Support CTOA's Covid 19 Emergency Appeal

The Crescendo Trust of Aotearoa provides a development programme for young New Zealanders that nurtures, empowers and gives lifelong musicianship skills through mentoring, personal development and training for future careers in the creative industries.

“I was really unhappy at school and didn’t enjoy any of the subjects or teachers. Looking back on school I didn’t feel understood or seen. I began mentorship with Dave Atai at the Trust and found something I could put myself into, something I did well at, I turned up 100% and developed as a musician and person. I learnt loads of other skills and helped the trust with event management for performances. At the Crescendo Trust I felt like what I did meant something. I was always encouraged to do more, get more involved and I did." Amelia (CTOA Mentee)

Some of CTOA success stories include NZ Music Awards finalists, Church and AP. Gino October who has been signed to def jam/Universal. Liana Frangipani, Village. 90, Fredd the Ruinest, Disciple Pati, Revere3, all of whom have been nominated for Pacific music awards or have had their music played on the radio.

When Covid 19 hit New Zealand and the country moved into lockdown, CTOA had to adapt immediately and transition all our mentoring programmes online. Our work and connection has become more important than ever as we work to reduce isolation, give hope, focus, structure and alleviate fears in these uncertain times.

"We have made observations that young people we work with have felt isolated and alone. Through technology and the work of our mentors, we have alleviated the isolation and helped our young people feel connected and safe. Remote educating and mentoring has enabled our community and carried us through these difficult times." Marcus Powell (CEO)

Our events team has pulled together a Virtual Jam Cellar, showcasing the amazing talent of our rangatahi. This live event is held every Friday night at 7pm on Facebook, broadcast from our young peoples homes.

"We've been running virtual shows and workshops, not just for the chance to upskill and perform, but to make sure the rangatahi feel supported and part of a community." Dominic Hoey (Events and Comms Mentor)

Now, more than ever, our young people need us and we need you.  We are facing alarming reductions in grant funding options and the competitive nature of remaining funds mean that this will get only harder as time goes by. We need more than ever to continue to support or rangatahi to ensure we take care of their wellbeing, giving structure and opportunities for their development.

For further info go to www.ctoa.co.nz