Maori quartet shine in inspired show
Traditionally, summer is the time that orchestras explore the lighter sides of their repertoire and this year our symphony orchestra has embarked on a national tour featuring the Modern Maori Quartet.
Together they bring to the concert platform the culture of the garage party, so central to New Zealand tradition. In realisation, the evening saw the orchestra playing a largely supporting role as the quartet, consisting of James Tito, Maaka Pohatu, Matariki Whatarau and Francis Kora, took centre stage.
They played due homage to their musical and cultural
backgrounds, exploring life and loves both won and lost, while all the while presenting waiata that were largely written by the members of the quartet themselves.
This quartet deserves the reputation that they are gaining internationally, with their obvious musicianship always to the fore.
Their work was greatly enhanced by the orchestra who amplified the intricacies of the music with some superb arrangements – although the orchestra seemed a little lost in the mix.
The idea of the NZSO touring with the Modern Maori Quartet was indeed inspired, even though the structure and formalities of the evening seemed to prevent the party reaching the giddy heights possible from this combination.
However, there was much to savour and admire throughout the evening ensuring this is an idea definitely worth further exploration.