(Picture caption: The inaugural Musika Moana Choir Competition aims to showcase Pacific unity through music.)
The inaugural Musika Moana Choir Competition is not only set to showcase the richness of Pacific culture, but the unity of Pacific peoples through the enjoyment of music.
Organised by Pacificast and Signature Tautai Trust, competitions will run in Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch throughout September, and will feature esteemed judges from around the country, renowned for their expertise in Pacific music.
The new competition follows the resounding success of the Mana Moana event, featuring Signature Choir and the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra in 2023.
It offers the unique chance for Pacific community choirs from across Aotearoa New Zealand to showcase their talent in some of the country’s most prestigious venues.
Event spokesperson Helen Tupai says the new event celebrates Pacific peoples’ love of singing and its power to make a difference.
“This competition is not only about showcasing our amazing Pasifika choirs, but also to highlight the strength of our communities, the richness of our Pasifika culture and the unity we enjoy through music,” Helen says.
Choirs will be assessed across several categories, including vocal performance, musicality, and creativity.
To elevate its impact on the community, the Musika Moana Choir Competition is offering prizes from a total pool of $100,000.
This is to recognise and reward the dedication and talent of the top choirs, with the intention prize money will go towards initiatives and projects which contribute to the betterment of that community.
The Musika Moana Choir Competition invites Pacific choirs from across New Zealand to join in this celebration of music, culture, and community.
Each choir will be required to perform two songs: the competition song composed by Helen Tupai (who is also a renowned choir director and composer); and a song of their choice.
All songs will be sung in a Pacific language of the choir’s choosing.
Musika Moana Choir Competition events will be staged in Wellington on 7 September, in Auckland on 21 September, and Christchurch on 28 September.
Visit the Musika Moana Choir Competition website for more information on how to enter or attend events.