Classical music and kapa haka combine this week in Rotorua and Hamilton.
Opus Orchestra join with the rōpū haka, Te Mauri led by Rotorua’s Rikihana Kingi and contemporary te Reo Māori pop group Kōtahi Te Wairua for the cross-cultural collaboration ‘Te Miha’.
Kōtahi Te Wairua Photo: Supplied
The two-part concert explores the myth of Ranginui and Papatūānuku and then a Latin Mass incorporating the Reo Māori translation, composed by Stephen Small.
Small says within the mass there are recognisable phrases that classical fans will enjoy. “Structurally there are aspects of classical works that I’ve studied and enjoyed,” he says.
Composer Stephen Small Photo: Supplied
But what is most interesting is that within many traditional mass items there are few words in Latin or English. To tell the story in Te Reo Māori more words are needed. “Māori is an infinitely more poetic language and the text that has been set is extensive,” he says.
He’s taken a collaborative approach to the work and consulted with many in getting the words just right. He says that’s important. “There are performers within this programme who are deeply rooted in Maori culture who have warmly received this opportunity to present their culture in a new context,” he says. “It’s so important to have a discussion and to come in openly and transparently … and bring traditions together.
“It’s not to be fearful of the discussions but to ensure the discussion takes place.”
Opus Orchestra Photo: Supplied
Within the mass he’s also created an opportunity for other iwi around the country to add their mark to the work. “The words can be replaced with text that is relevant to that region,” he says, “and to customise it and make it their own; it’s music everyone can take part in.
“I hope we have the opportunity to move this work around the country and to see how it can be developed.”
Opus Orchestra, Kōtahi Te Wairua and Te Mauri Kapa Haka present the world première of ‘Te Miha’ at the Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts in Hamilton on Saturday 7 September, and then on Sunday 8 September at Destiny Theatre in Rotorua.
