NZ Music Month is an annual event managed by the New Zealand Music Commission. Its purpose is to celebrate and grow awareness of home-grown music. We’re proud to be an official venue, hosting a wide variety of concerts during the month of May.

This year the focus is to “Discover New Music” and find something new – a new band, genre, new tracks or a new album by a New Zealand artist. As music is valued in many genres and ways, we are keen to help New Zealanders discover music in places they may not generally think of, like The PumpHouse!

If you’re looking for something ‘different’ next month, look no further. These are all going to be stellar performances and there’s something new for everyone to enjoy.

Kicking off our May line-up, we’ve got treasured New Zealander Denise Norton presenting A Musical Jazz Cabaret. Denise is a former classical dancer/singer and has been involved in the music industry for more than 20 years. Her show features jazz standards, highlights from well-known musicals and films, and from composers Stephen Sondheim and Andrew Lloyd Webber. If, like me, you wish your life was a musical – then this one’s for you!

Following Denise on the Sunday is Dominic Blaazer and The Maximum Philharmonic Orchestra. A stalwart of New Zealand music, Blaazer has played alongside Don McGlashan, SJD, and The Chills, and accompanied the Topp Twins, John Rowles, Goldenhorse, David Kilgour and The Clean, among many others. This talented North Shore musician (can you believe it?) is showcasing his new album “The Lights of Te Atatu” with his nine-piece orchestral band. The opening act is special guest Jan Hellriegel, one of New Zealand’s most respected songwriters.

Lastly, if you really want something “out there” then come to Adrian Portia’s Handpan Music. It’s guaranteed a great performance. He’s a world renowned, Australian-based drummer and percussionist. Adrian J. Portia is bringing his stunning Handpan music to New Zealand for the first time. He has been recognised internationally as one of the leaders and educators of the instrument, widely known for his speed, control and command.

Take a look at all our music events at www.pumphouse.co.nz. It’s not every day there’s such an array of talented musicians in one month!