Caleb's story

Caleb Haapu – Lead Guitarist and Vocalist (Sons of Zion) 

Graduate - Music

“All the skills I learnt at Whitireia helped me throughout my career, even up till now”

Hear more from Caleb

The first time Caleb picked up a guitar, he was only eleven. A friend at school let him have a go on his guitar and from that moment, he knew it was his passion. 

Now, Caleb is the lead guitarist and vocalist for well-known Kiwi band Sons of Zion, who’ve produced multiple popular albums and chart-topping singles. 

Caleb’s been surrounded by music ever since he was a kid, but it wasn’t until he studied at Whitireia that he was really able to hone his skills. He learned how to read and write music, the theory behind it, how to record and produce music, and advance his technical playing abilities both on and off the stage.  

It was Caleb's first band that got him into the limelight initially. L40 toured all over New Zealand, a band made up of Caleb's friends and family from his hometown, Rātana Pā. It gave Caleb the opportunity to meet musicians from all over the country – and is what led him to the opportunity of a lifetime – a job with Katchafire.  

“To stand on stage with them, playing alongside them, it was a dream come true for me” 

After that came Sons of Zion – Caleb's biggest gig yet. Their tours take them not just across New Zealand, but Australia and America too. Caleb’s grateful that his music lets him see the world. His favourite part is standing on stage, playing to their fans, and seeing them sing along.  

To this day, Caleb is still using the skills he learnt at Whitireia. He uses the same music software, and still incorporates song writing techniques he learnt.  

Caleb’s achieved a lot in his time, but he’s not done with music yet. He’s got his sights set on the Grammys – so keep an eye (or an ear) out.  

Study Music at Whitireia

Take your musical skills to the next level. Our facilities include recording studios, digi labs, music production suites, fully equipped DJ booths and more. Learn from supportive tutors with years of industry experience. 

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