Lawrence Arps

A veteran of over 2500 gigs, 500 livesound mixes and hundreds of recordings Lawrence has continued to play and record since coming to the Coast to teach in 1994. A self confessed guitar fanatic Lawrence's style is heavily influenced by blues and classic rock while his listening taste includes a wide range of guitarists of all styles. 30 years of studying guitar maintenance, setup and construction has lead to an interest in lutherie with 7 guitars  designed and built by the end of 2009. Alongside his musical background Lawrence brings management experience  to the team and has filled the role of chairman of the trust since its inception.   

Photo by Sharon Painter-Arps.

Katie Thompson

West Coast singer songwriter Katie Thompson has been apart of the West Coast music scene for a number of years now. She started out as the drummer of “Aprillis” an all girl rock band then once the band ended she went onto writing her own music. She released her self funded debut album “Tall Poppy” in May 09. She has appeared on New Zealand’s Breakfast show, Nightline and Close Up after reaching $50k on SellaBand. Katie is taking a break from tutoring YMDT bands as she is about to head over to the UK with brother Chris Thompson to record her 2^nd album with top producer Greg Haver.

Chris Thompson

Chris is a 21 year old musician from Hokitika. He has crafted his guitar playing with the guidance of guitar tutor Leah O'Driscoll. This lead to him attending CPIT's jazz school, gaining his bachelor of music degree. During his time there he received the Alan Robinson Memorial trophy, awarded to the top first year guitarist at Jazz school. He has also received various top awards at secondary school level and from his tuition from Leah. Chris has recently moved back to Hokitika to tutor guitar and piano for a period of time. He looks forward to working with the youth of the coast and hopes to help further the development of the music scene in the coast.

Glenda Jennison

I have been involved with the YMDT since 2004.  My eldest daughter Lochie, she has been in numerous YMDT bands over the years, and is currently a member of “ Night in the Asylum”, hence my involvement!  I was  often called on as a roadie, getting the gear & the band member to where they needed to be.  I have also stood in as tutor/supervisor when extra band practices were needed, especially when big gigs were coming up, like Smoke free Rock Quest.  I have been a trustee since May 2010, and am currently Fundraiser coordinator for Rock Camp 2010 being held in Auckland.