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Aspiring musicians in Wellsford and the wider Rodney area will have the opportunity to develop their performance skills later this month, when the free Intensive Band Sessions programme returns in celebration of New Zealand Music Month.
Running from April 14 to May 17 at A+ Music Studio, the initiative is designed for intermediate-level musicians looking to build confidence, develop stage presence and gain hands-on experience performing live.
The programme is led by A+ Music’s Martin Worthington in partnership with the Rodney Local Board. Participants will be offered at least three free sessions, culminating in a live community performance.
“We did a youth festival for Rodney in February last year, then A+ Music put on Band Sessions 1, with a showcase concert in January,” Worthington said. “Registrations for the upcoming workshops are almost full, but we still have a few spots available. We have an incredible age range, from 11 right up to retirees.”
Worthington, a lifelong musician, started as a classically trained pianist at age seven and performed at the Auckland Town Hall as a child. Over a 30-year career, he has played in several bands, most recently Zyfus, a grunge rock group that reached the finals of the 2025 Battle of the Bands.
However, his journey has not been without challenges. In 2006, a serious accident crushed his hand, requiring multiple surgeries and years of recovery.
“That situation definitely inspired me to help others in their quest for musical passion,” he said. “Vocals are now a big part of me, because although I can still play rhythm guitar, it is too painful to play other instruments for long.”
Despite the setback, Worthington went on to establish his own studio and has since focused on mentoring others.
“Sometimes our darker moments only make us stronger,” he said.
The Band Sessions programme is open to individuals and groups, including beginner bands seeking experience. Participants can perform solo, as duos or as full bands, with no restrictions on musical style.
Sessions will also feature support from sound engineers, stagehands and house band Whiskey in the Jar, who will assist with live performances throughout the programme.
The sessions will take place at A+ Music Studio, 163 Rodney Street, Wellsford.
