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What if modern popular music is far more sophisticated than it sounds?We often think of popular music as simpler than classical or traditionally “serious” music. But beneath the catchy melodies and familiar sounds, today's music can contain layers of complexity that are easy to miss.
Join Godfrey De Grut for a fascinating exploration of the hidden complexity of modern popular music — and discover how contemporary musicians are rewriting the rules of musical sophistication.
From harmony and notation to production, rhythm, songwriting and musical form, this session will unpack some of the techniques that make modern music more sophisticated than it might first appear.
Godfrey will explore how genre hybridisation, listener cognition and new musical techniques are changing the way music is created and experienced — and how these developments can enhance our engagement as listeners.
This is an invitation to listen differently.
You don't need to be a musician or have any formal musical training. Come curious, bring your ears and discover what might be hiding beneath the surface of the music you hear every day.
Meet Godfrey De Grut
Godfrey De Grut is an award-winning New Zealand musician, composer and educator with a distinguished career spanning performance, songwriting and music education.
He is best known as a keyboardist and arranger, and as a convener of the prestigious APRA Silver Scroll for the Songwriting Frequencies.
Over the course of his career, Godfrey has performed and toured internationally, collaborated with leading artists, and contributed to a wide range of musical projects across genres.
Alongside his work as a performer, Godfrey is a Professional Teaching Fellow in popular music at the University of Auckland, where he mentors emerging musicians and shares his deep industry experience with the next generation.
An accomplished songwriter and educator, he brings a unique blend of real-world insight and creative expertise to his teaching engagements, inspiring audiences with perspectives on music, creativity and the evolving landscape of the industry.
What We'll Explore
• Why modern popular music is often more complex than it first appears
• The hidden layers within contemporary songwriting and production
• Harmony, form, rhythm and musical notation
• How genre hybridisation is reshaping modern music
• The relationship between music and listener cognition
• New techniques being used by contemporary musicians
• How musical sophistication can enhance listener engagement
• How today's music is rewriting traditional ideas about musical complexity
• Ways to listen to familiar music with fresh ears
📍 Location: Symphonia Music Hall, Freemans Bay, Auckland
📅 Date: Wednesday 28 October 2026
🕙 Time: 10:00am–12:00pm
☕ Refreshments: Tea and coffee included
🎟️ Tickets: $55 per person
👥 Hosted by Love Heart
In-person learning experiences for curious people who enjoy discovering new ideas, hearing from deep experts and sharing the conversation with others.
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Event venue
Symphonia Music, 57-59 Wellington Street, Freemans Bay,Auckland, New Zealand
Tickets
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