bandstanding: music in the west with susannah bridges
Zyia-Li Teh and the BayLynn Youth Band As a youngster Zyia-Li Teh found practising Big Band, Auckland Youth Orchestra and Auckland the piano a chore so when high school Wind Orchestra – Zyia-Li also played in a couple of gave her the opportunity to branch out, covers bands and did the odd musical before heading she thought she’d give the saxophone a try. off overseas for adventures in Europe and teaching She was soon obsessed and there followed in London. “Since arriving back in New Zealand at a progression to viola, trumpet, clarinet the end of 2018, I have found myself in more music and drums. Some days at school were directing and ensemble conducting roles than I did spent mostly in the music department. before I left. Last year, I was the musical director “I did all sorts of lessons and rehearsals. I for St Peter’s College’s production of Jesus Christ still play the clarinet and saxophone today. Superstar, and this year, if all goes to plan, I’ll be Plus the skills I picked up on the other musical director for their production of Chess.” instruments have become very handy and Zyia-Li has had little time for original writing or vital to my career as a music teacher.” composition since going into teaching full-time and It helped that Zyia-Li’s teacher was Bernie has enough on her plate transcribing and arranging Allen (QSM), a leading figure in Auckland’s for school ensembles, including one that she started 1950s and 60s jazz and rock’n’roll scene, – the BayLynn Youth Band. musical director for TV shows C’mon and “The band started when I was the music specialist Happen Inn and composer of countless at Blockhouse Bay Intermediate. Bernie Allen [see film and TV scores, including the iconic above] is a constant sounding board for many of my Goodnight Kiwi theme. Bernie also knew crazy ideas and in my third or fourth year of teaching, that a creative life is not always lucrative, Zyia-Li Teh: ‘the band has been my baby’. I approached him with my concerns over the number and advised young Zyia-Li of this as she embarked on her post high of ex-students who had decided to stop playing their instruments school journey. when they moved to secondary school. We agreed that there weren't “I started my first teaching job with the KBB Music Programme, many opportunities for students to play and perform in ensembles teaching brass and woodwind instruments at various primary schools and that there is the added pressure of most school ensembles being in Auckland, then branching out to teaching privately and at other competitive with not all students able to participate or given the after-school programmes.” After obtaining a degree in music, a diploma opportunity to do so. The transition from intermediate school to high in education followed leading to a job at Blockhouse Bay Intermediate. school can also be a challenge for many students. Many would have “With the support of my colleagues I found my passion and ‘mojo’ for missed the sign up notice, or sometimes they’re too shy and lack the teaching and music education.” confidence to participate in the high school ensembles.” A past member of numerous ensembles in Auckland – The Queen City The BayLynn Youth Band was set up to solve some of these problems. “When we started, the majority of the band members were either current or ex-Blockhouse Bay Intermediate students. It was already a comfortable and known environment for them and I was able to encourage and support them where needed.” With an open door policy that allows ex-band members to rejoin the ensemble at any time, the band has become more of a family than a band. “We have a unique and indescribable way of supporting each other and everyone’s always welcoming and helpful towards our new members.” The current BLYB is made up of students from a much wider spread than Blockhouse Bay and the age range is from nine years up to university students. The band is generally managed by a committee of committed parents, chaired by Glen Eden local Lucy Perin, meaning that Zyia-Li can focus on the music, rehearsals and performances. With the support of other top professionals like Merv Thomas and Bruce King, the BLYB rehearses every Wednesday evening during the It’s great to be back school term. They would usually have at least one performance a term and we want to say at a local retirement village or organise a concert for family, friends and “Thank you” with a the community. special celebration With the Covid-19 lockdown and rehearsals and performances on facial just for our hold, Zyia-Li had to find ways to keep the band engaged, make music and connect, resulting in a successful video montage of all the band local customers. members playing the same piece individually at home, and a series of Boost your skin workshops focusing on music theory and improvisation skills. “Running seven sessions each week has been quite a project. The band is and with The Citrus has been my baby for years and the members are like my family. Being Vitamin Facial around them brightens my day and brings a smile to my heart. “We are always open to new members, so if you or your child would 45 minutes like to know more or become part of the band, please get in touch via for just $89 email: baylynnyouthband@gmail.com. We’d also love to hear about Valid until June 30 possible performance opportunities.” You can follow the BayLynn Youth Band and check for upcoming performances on their website, www.baylynnyouthband.org.nz, and on Ph : 0 9 8 1 7 - 9 9 3 7 www.t on icspa .co.nz Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/BayLynnYouthBand/.
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The Fringe JUNE 2020
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