February 19, 2016
Taonga puoro thank you for university
Waikato University is to receive a collection of taonga puoro carved by Brian Flintoff, who worked closely with the late Hirini Melbourne and Richard Nunns to revive traditional Maori instruments.
Associate Professor Martin Lodge from the Conservatorium of Music says it’s the first time a New Zealand university has commissioned a complete set of the instruments.
He says it will be a rich resource for future artists, student and scholars from which old traditions can grow and new ones can emerge.
Mr Flintoff says the taonga puora revival was nourished by the support given to Dr Melbourne by the University of Waikato.
The taonga puoro will be handed over on March 8 in an evening ceremony that will include performances by Horomona Horo and the New Zealand Chamber Soloists.
Copyright © 2016, UMA Broadcasting Ltd: www.waateanews.com