Introducing the Forsyth Barr concert Celebrating Matariki – Whakanuia Matariki : Ariana Tikao

Manaaki relates to the concept of manaakitaka, the responsibility of hosts to look after guests, and make them feel well and acknowledged. It is also a reminder for us all to care for our community's most vulnerable members.

Phil Brownlee and I composed Manaaki together, using the structure of the pōwhiri as a framework.

The low fluttery sound of the pūrerehua at the beginnig represents the change in atmosphere in the moments prior to the commencement of the pōwhiri. The strings join in and we move into the section symbolising wāhine and reo karaka, and a call and response occurs between small pūtōrino and higher sounds on the strings. We then move into the taki, where we call on the presence of the ancestors, and acknowledge recent losses. Here, the large pūtōrino develops in conversation with the viola, and again in the whaikōrero section where the cello is featured. After this, the hoki, or sharing of breath, is represented by the hue puruhau and some lighter sounds on the strings. We close with a freer and more joyous section, which emulates the sounds at the end of the pōwhiri, of people chatting and laughing.

Phil and I wrote the piece for other taoka pūoro players to play (who are not also singers), so it is purely instrumental. I am looking forward to playing the piece with members of the Dunedin Symphony Orchestra for the Matariki-themed concert. It is such an appropriate time of year to gather to remember our loved ones who have passed away, but also to lay down our hopes and dreams for the new year ahead.