Byron “buzz” Newton - Tuba and Euphonium

Renowned tuba and euphonium artist, Byron "Buzz" Newton, takes center stage alongside pianist Brandan Agnew and special guest, NZSM baritone horn student Kate McGregor.

Featured Repertoire:

Concerto for Bass Tuba by R. Vaughan Williams: Immerse yourself in the rich harmonies and deep resonance of Vaughan Williams' masterpiece.

Blind Sport (for euphonium) by Gilles Rocha: Let yourself be enchanted by the expressive melodies and dynamic contrasts of Rocha's modern classic.

Fnugg Purple (for Looping Station) by Øystein Baadsvik/B. Newton: Brace yourself for the innovative soundscape of Fnugg Purple. With the aid of looping technology, Buzz creates intricate layers of sound, pushing the boundaries of what is possible on the euphonium.


Bio
Born in Ashburton, Byron ‘Buzz’ Newton earned his sweet nickname while working in the family honey business. Buzz holds degrees from the University of Canterbury, New Zealand School of Music, and the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, achieving a flawless 100% in his Master's recital.

His diverse career includes stints with the Tredegar Town Band (Wales), Wellington Brass Band, and over a decade in the Royal New Zealand Air Force Band. Buzz has performed with the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra, and the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra. Currently, he serves as the Principal Tuba of Orchestra Wellington.

Committed to music education, Buzz has been an Artist Teacher at the New Zealand School of Music since 2013. In 2016, he founded the Buzzing Brass Academy, fostering musical talent through a full-size brass band and a "Beeginner" group.