Tuwhare , the CD
Toi Maori has invited musician Charlotte Yates to produce a compilation album of Hone Tuwhare's poems set to contemporary original music written by Aotearoa's leading recording artists.
Hone Tuwhare (Ngati Korokoro, Ngati Tuatahi, Te Potopoto) is the first Maori poet to have published his work in English, with 'No Ordinary Sun' published in 1964. His writing has been celebrated with numerous accolades ranging from an honorary doctorate, courtesy of the University of Otago, to receiving one of the inaugural Prime Minister's Awards for Literary Achievement in 2003. Hone Tuwhare is among ten of New Zealand's greatest living artists and was named as an Arts Foundation of New Zealand Icon Artist in 2003.
Charlotte Yates previously produced Baxter, a compilation album of James K. Baxter's poetry set to contemporary music, which was released in 2000.
The CD 'Tuwhare' will be released to coincide with Toi Maori's new initiative, the Maori Market, a celebration of the finest work in contemporary Maori art to be held at the Events Centre, Wellington in August 2005. A concert featuring compositions from 'Tuwhare' will be a highlight.
Tuwhare will be recorded at Radio New Zealand's Helen Young Studio in Auckland throughout 2004 and will be released on Universal Music.
"Hone Tuwhare is a living treasure and Toi Maori Aotearoa is privileged to be honouring him with the development of this CD, featuring his poetry set to music by some of our most talented Maori and Pakeha singer-songwriters".
Waana Davis, Chairperson, Toi Maori Aotearoa
"He pukenga a Hone Tuwhare. No te toi o nga rangi ana kupu whakarei. Hei ahuru i te wairua me te hinengaro o te tangata."
Derek Lardelli, Te Uhi a Mataora / Toi Maori Aotearoa
This exciting new project was announced to coincide with Montana Poetry Day 2004. Hone Tuwhare's involvement with Montana Poetry Day and the Montana New Zealand Book Awards is long-standing. He won the Poetry category of the Awards in 2002 with his collection, Piggy-back Moon and has often been involved with events on this, New Zealand's national day for celebrating home-grown poetry.
This is now the complete list of artists that will be composing/recording tracks for 'Tuwhare.' Please click on the artist name to link through to the respective website.
Hinemoana Baker
Whirimako Black
Graham Brazier
Goldenhorse
Dean Hapeta
Hone Hurihanganui
Don McGlashan
strawpeople
Dallas Tamaira
Mahinarangi Tocker
Wai
Charlotte Yates