Bach to Brubeck and beyond charity concert

This genre-blending concert celebrates the rich tapestry of music from classical to jazz, and in between. Featuring timeless works alongside soulful tributes to legends like Nina Simone, Ella Fitzgerald, and Eva Cassidy, plus instrumental jazz favourites performed by some of New Zealand’s top musicians, this vibrant concert promises something for every music lover. 

Tom Rainey ONZM is a leading figure in New Zealand’s performing arts scene, known for his work as an instrumentalist, arranger, composer, producer, and conductor. A versatile musician, he has performed on keys and bass with a wide array of artists, including Georgie Fame, Lee Konitz, James Morrison, Bic Runga, and Dave Dobbyn, and supported major acts such as Cher, Art Garfunkel, and the Beach Boys.

Tom is one of the country’s most sought-after arrangers, with over 200 orchestral scores performed by the NZSO, all regional orchestras, and internationally by the Royal Philharmonic and Liverpool Philharmonic. His work spans genres, notably blending popular and orchestral music in acclaimed collaborations with Ria Hall, Tiki Taane and Salmonella Dub, and tributes to artists ABBA, the Bee Gees and the Beatles.

As a composer for screen and stage, Tom’s credits include TV series, documentaries, and over 350 episodes of the children’s show Bumble. As a respected educator, he spent 29 years at Ara Institute (formerly CPIT), where he led Performing Arts and Creative Industries.

In 2020, Tom was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) for his significant contributions to music and music education. He continues to lead and inspire across a wide range of creative projects in Aotearoa and beyond.