Jun Castelblanco-Zheng is a musician based in Tamaki Makaurau, specialising in contemporary music from Aotearoa New Zealand. Jun finds fulfilment in bringing healing and light through music performance and in encouraging self-expression and development through creative practices.
Originally from China and having migrated to New Zealand at the age of 6, Jun began keyboard lessons while attending primary school. After years of growth and dedication, he graduated with a Bachelor of Music Degree from the University of Auckland.
Career accolades include: First Prize at the West Auckland Performing Arts Competition (2009), being awarded Llewelyn Jones Prizes for Best Composition (2024) and Best Pianist (2025), as well as receiving the Drake Medal for musicological research (2026).
Jun cherishes his time living overseas, firstly in Australia and later in Colombia, where he experienced the rhythms and sounds of an exotic and fascinating culture. He is currently pursuing a Master of Music Degree under the mentorship of Stephen De Pledge and Dr. Sarah Watkins.
“Creating is the only true antidote to death, creating gives back what death takes away. Creating is a rebellion against the futility of the quotidian, against the insult of waste. Art sees beauty everywhere, even in the fire that burned everything down.” – Nadine Anne Hura
