As schools are not always able to offer large scale band programs, West City has worked with the community to fill this gap and provide a concert band program for West Auckland youth. Our youth band comprises primarily of students from various Auckland high schools and practices weekly during the school term.
The music director for the Youth Concert Band is Charlie Bi.
Our Musical Director
Born in Qingdao, China, Charlie immigrated to Aotearoa at the age of eight. He began learning the clarinet and saxophone at age eleven.
Charlie holds a Bachelor of Science degree, majoring in Biology and Psychology, and is currently based in Tāmaki Makaurau, where he is Head of Music. He serves as the Musical Director of the West City Youth Concert Band, which he recently led to a Gold Award at the 2025 New Zealand Concert Band Association Festival in Wellington. Charlie is also a member of the Auckland Saxophone Ensemble.
He is passionate about education and inspiring young musicians, fostering their love for music and helping them discover the joy of performance and collaboration. In his spare time, he enjoys watching movies, hiking around the motu, and trying new recipes.
Recent Awards
| NZCBA Festival 2025 – Wellington | GOLD |
| NZCBA Festival 2024 – Hamilton | GOLD |
| NZCBA Festival 2023 – Auckland | GOLD |
| NZCBA Festival 2022 – Hamilton | SILVER |
Rehearsals
The West City Concert Band rehearses on Monday evenings, from 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm.
Rehearsal venue:
Liston College
69 Rathgar Road
Henderson, Auckland