Award winning music talents

Tauranga music and silent film lovers are being given an opportunity to enjoy the award-winning talents of international organ composer Nathan Avakian this October.

The 25-year-old has composed original Wurlitzer organ scores to accompany seven genres of films entered into the International Youth Silent Film Festival New Zealand Regional Competition, which is at Baycourt Community and Arts Centre's Addison Theatre on October 22.


Award-winning international organ composer Nathan Avakian. Supplied Photo: John Thiele.

'The theatre organ performs best when it is auxiliary to other entertainment,” says Nathan.

'The IYSFF allows it to function in this authentic role without being associated with any of the stereotypes that make it unappealing to younger generations.”

The IYSFF is a competition specifically for young filmmakers, aged 20 and under, who've been tasked to create a three-minute silent film using Nathan's musical scores as inspiration.

Baycourt is playing host for the inaugural IYSFF NZ regional competition as its Wurlitzer is in excellent condition and a major drawcard for music enthusiasts from throughout the country.

The three winning films will go on to compete in the international competition, which will be in Portland, America, in June 2017.

'Creating and performing music in any context is a fulfilling experience,” says Nathan. 'But watching young artists find their voice through my music is the most gratifying thing I've ever been a part of as a musician.

'I'm extremely grateful to be a part of this festival and I can't wait to see what stories New Zealand filmmakers share with the world!”

The International Youth Silent Film Festival New Zealand Regional Competition is at Baycourt Community and Arts Centre's Addison Theatre on October 22. Tickets cost $10 from www.ticketek.co.nz Entry is free for students and children.

SunLive has two double passes to give away to two lucky readers who can tell us the name of the theatre at Baycourt where the International Youth Silent Film Festival New Zealand Regional Competition is being held?

Enter online at www.sunlive.co.nz under the competition section. All entries must be received by Wednesday, October 5.

You may also like....

0 comments

Leave a Comment


You must be logged in to make a comment.