Last year in December, as the festive season approached, the Performing Arts Department of the New Zealand Starry Garden (NZSG) brought holiday cheer to three branches of the Creative Garden Early Learning Centres in South Auckland: Otara, Papakura, and Dawson. With interactive performances and hands-on music education, NZSG turned ordinary days into extraordinary experiences for the tamariki and staff.
The NZSG team visited the centres in the weeks leading up to the summer holidays, transforming them into vibrant spaces filled with music, laughter, and plenty of festive spirit. The performances were designed to engage children of all ages, combining holiday-themed songs, traditional Maori waiata, and popular children's tunes. It was a lively mix that had everyone singing along and dancing to the beat.
What set these performances apart was their interactive nature. NZSG encouraged the children to join in, whether by clapping along to the rhythm or singing familiar melodies. From volunteer Angel’s violin to department leader Kino’s flute to synthetic sounds from digital libraries, the children had a blast exploring a variety of sounds.
Beyond the music, our music education team at NZSG incorporated storytelling into their sessions, sparking the children's imaginations and inviting them to be part of the story. This approach not only kept the kids entertained but also helped them develop important skills like listening, cooperation, and creativity.
The collaboration between NZSG and the Creative Garden Early Learning Centres was more than just about having fun — it was about building connections and fostering a sense of community. The parents, teachers and staff were thrilled to see the children so engaged, with many noting how the music brought a sense of joy and excitement to the centres.
"It was amazing to see the children so enthusiastic and involved," said Suzy, the manager of Creative Garden Dawson. "They loved exploring the instruments and dancing. It was a fantastic way to kick off the holiday season.”
With a commitment to community engagement and music education, New Zealand Starry Garden is making a difference, one note at a time. Keep an eye out for more exciting events and performances from us in the coming months!