Bringing Stories to Life with Taonga Pūoro
In November 2024, a quiet studio in the heart of Kirikiriroa (Hamilton) transformed into a hub of creativity, where storytelling and sound fused to create something truly extraordinary. The Haumanu Collective, in collaboration with renowned local taonga pūoro practitioners, brought Hineraukatauri me te Ara Pūoro to life with an enchanting soundtrack recorded at Wintec Studios.
This audio project, designed to complement the book’s narrative, is more than just a recording – it’s an immersive journey into the sounds and spirit of Aotearoa.
The Studio Session
The recording took place in the state-of-the-art facilities at Wintec Studios, where the acoustics and equipment provided the perfect canvas for capturing the delicate tones of taonga pūoro. Under the guidance of expert sound engineers, local practitioners carefully played instruments like the pūtōrino, kōauau, and pūrerehua, imbuing the recording with a rich, authentic soundscape.
Each instrument was chosen for its unique voice and ability to weave seamlessly into the story of Hineraukatauri. The haunting, melodic call of the kōauau echoed Hineraukatauri’s journey, while the pūtōrino’s deep, resonant tones grounded the narrative in the whenua.
The Voice of the Story
Narrating this tale is none other than Elizabeth Gray, the author of Hineraukatauri me te Ara Pūoro. Libby, as she is warmly known, poured her heart into this recording, lending her voice to the words she crafted so carefully.
Her narration, recorded separately, was later blended with the taonga pūoro soundtrack, creating a harmonious interplay between word and sound. The result is an auditory experience that transports listeners into the mystical landscapes of Aotearoa, bringing to life the courage and spirit of Hineraukatauri’s journey.
Cultural Collaboration and Craftsmanship
What sets this project apart is the deep cultural resonance embedded in every sound. The taonga pūoro practitioners, steeped in tikanga Māori and the traditions of their craft, brought not just technical skill but also spiritual intent to their performances. This kaupapa reflects Haumanu Collective’s commitment to ensuring that every project we undertake amplifies the voices of Māori culture and connects whānau to the taonga of our ancestors.
Why It Matters
The soundtrack for Hineraukatauri me te Ara Pūoro is more than an accompaniment – it’s a taonga in its own right. By combining the power of taonga pūoro with the spoken word, this project offers a uniquely Māori storytelling experience that resonates with people of all ages.
For those who have the book, the QR code inside unlocks this immersive audio, allowing readers to experience the story as it was meant to be heard – accompanied by the soulful sounds of taonga pūoro.
What’s Next?
With the soundtrack completed, we’re excited to officially launch it alongside the book this Christmas. Stay tuned for more updates, including sneak peeks of the audio and behind-the-scenes footage of the recording process.
For now, take a moment to imagine the blend of story and sound – the whisper of a kōauau, the rise of Libby Gray’s voice, and the depth of meaning carried by every note of taonga pūoro.
Discover the Soundtrack
Whether you’ve read Hineraukatauri me te Ara Pūoro before or are just discovering it, this soundtrack adds an entirely new dimension to the story. Be sure to order your copy and scan the QR code and prepare to unlock the full experience.
As the taonga pūoro practitioners might say, “He oro, he wairua – Sound is spirit.”
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