Anne Filimoehala Appointed New Music Director at Sistema Aotearoa
Anne Filimoehala, Music Director, Sistema Aotearoa a graduate of Auckland University School of Music, BA Hons majoring in violin performance.
Sistema Aotearoa is thrilled to announce the appointment of Lead Tutor Anne Filimoehala as its new Music Director, effective Term Four, 2025.
The Sistema Aotearoa programme is based in South Auckland and provides free, inclusive orchestral music education focused on supporting the wellbeing, confidence, and social development of tamariki and their whānau. The programme has run for fifteen years and has seen students progress from Year 2 (6 years old) to tertiary level qualifications in music and many other specialties. Anne’s leadership will continue to hold this vital space where music nurtures resilience, leadership, and community connection.
Anne’s inspiring vision, integrity, and passion for Sistema Aotearoa were key to her selection as the unanimous choice of the Board Appointment Committee from a strong field of thirteen candidates. Raised in a musical family, Anne entered the world of brass bands at the age of six and started playing violin when she was nine. In 2021, Anne graduated with a Bachelor of Music with Honours from the University of Auckland, majoring in Classical Violin Performance under the tutelage of Mark Bennett. Her diverse musical expertise spans performance, education, and conducting.
Anne is the co-founder of the WLCA Concert Series and is also an Associate Conducting Fellow having toured twice with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra Upper North Island and to Tonga. Passionate about music education and accessibility, Anne is committed to empowering communities through music-making and celebrates the growth and success of the groups she supports.
As Music Director, Anne will lead Sistema Aotearoa’s tutor team to develop and deliver a curriculum that further reflects a dedication to building lasting access and pathways in music education including creating performance opportunities for over 1,200 tamariki annually.
Anne’s Dad, Fakasi’i’eiki Filimoehala and his older brother were actively involved in brass bands in Tonga. He moved with family to New Zealand during their final years of high school and as well as learning a new language, Fakasi’I’eiki continued his musical journey by joining youth orchestras and the Salvation Army Band. After introducing his younger brothers to brass instruments, he formed his own band, which grew into a music academy. The entire family contributing to the initiative, Anne has been immersed in music from a very young age. “My family has instilled in me a deep understanding of the importance of making music accessible to everyone”, says Anne.
Filimoehala Family, left to right, William, Linda, Fakasi’i’eiki (Father), Miriam (Mother), Anne and Caroline Filimoehala
Sistema Aotearoa also warmly acknowledges the phenomenal contributions of outgoing Music Director Sarah Spence, who is dividing her time between Scotland and New Zealand. Sarah’s leadership has brought dynamic curriculum development and tutor team leadership, enriching this programme with her passion for music education and life skills development.
General Manager of the organisation, Iain Rea, thinks Sistema Aotearoa is inspired by Filimoehala’s appointment. Anne’s appointment, coupled with that of an engaged and representative Board, "make it an exciting time for Sistema Aotearoa. I’m looking forward to the goals Anne is setting for the school.”
For Sistema Aotearoa, announcements such as these are only made possible thanks to the generosity of funders like Creative New Zealand, Freemasons Foundation, Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board, Foundation North, MusicHelps, Four Winds Foundation, Pub Charity, New Zealand Community Trust, Simplicity and many generous private donors.
With a tight arts and education funding environment presenting new challenges, Sistema Aotearoa remains confident and committed to continue transforming lives through the power of orchestral music, under Anne’s leadership to guide its bright future.
Playing in the Royal Regiment of the NZ Artillery, Anne Filimoehala (left), Caroline (sister), Fakasi’i’eiki, (father) William (brother), Linda (sister)
