Meet the mentors guiding six young musicians on a journey toward the biggest performance of their lives.
Marcus Powell
Founder and CEO, Crescendo
Mentor and founder Marcus Powell Photo: Hunter Crouchley
Marcus (Te Āti Awa, Ngāpuh) has over 15 years of experience in the music industry and knows the importance of good role models. Marcus is passionate about using his knowledge and creativity to engage youth and help their dreams become a reality.
A founding member of the multi-platinum-selling band Blindspott, which formed in 1997, Marcus led a rock-and-roll lifestyle, which sent him down a rocky path. Marcus managed to pick himself up and find the help he needed to get his life on track, and now, through his love, skill, and knowledge of music, is supporting others to do the same. Marcus is a qualified audio engineer, holds a Diploma of Business Studies, and has completed multiple courses in youth mentoring.
David Atai
Producer and Mentor, Crescendo
Mentor David Atai Photo: Hunter Crouchley
David is an award-winning, multi-platinum-selling artist from groundbreaking NZ hip hop group Nesian Mystik, with a track record of producing hits. David has been involved in music since 1999 and is passionate about helping young musicians. He possesses the skills for working with young people and has various certificates, including those from The New Zealand Mentoring Network.
Cat Percy
Operations Manager and Mentor, Crescendo
Mentor Cat Percy Photo: Hunter Crouchley
Cat is the lady that holds 'em all together! Kinda like a big sis, with her cool ease and calmness, she manages to wrangle this bunch into shape. Cat is involved in the day-to-day running of the business, is very active in the group sessions one-on-one, and is teaching rangatahi how to communicate and express themselves to their whānau and community.
Cat has previously worked in the disability sector, and, on moving to NZ in 2017, was attracted to the work of Crescendo. Cat believes strongly in empowering young people to realise their own potential.
Riccardo Ball
Radio Mentor, Crescendo
Mentor Riccardo Ball Photo: Hunter Crouchley
Riccardo is one incredibly passionate rock and roller, who’s equally as enthusiastic about broadcasting and giving back to the industry. Riccardo has been working in the radio industry for 25 years and has filled nearly every role there is, including Breakfast Announcer, Music Director, Producer, Promotions Manager, and journalist.
As a mentor with Crescendo’s Rawkus Radio, Riccardo works with people new to the industry and helps them develop the tools they’ll need to pursue a career in the wider radio world. Riccardo balances his mentoring and educating with overseeing the running of the radio station. Riccardo currently fronts heavy metal band Just One Fix.
Made with the support of NZ On Air.
