Play It Strange recently unveiled the winners of the 2025 Junior Songwriting Competition, a platform for Year 9-11 high school students to showcase their musical talents. This year, a record-breaking 180 entries flooded in, highlighting the abundance of creativity among New Zealand’s budding songwriters.
An esteemed panel including Louis Baker, CHAII, Georgia Lines, and Mike Chunn meticulously reviewed each submission, ultimately selecting 45 exceptional songs for recognition. The top honor was claimed by Sienna Fitzgerald, a Year 10 student whose poignant track titled “Sweetness” captivated the judges.
Guest judge Louis Baker commended the winning song’s exceptional quality, while Georgia Lines expressed her admiration for the emotive narratives woven into the entries. Sienna’s triumph not only earned her a day in a professional recording studio but also a one-on-one mentoring session with Louis Baker, a $500 Rockshop voucher, and a chance to perform at the Play It Strange Annual Awards.
Securing second place was Isabella Bedoya with her song “In Ten Years,” followed by Lucy Hassan’s “The Ballad of a Broken Poet” in third place. The recognition came with Rockshop vouchers and the opportunity to join the Play It Strange alumni community, offering a plethora of industry-related perks and experiences.
Play It Strange founder Mike Chunn lauded the evolving sophistication of the competition entries, noting the seamless integration of music and lyrics in this year’s submissions. CEO Stephanie Brown echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the transformative impact of the competition on young artists across the nation.
Established in 2003, Play It Strange has been a vital platform for nurturing emerging talent in New Zealand. The organization’s annual competitions not only provide young musicians with recording opportunities but also pave the way for mentorship and performance experiences essential for their growth in the industry.
As the music scene continues to evolve, events like the Play It Strange Junior Songwriting Competition serve as crucial stepping stones for aspiring artists, offering them a chance to shine on a national stage and receive valuable feedback from industry experts. The competition’s ability to foster creativity and talent bodes well for the future of New Zealand’s music landscape.
With past alumni including notable names like Kimbra, Georgia Nott, and Louis Baker, Play It Strange stands as a beacon of support and encouragement for the next generation of musical trailblazers. The impact of such initiatives extends far beyond accolades and prizes, shaping the trajectory of young artists and enriching the cultural tapestry of Aotearoa.
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