Waiata (why-ar-tar) the Māori word used to describe song/s, have always featured in Māori culture. They are instrumental not only in expressing feelings or views of the singer and/or composer but also in reflecting the issues of their time; including the transmission of genealogy and history.
In hui, powhiri and or other social gatherings, waiata are used to:
- Endorse or 'kīnaki (key-nah-key)' - 'add relish' to the speakers topic
- Add the 'voices of old' sorrow to the loss of a loved one
- Recite whakapapa that enriches whanaungatanga (far-no-ng-ah-tongue-ah) links
- Remember past journeys, battles, marriages, unions and history that connect tribes, each to the other
- Express the anger, wrath or victorious slants to wrongs that were done; reminding both the listener and performer that these slights and consequences, whilst forgiven, are not forgotten
- Tell of great love stories over generations of time, in a poetic language worthy of any 'civilised culture'
- Recite paths to travel on journey's both here in the physical world and those of the after-life
In short, waiata at hui melodically express every aspect, event, era and emotion of human existence!
This song 'Born of Greatness' was written by Hohepa Tamehana. He composed it for for the Manu-ti-oriori Show, a Māori 'Pop Idol' type programme established in 2001. For the words and more history on both the song and the composer, click here.
