Tutors for 2026

Rennie Pearson

We are delighted to announce that multi-instrumentalist Rennie Pearson will be joining us this year. Rennie was a tutor at GT a few years ago and we are thrilled that he is coming back. 

​Rennie Pearson’s music is deeply rooted in the Celtic traditions of Ireland, Scotland, and Maritime Canada, blending centuries-old melodies with fresh energy and artistry. Whether he’s performing on the wooden flute, guitar, Irish tin whistles, bodhrán, fiddle, or with his voice, his music takes audiences on a journey through history and culture. Rennie is a master performer on a wide array of instruments, showcasing extraordinary talent and versatility in every performance. His seamless command of multiple musical styles captivates audiences, while the heartfelt emotion in his slow airs and songs resonates deeply, creating a powerful and personal connection.  

With a career that has taken him across New Zealand, Australia, Ireland, Canada, America, and China, Rennie’s performances are as intimate as they are captivating. Whether he’s playing dance music that makes you want to leap from your chair or delivering a hauntingly beautiful piece that brings tears to the eyes, his artistry and passion for this beautiful and ancient music leave a lasting impression on all who hear him. As he continues to captivate audiences worldwide, Rennie remains dedicated to sharing the depth and richness of Celtic music, ensuring its traditions endure and inspire future generations.

Further information about Rennie is available on his website:

https://www.renniepearsonmusic.com/

Richard Lees

Another tutor we are welcoming back, and very much looking forward to engaging with, is master craftsman Richard Lees. Richard will be part of the Village with his traditional wood and other crafts.

Andrina Eyles

Wool has always been a part of my life, from jumpers, hats and scarves, blankets, duvet inners & pillows to sheepskin rugs. Recently I was gifted several fleeces to work with, and I had no idea what to do with them until I found the ancient art of peg looming, which hails back to before the Vikings. When sticks were used for the loom and twine for the warp to weave raw fleece, for blankest, mats, saddle rugs etc, this technique caught my interest. It seemed the perfect match! After completing many rugs that are now out in the world, I am delighted to be able to share what I have learnt by trial and error with those who are also interested or excited at the prospect of using fleece to insulate your home with wall hangings and rugs, provide luxury to sit on for you, and your pets.

Anna Pendred

Anna is a local, living in rural Mangawhai, and has been singing in a variety of ensembles and choirs for quite some time. She has recently taken her skills a step further to lead singing groups over the last 8 or so years. She currently co-leads a group in Wellsford, and is making plans to start a new women’s ensemble in Mangawhai.

She firmly believes in the healing power of singing in community and says “Singing is something our soul deeply recognises – before anything else we learn to vocalise and express ourselves. Our souls naturally resonate together in song. It is also something we often have trauma around, we decide at some point we can’t sing, it has to look a certain way, have to have talent…etc. we develop fear and judgement around making ‘sound’ and sadly, we shut our expression down. I believe singing is our birthright, and can play an important part of healing those wounds. I love the connection that happens magically when a group of people come together to sing, the energy within each of us individually, and symbiotically as a group.

There are so many beautiful songs floating out on the ether, crafted by talented people in our world and I feel it is such a privilege to be able to ‘catch’ a few and share.” She teaches songs acapella, in a natural, call-and-response way, focussing on blending harmonies, and celebration of the voice.