A MAORI EVENSONG

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 4, Issue 167, 13 October 1941, Page 3

A MAORI EVENSONG

(N.Z.E.F. Official Mews Service) CAIRO, Sept. 16. Rich "Maori voices wore heard in St. Mary's Pro-Cathedral at the Sunday Evensong when a choir from a New Zealand training unit san4j the hymn "Alio E, Ihu Tirohia." Solemnity was added to the service as the melodious Maori words rolled through the huge cathedral, making a deep impression on the congregation of soldiers from all parts ol the Empire and English residents ol Cairo. Following the Church service the Maori party under 2/Lieut. Hameora entertained with songs and hymns in the Parish Hall. To convey an idea of Maori customs, a scene of welcome was enacted. The party was divided into two, one half being the host and the other the guests. After chants and a liaka had been given and the two "chiefs" had pressed noses, tribal games were demonstrated. An action song dedicated to the Maori boys who came to this country during the last war and several English songs of this war was sung. Two further hymns presented were "E! Ihu Toku Oranga" and "Tama Ngakau Marie."

Soldiers and nurses from England, South Africa and Australia showed their appreciation of the programme by prolonged applause. Many admitted that they had been not only surprised but deeply moved by the quality of the Maori music.