Creative & Performing Arts

Minho Choi – Alumni

At ACG Strathallan, music is more than an extracurricular activity - it’s a platform for creativity, leadership, and national recognition. Few embody this spirit more than 2024 graduate Minho Choi, whose journey from a curious Year 3 drummer to an award-winning jazz performer and arranger is as inspiring as it is impressive. 

In 2024, Minho helped lead multiple school jazz ensembles to remarkable success on the national stage. The Tauranga Youth Jazz Competition saw ACG Parnell ensembles sweep the podium, with Gold Awards for the Double Cheeseburger Combo, Stocktakers, and Trio of Four. Minho was also named Best Performer in a Combo and received the prestigious Best Young Arranger award. These achievements were followed by further accolades, including a Gold Award at the Auckland Jazz Competition and podium finishes at KBB Music Festival and SAPACS. 

Reflecting on his journey, Minho recalls the turning point in Year 10 when he experienced live jazz at Tauranga for the first time. “It was a huge inspiration. I started taking jazz more seriously - it became my goal to one day win a national award,” he shares. In 2024, that goal was fulfilled. Yet, it wasn’t just about accolades - Minho’s growth was rooted in deep reflection and resilience. “After 2023, I knew I needed to learn from past mistakes and focus my energy. That mindset shift was a turning point for my playing.” 

Rather than viewing setbacks as failure, Minho embraced them as learning moments. “I realised I couldn’t win Best Drummer if I kept splitting my focus. So, I leaned into composition, supporting other musicians, and growing my skills across instruments.” That decision paid off - and not just in awards. He became a mentor to his peers, arranging original works for the school’s ensembles and guiding younger musicians through rehearsals and performance preparation. 

Balancing music with academic responsibilities is no easy task, but Minho credits smart time management and focused study strategies. “Instead of long practice hours, I break things down into focused 15-minute blocks. I also chose to study three subjects in Year 13 so I could prioritise music and prepare for university.” 

Today, Minho is continuing to build on this success. After passing his LTCL diploma with distinction, he won Best Drummer at the 2025 National Young Jazz Band-it Competition and released his debut album Birds and Fruit - now available on all major streaming platforms. He’s currently studying Music and Business at the University of Auckland, while also returning to ACG Parnell to teach as an itinerant music teacher and director of the jazz ensembles programme. 

Minho’s journey is a testament to what’s possible when talent is matched with tenacity, and when a school’s arts programme fosters both excellence and innovation. Congratulations to Minho and all our outstanding musicians - the rhythm of success continues. 

Harry Kim – Year 12

ACG Strathallan’s vibrant music programme is home to many talented students, and Year 12 scholarship recipient Harry Kim stands out as a gifted and dedicated musician. A Grade 8 cellist currently working towards his LTCL diploma (equivalent to two years of university study), Harry’s musical accomplishments extend well beyond the classroom. 

He has performed with the ABRSM Top Scholars, the New Korean Symphony Orchestra, and has participated in play-ins with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra. Most recently, he was appointed a member of the prestigious Auckland Youth Orchestra. In addition to performing, Harry shares his expertise as a cello teacher at Papakura Music School and offers private tuition across a range of instruments. 

Harry’s love of music began at the age of seven, with early piano studies before discovering his passion for the cello. Since joining ACG Strathallan, he has broadened his musical repertoire to include electric guitar and actively participates in multiple school ensembles. He also serves as a Languages and Cultures Prefect and is a committed leader and contributor to the school's cultural life. 

Inspired daily by his peers and teachers, Harry’s passion for composing, arranging, and performing continues to flourish. His journey is a testament to the impact of dedication, mentorship, and the joy of playing music in a supportive and inspiring community. 

Queenie Zhao – Year 8

At just 12 years old, Queenie (Ziqi) Zhao, a Year 8 student, is already an accomplished and passionate musician. A skilled pianist and performer of the guzheng - a traditional Chinese instrument with over 2,500 years of history - Queenie brings a unique blend of talent, cultural pride, and dedication to every performance. 

Her musical journey began at the age of six, and from the moment she first heard the captivating sounds of the guzheng, she was mesmerized. While the path hasn’t always been easy, her perseverance through daily practice and musical challenges has shaped her into a confident and expressive performer. Queenie finds joy in progress and pride in sharing her culture, often receiving curious and heartfelt reactions from audiences unfamiliar with the guzheng. Through her music, she connects people across cultures and keeps tradition alive. 

In 2023, Queenie achieved a major milestone by winning the International Magnolia Music Festival (Australasia) in the traditional instruments category. She also recently passed her ABRSM Grade 8 piano exam with distinction, a testament to her exceptional skill and commitment to her craft. 

Beyond technical excellence, Queenie sees music as a meaningful outlet - a source of calm, confidence, and creativity. Her advice to aspiring young artists is simple but powerful: “Believe in yourself, don’t give up, and stay positive.” Her story is a beautiful reminder that music is more than performance - it is a lifelong companion that enriches, empowers, and inspires.