz Combos consistently achieving national success. The Big Band is a flagship ensemble, performing everything from classic swing to jazz fusion and regularly earning awards at the National Youth Jazz Competition in Tauranga for both group and individual performance. Jazz Combos provide students with valuable experience in small-group improvisation, also gaining national recognition. Our musicians are frequently awarded for improvisation, solo work, and section playing, with many earning scholarships and tertiary placements. The TBC Jazz Programme continues to nurture New Zealand’s next generation of jazz talent.
ROCK BANDS
Tauranga Boys’ College has a vibrant band scene, with groups writing and performing original music, competing in RockQuest, and showcasing their work throughout the year. We’re proud to support student creativity with a full recording studio, where bands can record and release their music—some even debuting on Spotify! Beginner bands are encouraged to join our supervised rehearsal sessions every Wednesday after school. Additional rehearsal and recording times are also available and can be booked through the Music Department.
VOCAL & CHORAL
As part of the TBC Choral Programme, students have the exciting opportunity to take vocal lessons and participate in vocal groups, school productions, and bands. The vocal group performs regularly and competes in the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Big Sing Regional Competition held annually in Tauranga. The Big Sing is New Zealand’s largest choral event, involving over 200 schools nationwide. Our programme celebrates the joy of singing, encouraging students to perform with confidence and strive for excellence. The repertoire includes a wide range of choral works, including music by New Zealand composers.
To register interest, email Lynda Cooney [email protected].
