Teacher awarded for role in libraries’ music festival

Expecting just to play the guitar before morning tea, teacher and musician Brendan Christie was yesterday "stunned" to receive a special honour from Dunedin’s public libraries.

Mr Christie was awarded the Dunedin Public Libraries Citation for this year, at a gathering at the Dunedin City Library, attended by more than 60 people.

The award was made for his role in co-ordinating the libraries’ successful Nook & Cranny Music Festival, which has been held in May over the past four years as part of New Zealand Music Week celebrations.

During the festival, musicians play in almost every nook and cranny of the city library, including the lift.

The citation recognises the valuable contribution to the libraries of many people, including writers, artists and sponsors.

The honour is awarded to a Dunedin resident who has made a long and outstanding contribution to the libraries’ collections, services or programmes.

Teacher and musician Brendan Christie accepts an artwork by Dunedin visual artist Lynn Taylor, to...
Teacher and musician Brendan Christie accepts an artwork by Dunedin visual artist Lynn Taylor, to honour his community music festival co-ordination efforts. Photo: Gregor Richardson

 

Library services manager Bernie Hawke said the festival had "grown hugely in popularity and attendance" over the years.

"We are very grateful for Brendan’s tireless support in bringing free live music performances to the community, raising the profile of local musicians and songwriters, film-makers and photographers, and for giving new performers the courage to take the stage for the first time in a public venue," he said.

Mr Christie appreciated the help of Dunedin Public Libraries events co-ordinator Kay Mercer and said the festival had been strongly backed by city musicians.

Dunedin City Council community and culture committee chairwoman Cr Marie Laufiso thanked the many volunteers and others who had helped the libraries, and made the citation presentation to Mr Christie, during the libraries’ annual Christmas morning tea to acknowledge people who had helped during the year.

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