Two cultures share much

The seven musicians who converse in Motu :: Oilein. Photo: FINN O'CONNOR

Fresh from a sell-out performance at a Celtic festival in Glasgow, Motu :: Oileáin, which translates to "islands" in te reo and Irish, explores the musical connections between the two cultures - which are more numerous than you might think.

The project began last November when four of Ireland's most celebrated musicians collaborated with platinum-selling trio Trinity Roots, resulting in music described as a "contemporary conversation" that nevertheless looks to the strong traditions of both cultures.

The performers' respective histories of love, war, oppression, politics and protest reveal a deep bond that generates tribal chants married with fragile harmony and evocative melodies with hypnotic grooves.

"The soul connection we share with the Trinity guys has its roots in music, but it turns out we share much more," says Irish singer Pauline Scanlon. "Humour, history, indigenous language and culture but, above all, rebel hearts."

All four Irish musicians have international reputations. Alan Doherty was the flute soloist on The Lord of the Rings soundtrack, while fiddler Tola Custy is one of Ireland's leading composers and session musicians.

Gerry Paul, born in Ireland and raised in New Zealand, was the prime mover behind the project.

"I feel a strong affinity with both cultures and while I have been playing Irish music around the world for 15 years, I have always wanted to learn more about the Maori side," he says.

"Motu :: Oileáin is a celebration of two distinctly diverse and rich cultures sharing a common dialogue. People and music."

Motu :: Oileáin is at Baycourt on October 26 (Labour Day) at 8pm. Tickets are available from Baycourt or ticketek.co.nz with a TECT cardholder discount until October 7 (conditions apply).