The most fierce drummers to emerge from the Pacific are undoubtedly the Cook Islanders. Melbourne-based Te Tangi O Te Ka'ara, led by Tieni Abela, brings together the Northern and Southern styles of the 15 islands and atolls. Comprising descendants of the original masters of the Pate log drum, Polynesian ukulele, tribal chants and dancers, the collective’s speed, precision and sheer joy onstage is incomparable.
Workshop:
The name Ka'ara is the name of the most ancient drum in Polynesia. A sacred ritualistic drum that is now rarely seen or performed. The modern version of the Ka'ara is the Pate, which originated in the Cook Islands before migrating throughout Polynesia. Cook Islands drumming and dance is now one of the most popular and exciting forms of entertainment in the Pacific. The swaying hips and legs have become an iconic dance known throughout the region. This workshop will teach the audience the famous Cook Island dance and demonstrate the techniques for the hyper speed swinging of the hips and drumming techniques.
Annual drumming competitions in the Cook Islands are fiercely competitive and each year the best of the best compete for the prestigious title of the best drumming group in the Cook Islands. There are two distinct styles of drumming in the Cook Islands; the Northern style and the Southern style. Te Tangi O Te Ka'ara will demonstrate both and tell the fascinating story of log drums in Polynesia, from the ancient Ka'ara drum to the modern Pate.