The Rangitoto Big Band and North Sea Combo are the premium jazz ensembles out of the big bands and six jazz combos at the College. This comprehensive jazz programme has been developed over the last 15 years and is still extremely popular amongst our students. The big band rehearses Tuesdays after school and sections are expected to organise an additional sectional rehearsal once a week, which is led by students. The band enjoys playing a wide range of tunes from all genres and eras of jazz and is not afraid to take a risk in regards to often choosing some of the more challenging charts on offer.
Next to a yearly rehearsal camp and a trip to the Wellington Jazz Festival, the big band also enjoyed international trips to Hawaii (2017) and New York (2013). The participation at the Auckland Jazz & Blues Club School’s competition is also a cornerstone on our calendar, and we are proud to have supported this event every year since its beginning 12 (?) years ago.
Our big band students are often going on to study Jazz at tertiary level, and we are currently the biggest single school contributor to the AKL UNI school of Music’s Jazz programme.
Tonight we are joined by some alumni students from Rangitoto College, which are currently studying at the Auckland University or have already finished their tertiary study of Jazz in their respective instruments.
Alumni Rangitoto Band, consisting of top young jazz musicians, most of which have already graduated with honours from Auckland University are:-
Wil Goodinson – Bass, Dan Waterson – Drums, Michael Gianan – Guitar, Ben Gailer – Piano
Jack Thirtle – Trumpet
Members and Students with ID = $5
Non-Members = $15