Marsden’s auditorium was filled with music and celebration during this year’s Swainson Memorial Music Competition, featuring a vibrant programme of 39 performances from students in Years 7 to 13.

Held annually alongside the Nell Clere Music Scholarship, the competition provides an opportunity for students to share their musical talents across a wide range of instruments and vocal styles. Once again, the event highlighted the depth of musical excellence within the Marsden community.

This year’s adjudicator, Oleksandr (Sasha) Gunchenko of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, brought a wealth of international experience to the role. Born in Kyiv, Ukraine, Sasha trained at the Lysenko School of Music and the Tchaikovsky Conservatory, before performing with leading orchestras in Ukraine. Since immigrating to New Zealand, he has established an impressive career as both a performer and educator.

The day concluded with a prizegiving and a special prizewinners’ concert, where selected students performed once again to close the event. Congratulations to all students who took part, and especially to this year’s award recipients.

Middle School Prize for Junior Performance (Years 7–8)

The Middle School Prize recognises outstanding performance by students in Years 7 and 8.

Adjudicator’s Award: Caitlin Kwok (viola)

Highly Commended: Clara Casserly (voice)

Middle School Cup: An Pham (piano)

Marian Campbell Prize for Junior Performance (Years 9–10)

The Marian Campbell Prize recognises outstanding performance by students in Years 9 and 10.

Adjudicator’s Award: Christina He (violin)

Highly Commended: Leah Zhai (guzheng)

Marian Campbell Cup: Claire Zhong (flute)

Betty Swainson Memorial Prize for Musical Performance (Years 11–13)

Established in 1978, the Betty Swainson Memorial Prize recognises outstanding musical performance by senior students.

Adjudicator’s Award: Jessica Caldwell (voice)

Highly Commended: Emily Yu (piano)

Betty Swainson Memorial Prize: Abi Hyde (voice)

Nell Clere Music Scholarship

Kathleen Clere (Nell) was a past pupil and music teacher at Marsden. She helped establish the Old Girls’ Association with Miss Baber and in 1936 was its second president. Her interest and support in the school and its endeavours remained with her all her life.

The Nell Clere Music Scholarship, awarded by the Marsden Old Girls’ Association, supports students in Years 7–12 who demonstrate outstanding musical potential, enabling them to continue their musical studies at Marsden.

Highly Commended: An Pham (piano)

Nell Clere Music Scholarship: Yani Jiang (piano)

The Swainson Memorial Music Competition remains a highlight of Marsden’s performing arts calendar, celebrating not only musical achievement, but also the dedication, courage, and creativity of its young musicians.