It’s some of New Zealand’s best poetry presented in a unique way. Maungatapu resident and internationally acclaimed composer Nigel Williams has put the words from six Kiwi poets to music for two special performances by Tauranga Civic Choir.

“They’ve been wonderful words to work with,” says Nigel.

“Matariki is our story to tell, so I wanted to make sure that my music was inclusive. That’s why it’s not just choir and piano, we also have a string quartet, a flute and two percussionists.”

Nigel says the flute imitates birds. “We live in a country of birdsong. One of the poems is a love story about a bellbird.

“Another is a piece of music that I wrote when my brother was dying. It’s four minutes of stillness and beauty. Remembering the recently departed is part of Matariki.”

Composer Nigel Williams. Photo: supplied.

One of the poets, Apirana Taylor, will be there.

“There’s a lovely line in his poem, ‘Harakeke’; ‘flax fingers weave the moonlight’. I made that the title for all eight pieces of music that I’ve written.”

The MC is head of Te Reo Māori at Tauranga Girls’ College, Carol Storey, who will explain the significance of each piece of music.

“We’re on a journey together and that’s something to celebrate,” says Nigel.

‘Flax Fingers Weave the Moonlight’ will be performed at St Peter’s Church, Spring St, Tauranga, on Saturday, July 6, at 1.30pm and again at 4pm with shared food for everyone. 

Tickets $25 each at eventbrite.co.nz Door tickets are cash only.