Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, an internationally renowned opera singer, has received recognition from Creative New Zealand’s Maori Arts Board, Te Waka Toi, at a Wellington ceremony.
After her debut as the countess in Le Nozze di Figaro at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, in 1971, she became a much sought after singer. Her national and international career as an operatic and classical soprano has been an inspiration to many artists.
Te Waka Toi chair Darrin Haimona said in a press release the new award paid tribute to Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu, the late Maori Queen it was named for.
“It is fitting that the inaugural presentation made tonight by her son, Te Arikinui Kingi Tuheitia, is to another Maori dame with exceptional mana.”
Dame Kiri who accepted the award from England, acknowledged her parents for their support which enabled her to follow the life and career she had enjoyed.
“My mother told me 60 years ago that it was the Maori part of me which would be important,” said Kiri. “My father, Thomas Te Kanawa, would have been very proud indeed if he had known about my Te Waka Toi award.”
After her debut as the countess in Le Nozze di Figaro at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, in 1971, she became a much sought after singer. Her national and international career as an operatic and classical soprano has been an inspiration to many artists.
Te Waka Toi chair Darrin Haimona said in a press release the new award paid tribute to Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu, the late Maori Queen it was named for.
“It is fitting that the inaugural presentation made tonight by her son, Te Arikinui Kingi Tuheitia, is to another Maori dame with exceptional mana.”
Dame Kiri who accepted the award from England, acknowledged her parents for their support which enabled her to follow the life and career she had enjoyed.
“My mother told me 60 years ago that it was the Maori part of me which would be important,” said Kiri. “My father, Thomas Te Kanawa, would have been very proud indeed if he had known about my Te Waka Toi award.”
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