Sound approach for talented musos

Music lovers will have an opportunity to study a certificate in music for the first time at Waiariki Institute of Technology.

The Certificate in Contemporary Music Performance will be the first of its kind at the institute, offering students a "foot up" in the music industry.

For the past two years Waiariki has had a strong Academy of Singing and Music, but had no music-specific qualification.

Rotorua musician and Waiariki Academy of Singing and Music manager Richard Anaru will head the certificate programme.

"This is just what we wanted to do," Mr Anaru said.

Gaining a qualification gave music-minded students a foot up in the industry, he said.

The programme runs across 34 weeks and students will learn how to make a record, gain performance skills, write a song, learn music theory and instrument study.

"It's targeted at students who want to further their musical knowledge and grounding to continue in the industry," he said.

"As part of their assessments the students will put on a concert every four weeks, using the genres they have studied."

Waiariki Institute of Technology has been approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority to deliver the certificate during 2013.

The qualification is being launched with an articulation agreement, or partnership, with Tai Poutini Polytechnic.

There are 15 spots open for the 2013 certificate, with about half already filled.

For inquires about this programme, please contact richard.anaru@waiariki.ac.nz