The Modern Maori Quartet

The Modern Maori Quartet met when they sang and played together at garage parties where they enjoyed it so much they decided to put on a suit and try their luck in other venues. I, like the rest of the audience am very glad they did.

They have an engaging and open approach with their audience and a tight musical sound. The quartet mixes Maori language songs with classic numbers and some great crooning numbers. 

The group presented a number of songs written by different members. My favourite was the one dedicated to strong Maori women who get to go to the twelfth heaven. Celebrating and commemorating the Maori soldiers’ contribution to the First and Second World War and both sharp in style and evocative of the era, there was a medley of wartime songs that had been performed at the Gala opening of the Cabaret Festival. Another medley was based on classic Elvis songs where ‘Boulder’ seemed to channel Presley. And the Aroha or Love medley was fabulous.

The guys were having fun and so did the audience. The quality of the voices reminded the audience that New Zealand is the homeland of Teddy Tahu Rhodes and Kiri Te Kanawa and Lorde. And not only could they sing but they could all play guitar as well.

Yet another full house and happy audience means The Modern Maori Quartet will be sharing their love of The Maori culture and singing for a long time to come. 

I’d certainly pick them to play at my garage party.

Sally Putnam

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