Maramataka

About

Maramataka explores the journey of the moon across an ever-changing night sky through the intimate instrumentation of the horn, violin and cello. I was inspired by the many nights I have spent gazing up at the gentle yet powerful moon - in all of its phases and forms - in my backyard, along with learning about the significance of the Maramataka (Māori lunar calendar) to our tangata whenua. This new composition comprises three contrasting sections, all of which are connected through a short theme that represents Matariki and the significance of new beginnings: I. Piki te Marama | The Moon Rises II. Whiro-te-tipua | Fury with the Lord of Darkness III. Marama Rangimarie | At Peace with the Moon and Sky Through writing Maramataka, I have strived to narrate moments of both my personal and traditional Māori lunar experiences. I hope listening to this composition reignites the listener with memories associated with our marama, our whetū and our maruāpō.