The Drum (1996)

With the resurgence of taonga pūoro, one musical instrument remains conspicuously absent from Māori music —pahū (drum). In this documentary Te Pahū, composer Hirini Melbourne (ONZM) and ethnologist Te Warena Taua trace the history of pahū, from musical accompaniment to being the manawa (heart) of communication and communities. Musicians and carvers bring to life the lost beat of pahū by creating a version using modern techniques. Pioneering Māori filmmaker Merata Mita (Patu!) directed Te Pahū, while Rawiri Paratene (Whale Rider) co-wrote and produced it.

Released July 26, 1996 46 min 7+

Genres: Documentary

Keywords: mdblist.three-actors

Production Companies: Rangipai Productions, Ora digital

Country: New Zealand
Production Country: New Zealand
Languages: English, Maori