Onehunga High School

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Music

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Music at OHS offers students the opportunity to develop their creativity, confidence, and musicianship through a balance of performance, composition, listening, and music theory. Whether students are experienced performers or just beginning their musical journey, our programmes provide pathways for growth and achievement at every level.

Students in Years 10–13 develop practical performance skills, theoretical understanding, composition techniques, and the ability to analyse and appreciate a wide range of musical styles and contexts. Performance is a central focus of all music courses, with students regularly participating in solo and group performances throughout the year.

Our senior programmes prepare students for NCEA success and provide strong foundations for further study in music, university pathways, and careers within the creative industries.

The OHS Music Department is housed in a dedicated music block featuring:

  • Modern music classrooms
  • A suite of Mac computers equipped with industry-standard music software
  • Dedicated practice and rehearsal rooms
  • Performance and recording opportunities
  • Access to a range of musical instruments and equipment

OHS is proud to offer free instrumental and vocal lessons with specialist tutors. These lessons provide students with the opportunity to develop their skills alongside classroom learning and participate in a variety of performance opportunities throughout the year.Tuition is available in:

  • Brass
  • Drums
  • Guitar
  • Piano
  • Strings
  • Vocals

Students are encouraged to become involved in the vibrant musical life of the school through performances, ensembles, bands, and special events. These experiences help students build confidence, teamwork, leadership, and a lifelong appreciation of music.

Whether students aspire to perform on stage, compose original music, pursue tertiary study, or simply enjoy making music with others, OHS Music provides an engaging and supportive environment where every student can thrive.

 Success 2026  

OHS Music students continue to achieve success at both regional and national levels through their performance, composition, and songwriting.

In 2026, OHS students achieved outstanding success through original music, songwriting, and performance. Year 11 band M.O.A. progressed to the Smokefree Rockquest Auckland Central Finals, placing them among the top 12 bands in Auckland. Vocalist and songwriter Xavier Nakatsuji was recognised with the Lyric Writer Award, highlighting the strength of original music being created by OHS students.

Year 11 student Dornia Silupe-Ulumani enjoyed an exceptional year of success. At the Auckland Rockquest Solo/Duo competition, she won the Best Lyrics Award and placed 2nd overall, with judges praising her songwriting, guitar playing, and "silky smooth and effortless" vocal performance. Earlier in the year, Dornia also placed third nationally in the Play It Strange Junior Songwriting Competition with her original song The Home of the Gone, earning the opportunity to professionally record her work.

These achievements reflect the creativity, dedication, and talent of OHS musicians, as well as the opportunities available through our Music programme for students to develop as performers, composers, and songwriters while sharing their original work with audiences across New Zealand.

Rockquest 2026 - M.O.A

Auckland finalists and winner of the APRA Lyric Award

Rockquest 2026 - Dornia Silupe-Ulumani,

Auckland finalist, placed 2nd and winner of the Lyric Award