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Last modified: 04 May 2021 8:15am

Promotional image of Adam McGrath sitting on a stack of old tires next to a barbed wire fence Selwyn’s libraries will be full with the sound of music over the next month.

Gigs, lessons, talks and more will all be on offer as part of the libraries’ celebration of New Zealand Music Month.

Senior District Arts, Culture and Lifelong Learning Coordinator Mat Logan says there will be activities for all ages with live music, lessons and workshops to give people a taste of what was out there in music, and an opportunity to be involved.

“It’s about being accessible, giving a space for anyone who’s interested to get involved in or learn more about the arts. And to promote New Zealand Music Month and New Zealand music generally.”

While the Level 4 Lockdown silenced the libraries over Music Month last year, live music will ring out again each weekend with Selwyn artists performing acoustic sessions at each library from 11am–1pm every Saturday over the month.

“That was really popular with people in 2019. We weren’t able to run last year because of the lockdown, so it’s cool to be able to bring that back and highlight local artists again this year,” Mr Logan says.

The Christchurch Symphony Orchestra will be bringing another music month favourite back with its popular annual music trail visiting each library, aimed at introducing children to the orchestra with their fun, family-friendly sessions.

Internationally acclaimed Christchurch folk singer and songwriter Adam McGrath is among the star billings and is hosting a free short course on songwriting at Lincoln Library on Thursday 6 May (bookings essential). Described by the NZ Herald as 'NZ's toughest minded songwriter', McGrath will be sharing his tips and experience in an evening for anyone with an interest in the process of songwriting or a desire to add some new perspectives to their own songwriting.

Selwyn musician and seasoned busker Lynette Diaz will also be hosting an interactive introduction for anyone interested in busking in Lincoln and there will be guitar lessons for adults and children at all four libraries.*