Play It Strange is thrilled to today announce the winners of the Peace Song Competition, generously sponsored by The Wright Family Foundation. This year’s competition saw an overwhelming number of talented young musicians showcasing their creativity and passion for music, with a record-breaking 194 songs entered. We are excited to share that we have 52 exceptional finalists who have impressed our judges Bic Runga, Mike Chunn, Dave Johnston and Dianne Swann with their outstanding songwriting.
First-place goes to Betty Shen from Long Bay College for her track 'At least, I'll try'.
Betty Shen was a Play It Strange finalist twice last year, with her songs ‘Willow’s Song’ and ‘Sweet Potato’, available on Spotify here. Betty also had the winning album artwork on the 2024 Peace Song competition album.
Betty will receive a one-on-one mentoring session with Bic Runga, a $1,000 Rockshop gift card, a performance opportunity at Play It Strange’s annual awards, and an interview on 95bFM with their song played on the radio. Betty will work with a composer to create a backing arrangement for a quartet of orchestral instruments from Auckland Philharmonia’s Learn & Participate programme, who will also join Betty in the recording studio to professionally record her winning track. She will also receive an artist development mentoring session with SOLE Music Academy.
All 52 finalists (list here) will receive a professional recording of their song in a studio of their choice, with an incredible opportunity to work alongside some of New Zealand’s most recognised producers and engineers. Once recorded, these songs will be compiled into digital albums and uploaded to Spotify and Bandcamp.
Guest judge Bic Runga says about the entries in this year's Peace Song Competition:
"It's been a real privilege to hear what's on the minds of so many talented young people expressed through songwriting. Comparing them is almost impossible, as every single one has something special to say. I can't wait to hear the top songs recorded as an album, many of them I can't get out of my head, the quality is truly exceptional."
Guest judge Dave Johnston says about the entries in this year's Peace Song Competition:
“It’s been fantastic to observe the incredible variety of song styles submitted for this year’s Peace Song competition, and an absolute pleasure to hear the work of so many talented young songwriters. Congratulations to the winners and to everyone who had the courage to submit one of their creations!”
Play It Strange Founder Mike Chunn says of the winning song:
"The song “At least, I’ll try” is a weaving masterpiece whereby Betty Shen from Long Bay College takes her musical adventure with a lyrical engagement and we, the listeners, find ourselves in a riveting environment. There is magic in this song. And I congratulate Betty in the highest fashion. It’s a triumphant song and is a winner that walks with true pride."
Play It Strange CEO Stephanie Brown says:
"The entries into this year's Peace Song Competition have truly blown us away, and all 194 songs are deserving of a prize. The musical talent of rangatahi across Aotearoa is astounding. We can’t wait to share the recorded songs with you once the albums are published later in the year. There are already many songs that are on repeat on my playlist!"
Guest judge Dianne Swann’s message for those who aren’t finalists this year:
About Play It Strange:
Play It Strange was established in 2003 by cofounders Mike Chunn of Split Enz and Bill Moran, COO of New Zealand Treasury at the time. Their purpose is to provide an outlet for creative expression for secondary school-aged students in Aotearoa.
They run annual national songwriting competitions, with finalists awarded a day in a recording studio to professionally record their songs. Play It Strange provides a platform for emerging musicians to showcase their talents, through mentorship, performance opportunities, radio play and more. Their alumni list includes Kimbra, Georgia Nott of Broods, Liz Stokes of The Beths, Annah Mac, Louis Baker, and CHAII.
While many alumni have turned that passion into full-time music careers, there's inspiring stories every day from past alumni who now have careers as music teachers, in music therapy, and even teaching music in prisons.
ImpactLab recently calculated our tangible social return, stating Play It Strange increases specialised skills, improves mental health, increases creativity, and increases confidence. ImpactLab calculates the social value for each participant generated to be $1273, and that every year, Play It Strange delivers $619,926 of measurable good to New Zealand society.
Extensive research highlights the positive impact of music and the arts on emotional well-being, personal development, and cognitive skills in young people. Studies show music education improves academic performance, self-esteem, and social engagement. Their competitions provide young people with this opportunity.