The distance between our earth and the stars can be measured by listening to the frequency that each star emits. In this brand-new work, composer, poet, cellist and taonga pūoro practitioner Ruby Solly (Kāi Tahu, Waitaha, Kāti Māmoe) will convert the frequencies emitted by stars into musical notes.

Alongside her work in music therapy and writing, Ruby has performed with Trinity Roots, Al Fraser, Ariana Tikao, Whirimako Black and in the Bach Project with Yo-Yo Ma. Her 2020 debut album Pōneke has been praised for its “sense of getting back to nature” (Nick Hudson, The Progressive Aspect) and “ear for the evocative” (Graham Reid, Elsewhere).

Commissioned by the Wellington Jazz Festival, Te Karanga o ngā Whetu will focus on stars that have significance within pūrākau Māori (Māori myths and legends), including Rehua, the star that taught birds, and in turn people, to speak. This suite will explore how mātauranga (wisdom) and pūrākau are passed down through music and chants, and delve into the link between Māori kōrero tuku iho (oral traditions) and jazz, another medium designed to pass on knowledge.

Working with her group Tararua, consisting of taonga pūoro practitioners Alistair Fraser and Ariana Tikao and double bassist Phil Boniface, with guests Rosie Langabeer on piano, Riki Gooch on drums and Gerard Crewson on trombone/euphonium, this fresh multi-dimensional work will present ancient knowledge for the mind, body and wairua.

STAGGERED RELEASE TICKETS
As a safeguard in a Covid world, tickets for the Wellington Jazz Festival St Peter’s Series will be released in three stages.

First Release
First Release tickets will be valid for the advertised time in Covid Levels 1 and 2.

*Second Release
Second Release tickets will be made available as capacity demands.
If Wellington is in Covid Alert Level 2 during the Festival, a second performance will be added to comply
with restrictions on mass gatherings. Under Level 2, Second Release tickets holders will view the show at
an earlier timeslot (TBC). If this is the case, all ticket holders will be contacted with further details.

**Third Release
Third Release tickets will be made available as capacity demands.
If Wellington is in Covid Alert Level 2 during the Festival, these tickets will be refunded. Please note that
booking fees are non-refundable. All ticket holders will be contacted with further details.

We appreciate your understanding that we need to be flexible in this environment.

Part of Wellington Jazz Festival

Te Karanga o ngā Whetū by Ruby Solly

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