Grounded in Creativity, Growing in Confidence
Written for Wide Sky Summer 2025
Back on campus to perform for over 700 students in assembly earlier this year, singer-songwriter and alumna Cassie Henderson (Class of 2012) spoke with warmth and insight about her musical journey, and how it all began in the music suites and drama classes of Rangi Ruru.
Cassie’s rise in the New Zealand music scene has been both steady and authentic. From her early days busking on chilly Christchurch streets to releasing her chart-topping music, touring with international acts, playing sold-out shows and more recently starring on The Voice Australia, Cassie has stayed true to her creative instincts.
“When I was at Rangi, the Contemporary Music programme was just being introduced. Before that, I’d been doing classical music and figuring things out on my own. But the new programme taught me how to write songs, record myself and understand the whole world of music creation; it was absolutely crucial for me,” she reflects.
But it wasn’t just music that shaped Cassie’s time at school: “The drama programme and our trip to the UK really helped me grow. Performing gave me this sense of purpose. Being around others who were passionate about the same things made it feel okay to care deeply about creative pursuits.”
Looking back, Cassie describes her time at Rangi Ruru as foundational, not just in skills, but in identity. “I started out a pretty normal kid, then all of a sudden, people were recognising me in the street at 14 [after appearing on The X Factor NZ]. It was a strange time. But at Rangi Ruru, I found people—students and teachers—who I trusted and who believed in me. That helped shape who I am now, as a person and as an artist.”
As for standout moments in her career? There are many. “Winning Best Pop Artist at the Aotearoa Music Awards this year felt surreal. My mum reminded me that it actually represents 10 years of hard work. That perspective was grounding. But honestly, the thing I’m proudest of is the music itself.”
Navigating the challenges of a notoriously tough industry hasn’t been easy. “You’re constantly being put in boxes, told you’re not good enough, or pressured to chase trends. And the financial side? It’s hard when you’re starting out. But I’ve always had this almost ridiculous amount of belief in myself. That’s the only thing that gets you through.”
Social media, she says, has been both a tool and a challenge. “I try to use it creatively, but I’ve learned not to treat it as a feedback loop. It can be damaging if you let it define your worth. I use it to share my work, not to measure it.”
Despite the whirlwind of releases, tours and studio time, Cassie is as grounded as ever. “People think artists live these wild lives, but honestly? Most of the time I’m just in my room writing songs. That’s humbling.”
Cassie’s advice to Rangi Ruru students interested in a music career today? “Stretch yourself. Learn as much as you can while you’re here, especially things that don’t come naturally. I wish I’d learned more about the business side of music earlier. These days, you have to be a musician and your own manager, marketer and planner too.”
Looking ahead, Cassie is excited to release the final chapter in her Chronicles of the Heart Broken EP series, The Blue Chapter, later this year. A UK tour is also on the cards, along with more summer shows around Aotearoa.
Returning to Rangi Ruru’s ever-evolving campus, Cassie is grateful. “It’s amazing to be back. So much has changed, but the spirit’s still here. This place gave me the space to grow—and I’m really proud to walk back through those doors.”
Cassie’s latest music is available on all major streaming platforms. You can follow her journey at cassiehenderson.com.