MAORI CONCERT

Evening Star, Issue 21093, 4 May 1932, Page 5

MAORI CONCERT

Lovers of Maori music at Port Chalmers who attended the concert held in the Town Hall last evening were offered a rare treat, as evidenced by the applause spoutaueously and heartily given. The Bev. A. J. Seamer is to be congratulated upon his success in placing before the public such a well-bal-anced and well-trained choir. The announcement “ the best ever ” is not an exaggeration. The performers represent the various Maori tribes, including Otago and Southland. The mayor, Mr J. Watson, in a few words welcomed the visitors.

The proceedings were opened by the Chief Te Abo-o-te llangi Piliama and his party in Polynesian style. Tbe programme consisted of Waiatas, Maori songs, instrumental music, poi dances, and hakas. Special mention must be mad© of a typical Polynesian trio, in which Mrs Airini Wcreta (Chatham Islands) took a leading part. She also appeared to perfection in her rendering of ‘ Annie Laurie.’ An exhibition of poi dancing, in which the chief's daughter and Miss Rang! Tawhai took an active part, was excellent. The choir is to be complimented upon its efficiency, a distinguishing feature being evenness and sweetness of tone.

A picturesque personality is the chief, who is a direct descendant from Hoturoa, who brought the ancestors of the Waikato tribes to New Zealand in the Tainui canoe. Ho is also a close relative of the Maori king. Miss Mori Krihana (Ellison), of Otnkou, is also with the party. She leaves shortly to take up Iter duties as a deaconess in the North Island. The party is announced for a concert in the Town Hall Concert Chamber, Dunedin, this evening.