Split Enz Mental Notes Project – A New Generation Carries the Flame

The Split Enz Mental Notes school project has reached a milestone few could have imagined, and the results have been nothing short of extraordinary.

Recently, students had the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to sit down with Mike Chunn and Noel Crombie for interviews. Not only did Mike share his stories, he also picked up his guitar and jammed with the kids. Those sessions are being pressed onto a limited-edition vinyl, set for exclusive release at JB Hi-Fi later this year. For the students, the thought of seeing their work on shelves alongside their musical heroes is almost too good to believe.

The journey didn’t stop there. The group travelled to Roundhead Studios to gift a mural they created, and were surprised with an impromptu jam: Madeleine Kennedy and Ziggy joined none other than Neil Finn to perform a stunning version of Sweet Dreams. Watch Here

Throughout the project, the tamariki have had the privilege of interviewing Mike Chunn, Emlyn Crowther, Wally Wilkinson, and Noel Crombie. Their generosity has been humbling, with each member wrapping aroha and encouragement around the students, helping them achieve a dream few would dare to imagine.

The only thing left to top the experience? Meeting Tim Finn and the rest of the band.

In a twist of perfect timing, Split Enz have also just announced new vinyl pressings of Beginning of the Enz, Mental Notes, and Second Thoughts. The kids are counting down the days until they can hold those albums in their hands – just as Split Enz fever grips Aotearoa again, 50 years on from their groundbreaking debut.

What began as a small classroom project has grown into something unforgettable – a taonga the students will treasure for life. It’s proof of what makes this country so special: that even our biggest bands are willing to give their time to uplift and inspire the next generation of musicians and dreamers.

The project has exceeded all expectations, leaving a legacy of song, story, and connection that will continue to resonate for years to come.

Article by Lachie Holt (Kaupapa Kid)