The stage was set, the amps were buzzing, and the future of New Zealand music was sounding better than ever.
On Saturday evening 20 September, Auckland Town Hall came alive as the finalists of the 2025 Stand Up Stand Out (SUSO) Secondary School Music Competition battled it out across four electrifying categories: band, songwriting, solo instrumental, and solo vocalist.
SUSO has long been the launchpad for young artists finding their voice, and this year’s talent was nothing short of spectacular. After months of heats and semi-finals, these students have proven that music isn’t just a pastime, it’s a lifeline, a way to tell stories, build confidence, and connect with the world.
SUSO is another way for Auckland to celebrate its status as a UNESCO City of Music, providing young people with access to and participation in the programme, as well as sharing the enjoyment of music with students, schools, their families and all Aucklanders.
“The energy and artistry these young musicians brought to the stage was inspiring,” said SUSO judges Pos Mavaega and Manuel Bundy, who praised the creativity and dedication shown throughout the competition.
Sam V, who guided the songwriting category, was impressed with the exceptional talent of all the students who bared their hearts through original compositions that blended raw honesty with dazzling musicianship.
Judges in the solo vocal category, Cherie Mathieson and Tree Vaifale, agreed what a privilege it was to witness such talent and passion on stage.
“SUSO champions great talent, year-on-year, from heats to finals. Each voice carried so much emotion and depth, and they were all a breath of fresh air,” said Tree. “Not to mention the level of professionalism at this age was just incredible to witness”.
“It’s always exciting to watch the students step into the spotlight with such poise and confidence,” adds Cherie. “Their incredible vocal abilities combined with how well they engage with the audience truly showcased their strength as performers.”
The journey doesn’t end at the Town Hall.
On Saturday 27 September, the electronic finalists are invited to an exclusive industry experience at Aesium Music House. This rare, finalists-only event offers an afternoon of insight and inspiration featuring Adam Fuhr (Serato/Homebrew), Elliot de Latour (Music Specialist, Les Mills International), and hosted by Ableton Certified Trainer Chris Cox (aka Frank Booker).
Students will take part in panel discussions, studio sessions, and even share their own productions in a world-class recording space.
Auckland Council’s Arts and Culture Programmer Gene Rivers said the standard of competition in 2025 ratcheted up another notch.
“This year’s SUSO showcased not only technical brilliance but also the role music plays in the lives of young people as a source of expression, resilience, and joy.
“Every student who took to the stage in the finals brought courage, creativity, and heart, supported by their schools and whānau.”
Now, as the spotlight fades for another year, one thing is certain: these young artists are ready to stand up, stand out, and remind us, the future of Aotearoa’s music is in good hands.
Results below:
Group Vocal
Winner: Toka Tu Moana Choir – Tangaroa College
Runner-up: Avondale Gospel Choir – Avondale College
Solo Instrumental
Winner: Psalms Vaotuua – De La Salle College
Runner-up: Nau Pasikala – Aorere College
Solo Vocal
Winner: Jahrian Siliva – Manurewa High School
Runner-up: Genesis Tagaloa – St Paul’s College
Dance
Winner: AO Elite Dance Crew – Aorere College
Runner-up: Mean Massey Energy – Massey High School
Best Original Composition
Winner Solo: Cazna – Ōtāhuhu College
Winner Group: Rotten Weather – Long Bay College
Overall Runner-up: Chop Stix – Sancta Maria College
Band
Winner: First Impressions – St Paul’s College
Runner-up: Exodus – De La Salle College
Best Artist
Cameron Beattie – Long Bay College
SUSO Electronic Finalist: Melodic Production
Levi Fitzgerald “Ashfall” (Kingsway School)
SUSO Electronic Finalist: Collaboration-Ready Production
Evan Baird - E_Bizzy “Classic Fin” (Long Bay College)
SUSO Electronic Finalist: Composition
Noah Birchall “Andromeda” (Pukekohe)
SUSO Electronic Finalist: Vocal Production
Sancy Prabhakar “LE FIN w/ Madz & Adam” (Mt Albert Grammar)
SUSO Electronic Finalist: Production
Aayu$h "Square One" (Ormiston College)
