Auckland’s Music in Parks Offers Four Nights of Free Concerts

Music enthusiasts in Auckland can look forward to four evenings of free concerts as part of the annual Music in Parks festival. The event, organized by the Auckland Council, will take place at Lloyd Elsmore Park in Pakuranga from January 14 to January 17, 2024. This year’s festival format includes four concerts designed to bring a vibrant mix of genres to the local community.

The Music in Parks series, known for its outdoor performances, has become a staple of Auckland’s summer events. This season, the festival features a total of 18 concerts across various locations in the city, although it runs for a shorter timeframe than usual, from January 7 to February 21. The opening concert kicked off at Milford Beach Reserve on January 7, showcasing a diverse lineup that includes jazz, blues, rock, pop, and electro.

Concert Highlights at Lloyd Elsmore Park

The concerts at Lloyd Elsmore Park will begin on January 14 with a jazz night featuring notable artists Joe Kaptein and the Musika Collective. This event will run from 18:00 to 20:30. Attendees are encouraged to bring a picnic rug, along with food from the Food Truck Collective, to enjoy the performances in a relaxed atmosphere.

Joe Kaptein, a talented jazz pianist and multi-instrumentalist, is renowned for his exceptional musicality. He is joined by the Musika Collective, a youth music group led by Polynesian musician Opeloge Ah Sam. The collective is recognized for blending professional performance with educational opportunities, and many of its members have participated in the Stand Up Stand Out competition.

On January 15, the park will host a hip-hop and reggae night featuring Rā Charmian and Swizl Jager. This concert will also take place from 18:00 to 20:30. Rā Charmian is celebrated for her vibrant mix of original songs and Māori waiata, having gained acclaim for her album, Waiata Wairua. Alongside her, Swizl Jager brings a unique bilingual rap style influenced by his diverse musical background.

The third concert on January 16 will feature soul and R&B artists Sam V and Alayna. This event will showcase Sam V, a multi-award-winning artist recognized as a leading figure in the Pacific R&B scene, known for his captivating vocals. Alayna, whose debut album Self Portrait of a Woman Unravelling was released in 2023, is noted for her emotionally resonant sound.

Celebrating Pacific Music

The festival will conclude on January 17 with a special evening dedicated to Pasifika music, in partnership with the Pacific Music Awards. This concert will feature nominees and winners from last year’s awards, celebrating a vibrant array of genres such as funk, pop, and rock. Since 2005, the Pacific Music Awards have recognized excellence in Pacific music, honoring artists from various island nations.

The Music in Parks initiative aims to unite communities through live music, making it accessible to everyone. Organizers emphasize the inclusive nature of these concerts, inviting attendees to experience a range of musical styles alongside family and friends.

With four diverse evenings of free live performances, Music in Parks at Lloyd Elsmore Park promises to be a highlight of Auckland’s summer, offering something for music lovers of all ages.