Contributor
Mina Ripia
Composer, Performer, Māori Composer
Biography
Ngā Puhi, Ngāti Kahungunu
Mina Ripia is based in Titahi Bay, Porirua and was one of the original Moa Hunters. She is the key composer for acapella group WHIRI TŪ AKA and, along with her partner Maaka Phat, is a co-composer for the Māori electronica band WAI, which has been raising the awareness of Māori artistic expression both nationally and internationally since 1999.
Performing entirely in the Māori language, WAI utilize a Māori style of presentation, not only in their structure and fusion but also in the delivery of their live show. WAI weave the Māori language with its natural percussive flow and Poi with synths and drums creating a sound as soulful and funky as any music while sounding not remotely like anything heard before. WAI have performed at numerous high profile international events and have been recognised and acknowledged as innovators in their field, breaking new ground and fearlessly going where no Māori language bands have been before.