He Tapu Tō Te Wahine: The Embedding of Mātauranga Māori in Māori Composition and Performance by Wahine Māori

Abstract

This research aims to identify what impact, influences and learnings can be drawn from Māori female performance contained within the notion of ‘he tapu tō te wahine’ (the sacredness of a woman) within mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge). The research is located in the field of mātauranga Māori as it embodies a Māori worldview, kaupapa Māori (Māori approach, Māori principles) indigenous methodologies and a Māori cultural lens. The research comprises a written narrative (exegesis) and a creative component. The creative component will include a compilation of waiata (song), and haka (a vigorous dance) designed especially for a female kapa (group) choreographed by the researcher as her original contribution to knowledge. The bracket of compositions will include six disciplinary areas: Waiata Tira (choral), Whakaeke (entrance), Waiata tawhito/mōteatea (to chant), Waiata-ā-ringa (action song), Poi (a light ball on a string of varying length which is swung or twirled rhythmically to sung accompaniment), Haka Taparahi (ceremonial haka) and Whakawatea (exit).