Unity Week Concert - Celebrating Diversity

Music knows no boundaries. It transcends language, culture, and borders, weaving its way into the very fabric of our existence.
Mothers sing lullabies with children cradled in their arms in every culture, songs and dance mark passages of life throughout the world, sharing music is universal

The concert honours the importance of music and culture, sharing music and culture gives us a greater appreciation of diversity.
We honour the diverse sounds and rhythms that form the tapestry of world music, connecting people across the globe in a harmonious symphony. Following the tangata whenua tradition, Maori open and close the concert, creating a special atmosphere for a variety of performers offering their traditional taonga

With:
Musica Balkanica
Musica Balkanica is an amateur “a cappella” choir, formed in 2004 by enthusiastic singers from the Balkan region and New Zealand. Our primary aim is to celebrate and "spread the joy" of the wonderful and large musical heritage of this region, in both sacred and folk genres
The sacred pieces, from Eastern Orthodox tradition date from Byzantine times to last century. The folk songs cover the whole range from wistful love-songs and patriotic laments to drinking songs and frantic village dances

Haka Roopu
Although haka was traditionally created and performed for battle to dissuade or threaten the enemy, it has evolved over time to serve many purposes. It now symbolizes community, acceptance, inclusivity, purpose, and mana, bringing different expressions of communities together.
Haka is not exclusive to Māori, anyone is welcome to perform haka, provided it is done with the seriousness and respect it deserves, and the performers understand its meaning and significance
The ASA Haka Roopu began in May/June 2023, started with a small group of tāne Māori keen to learn, teach, support one another, and perform haka, which inspired its name. Since then, it has grown to include waiata, Māori games, group discussions, ex-residents, community involvement, and the integration of TSA social service centres, creating a dynamic and inclusive space. While we follow a standard structure for the sessions, they are guided by the wairua, making each session unique
Haka can be performed for various kaupapa, such as supporting graduations, local events, memorial services, at Recovery Church, or when showing respect and solidarity towards special guests

Yujing and Ariel
Yujing and Ariel a mother-daughter duo bringing something unique and fun! We blend Chinese and Western folk music in a way that’s about sharing stories and connecting with people
We perform featuring the pipa (a beautiful Chinese stringed instrument) and guitar. We sing in harmony and love mixing things up with both Chinese and Western styles

Women in Harmony
Women in Harmony is a fun, dynamic choir singing music from all over the world
We are a women’s choir from all ages and walks of life who come together to share our love of music through singing. We sing a variety of world, folk and popular music in 3 part harmony. No previous choir experience is needed, nor is the ability to read music. Our rehearsals are relaxed, friendly and fun and new members are welcome

Bidibids
Since 2021, the Bidibids have become regulars in the Wellington folk scene. With Sarah August on banjo and guitar, Simon Carryer on cello-banjo, and Brendan Schenk on mandolin and guitar, they are steeped in bluegrass and Americana, but inspired by the idea of creating an authentic home-grown folk sound

Muddy Mama’s Trio
This trio features the vocals of front-woman Judi Smitheram, keyboard extraordinaire Mary Ruston and the security of the reliable bass rhythm of Tim Wilkinson. We really enjoy playing together, it is truly a pleasure to share our joy of music.

We have a song re the vulnerability of life, one of hope that with positivity we can change perspectives as well as an anthem, a powerhouse call for equality.