Ko te ara pūoro, he ihi reo, he wehi oro, he wana ora.
Jo'el Komene
Ngā Puhi, Tapuika, Tainui
Jo’el Komene, a multi-talented individual, is a renowned carver, musician, and educator with whakapapa to the tribes of Ngā Puhi, Tapuika, and Tainui. With his exceptional skills and deep cultural knowledge, Jo’el has gained recognition not only within his community but also on an international level. His expertise lies in the art of taonga pūoro, traditional Māori musical instruments, which he carves and plays with great mastery.
While Jo’el’s performances captivate audiences worldwide, his true passion lies in preserving and promoting the survival of taonga pūoro. Recognising the importance of these instruments as cultural treasures, he dedicates himself to educating others about their significance and the traditional practices associated with them. Jo’el’s ground-level focus ensures that the art of taonga pūoro continues to thrive, passing on this invaluable knowledge to future generations. Through his work as an educator, he imparts the wisdom and techniques required to create and play these instruments, ensuring their legacy endures.
Jo’el Komene’s journey as a carver, musician, and educator has not only brought him personal success but has also contributed to the preservation and celebration of Māori culture. His performances and dedication to the survival of taonga pūoro have made him a respected figure both at home and abroad, leaving an indelible mark on the world of taonga pūoro.
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