Role

:

Ensemble

Country

:

New Zealand

 

Waihirere Maori Group is a classical music ensemble that has been entertaining audiences with their unique blend of traditional Maori music and contemporary classical music for over 50 years. The group was founded in 1961 by a group of young Maori musicians who were passionate about preserving and promoting their cultural heritage through music. The founding members of the group included Tama Huata, who served as the group's musical director for many years, and his wife, Kura, who was a talented singer and dancer. Other founding members included musicians and dancers from the local community who shared the group's vision of celebrating Maori culture through music. From the beginning, Waihirere Maori Group was committed to showcasing the beauty and complexity of Maori music and dance. They drew inspiration from traditional Maori songs and dances, as well as from contemporary classical music and other musical genres. Over the years, the group has grown and evolved, but their commitment to celebrating Maori culture has remained constant. Today, Waihirere Maori Group is made up of a talented and diverse group of musicians and dancers who continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in Maori music and dance. One of the highlights of the group's long and illustrious career was their performance at the 1974 Commonwealth Games in Christchurch, New Zealand. The group's performance was a stunning display of Maori culture, featuring traditional songs and dances that showcased the group's incredible talent and skill. In addition to their performance at the Commonwealth Games, Waihirere Maori Group has also performed at a number of other major events and festivals over the years. They have performed at the New Zealand International Arts Festival, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and the World Expo in Brisbane, Australia, among many others. The group has also received numerous awards and accolades for their contributions to Maori music and culture. In 2002, they were awarded the Te Tohu Mahi Hou a Te Waka Toi award, which recognizes outstanding contributions to Maori arts and culture. They have also been recognized by the New Zealand Arts Foundation and the New Zealand Order of Merit. Despite their many achievements, Waihirere Maori Group remains committed to their mission of celebrating and promoting Maori culture through music. They continue to perform and record new music, and they are always looking for new ways to push the boundaries of what is possible in Maori music and dance. In conclusion, Waihirere Maori Group is a truly remarkable ensemble that has made an indelible mark on the world of classical music. Their commitment to celebrating and promoting Maori culture through music has inspired countless people around the world, and their talent and skill have earned them numerous awards and accolades. We can only hope that they will continue to share their incredible music with audiences for many years to come.

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