March 31st, 2025
Te Pae Tai Nui Te Mire Atu - Song Composers Competition 2025
Friday March the 14th was a stunning evening for Cook Islands music and culture as we all enjoyed the prestigious Tauranga Vananga Ministry of Cultural Development Te Pae Tai Nui Mire Atu original Māori song composers competition.
Te Pae Tai Nui Te Mire Atu is an esteemed annual song composers' competition sponsored by the Edgewater Resort in Rarotonga, celebrates the rich musical heritage and creative talents of Cook Islands musicians, composers and performers. Held at the National Auditorium, this event showcases original compositions that blend traditional Polynesian music with contemporary influences.
The Te Mire Atu competition has long been a cornerstone of Cook Islands culture and a much loved annual event on the calendar as it provides a platform for composers to present their original Māori songs. In recent years, the event has embraced international participation, inviting composers from across the Pacific and beyond to contribute. This sharing of ideas has enriched the diversity of musical expressions showcased and helped build relationships for future musical collaboration and development of Cook Islands talent.
The competition features a diverse range of categories, including traditional chants, drumming, and dances, as well as modern compositions that incorporate elements of Western music. This eclectic mix reflects the dynamic nature of Cook Islands music, which continues to evolve while staying true to its roots. With Youtube and Spotify providing access to music from around the world, and many Cook Islanders with family in Australia and New Zealand, there are a wide range of musical influences mixing with traditional Cook Island themes.
Participation is open to both established and emerging Cook Islands composers, including those residing overseas. This year's competition featured 16 composers, among them previous champions and returning artists such as Thomas Peyroux and Teata Hauavaine Nga-Moeara. This inclusive approach fosters a sense of unity and collaboration among artists, enriching the cultural tapestry of the Cook Islands.
This year the Te Mire Atu 2025 champion was Thomas Peyroux (a former winner) whose gospel song took the judges' breath away when it was sung by Ephraim Taokia with backing singers Engara Gosselin and Tina Koronui-Herman.
The Te Mire Atu competition not only honours traditional Polynesian music but also fosters the growth of contemporary compositions, making it a unique and vital platform for artists across the region. By providing a stage for both traditional and modern musical expressions, the event plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting the cultural identity of the Cook Islands by both respecting the past and creatively embracing the future.