Hirini Melbourne Photo: University of Waikato
Dr Hirini Melbourne of Ngāi Tūhoe and Ngāti Kahungunu was a significant leader in the revival of Māori culture through his waiata and use of taonga pūoro .
Six programmes presented by Paul Diamond tell the story of Hirini Melbourne's life and work.
Hirini Melbourne composed exclusively in Maori, reflecting his upbringing in a Maori speaking world in the Ruatoki Valley where the only people who spoke English were the school teacher and the shop keeper, and children had to translate for their elders.
As well as composing and performing music, Hirini Melbourne was involved with many other activities. During his time at Waikato University he became Dean of the school of Mäori and Pacific Development. Hirini translated books into Maori, and his Maori language books were also translated into English. He was also a member of the New Zealand Film Commission and other arts organisations.
Further Episodes:
Music Details for Part 1:
MELBOURNE Ngā Tamariki o te Kohu, from Te Wao Nui a Tāne - Huia CD001
MELBOURNE Poaka Kunekune – Sound Archives/ Ngā Taonga Korero
MELBOURNE Kōrero Māori E, from He Waiata ma te Katoa - MED 782.4207
MELBOURNE Weri, from Te Aitanga a Tāne - Replay Radio RR118
MELBOURNE Kōrero Māori, from Ruatoki Children sing... - Replay Radio RR515
MELBOURNE Maungapōhatu -RNZ
MELBOURNE Uira – Sound Archives/ Ngā Taonga Korero
MELBOURNE Hinemoana, from Toiapiapi - Titi Tangiao TT 001
NUNNS Kōau, from Te Ku Te Whe - Rattle RATCD 004
MELBOURNE Tumatakōkiri, from Te Ku Te Whe - Rattle RATCD 004
MELBOURNE E Rere te Manu, from Te Kuraroa - Kia Ata Mai CD 001
MELBOURNE Te Kōrero o te Kōhatu II, from Te Hekenga ā Rangi - Rattle RAT 010
