Twelve of Auckland’s most promising young musical acts will take to the stage at The Tuning Fork on Saturday, 26 September 2026, after earning places in the 2026 New Found Sound Grand Final, with tickets now on sale for the youth-led showcase.

Run by The Y, New Found Sound provides emerging young musicians with the opportunity to perform live, develop their skills and gain valuable experience in front of audiences and industry judges. The event also gives young people opportunities to gain valuable hands-on experience behind the scenes. 

Following a series of regional heats, 12 finalists have been confirmed, together, showcasing the depth, diversity and creativity of Auckland’s emerging music scene. 

Finalists represent schools and communities from across Auckland, among them Izzy Stoner from Birkenhead College, who returns after being named Best Soloist in the 2025 competition. Friends, whānau and music lovers are encouraged to come along and support Auckland’s next generation of performers, tickets available through Moshtix.

The 2026 New Found Sound grand finalists are:

Solo & Duo Artists
Olivia Reeves (Selwyn College)
Lyra Prasad (Glen Eden Intermediate)
Izzy Stoner (Birkenhead College)
Vi Mangolia (Selwyn College)
Mångata (Howick College)
Maia + Aria (Albany Senior High School)

Bands
Incipit (Green Bay High School)
Ode to Suffering (Kaipara College)
I Thought You Meant Tuesday (Howick College)
Sounds of Polynesia (Māngere College)
Estatica (Northcote College)
Vandal (Northcote College)