Celebrating the sweet sounds of a nation.
Every May, New Zealanders around the world come together to celebrate the vibrant music scene that pulses through Aotearoa New Zealand. From indie rock to hip hop, our traditional waiata Māori (Māori songs) to contemporary pop, New Zealand Music Month is all about celebrating New Zealand’s music and the artists who create it – both at home and across the globe.
What is New Zealand Music Month?
Established over two decades ago, New Zealand Music Month started as a campaign to encourage radio stations to play more local music. It has now turned into a significant celebration of homegrown talent.
This year’s theme, AMPLIFYING AOTEAROA | PAOROTIA AOTEAROA, is all about shining a light on those who are the heartbeat of our nation’s music scene. Throughout May, the spotlight is on both emerging local talent and artists who’ve achieved international success.
New Zealand Music Commission Chief Executive Cath Andersen says it’s incredible how far things have come.
“Now in its 24th year, during the month there will be over 1,000 events, shows and promotions right around the country, across every genre imaginable. Alongside our established local stars, for newer or emerging artists it’s a great chance to raise their profile and grow their audiences – hopefully as a stepping stone to one day being on the world stage,” she says.
Supporting New Zealand Music on the World Stage
New Zealand Music Month isn’t just about celebrating local music at home; it’s also about supporting artists as they venture into international markets.
Outward Sound is a programme that invests in the international careers of local artists and helps music businesses take music from New Zealand to the world.
New Zealand Music Commission International Manager Alan Holt says the programme has supported an amazing and diverse array of talented artists since its inception in 2006.
“Artists including The Beths, Drax Project, Six60, Marlon Willaims, Alien Weaponry, Fazerdaze, Katchafire, Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Aldous Harding, and 9Lives – the list goes on! It’s been an amazing and rewarding experience watching our artists excel on the international stage,” he says.
The programme is inclusive of music from all genres and styles and is open to applicants at different stages of international market development – from reaching a new global market to building and developing an existing global market.
More information can be found here.
Events and Activities
Throughout May, music fans around the world can expect a wide range of events with over 80 shows across Australia, Austria, Brazil, Denmark, France, Germany, Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, the UK, and USA.
This month, four New Zealand bands and artists, Kylie Price, DARTZ, Tom Lark, and Earth Tongue, will be making their way to the south of England to perform at the annual music festival, The Great Escape.
In addition to their official showcases, all four acts will be performing at the annual New Zealand matinee showcase which will take place at Patterns Downstairs, 10 Marine Parade, Thursday 16th of May, from 12pm to 4pm.
For more information visit greatescapefestival.com
Get Involved and Celebrate
New Zealand Music Month is your ticket to the vibrant and diverse music scene from New Zealand. Whether you’re a hardcore music fan or just curious to explore new sounds, there’s something for everyone.
