Giving musicians the opportunity to showcase their talent was the inspiration behind new charity, Music by the River, which aims to help up-and-coming musicians develop their skills and perform in front of a live audience.
Founder and musician, Elena Brown, along with a number of supporters, has spent the last six months finding and fitting out an appropriate location to use as a performance venue. Music by the River opened its doors for the first time on 21 June at 88 Commercial Road, Helensville. The new venue with amazing views out over the Kaipara River is an ideal space to enjoy live music.
“As a musician myself I know how hard it is to find somewhere to perform so I decided to do something about it. Living locally I was also aware that there are a lot of very talented people in the Kaipara area, and it would be great for them to have somewhere to come and perform for family, friends and other music lovers. We feel very passionate about helping emerging musicians share their talent and love of music.
“We’re thrilled at the response we’ve received so far and hope to see even more musicians take up the opportunity to perform at Music by the River. We have already had performances from a variety of genres. From young up and coming bands, individual musicians to more experienced artists. It has been particularly inspiring to hear first-hand some of the talented young musicians from Kaipara College,” says Elena.
Since opening, Music by the River has showcased performances from guitarist/singer Connor Charles, Kaipara College band, Jack & The Stennings, classical guitarist Kevin Kench and violin and keyboard duo Serge & Jemma. The performances can be viewed on Music by the River’s facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/helensvillemusic/timeline
Music by the River’s free concert is held on the last Sunday of every month from 1-4pm. Refreshments including drinks; cakes and muffins are available for a small charge. The venue is also available to hire Monday through Saturday, and is an ideal location for weddings, private functions and birthday parties; a schedule of charges is available on request.
Elena invites musicians interested in performing at a Sunday concert to contact her at: musicbytheriver88@gmail.com. Music by the River is also available free of charge for musicians needing a rehearsal space.
Come along to the next free concert on Sunday 30th August, 1-4pm. Support local musicians and enjoy a relaxing Sunday afternoon, at Music by the River – 88 Commercial Road, Helensville.
