Due to some composers and singers being struck with Omicron and having to undergo mandatory isolation regulations, Te Mire Atu 2022 Maori composers competition has been postponed until June 23.

Hosted by Tauranga Vananga (Ministry of Culture Development), Culture’s events and auditorium manager Robert Ioaba says with the reopening of the international borders and the anticipation that people would contract Omicron the deferment of the event was something they had prepared for.

Twelve composers have registered for the cultural event including Poroa Arokapiti from Mangaia, who under the present travel restrictions would have been unable to attend the show, “waiting until June when things are more settled seems the best option,” said Ioaba.

The composers are all well-known, but we will accept a maximum of 15 composers, so there is time for another three to register, he added.

Last year, eight song composers took to the stage showcasing their talent with Tuaine Unuia winning the coveted trophy for his composition that was sung by Poti Maeava.

The 2022 theme for all cultural activities of the year is “Te au Vairakau Tupuna o toku Matakeinanga/Enua” or the “Traditional Medicine of my Community/Island” which will also be applied to Te Mire Atu.

Ioaba says, the style and taste of each composition must coincide with the main theme and the use of old Cook Islands Maori words and phrases.

“The lyrics of the song must be Cook Islands Māori, ei au tuatua Māori Kuki ’Airani anake to te ’imene.”

One song will be permitted per composer and can be performed by the composer or by a singer of the composer’s choice; and only one singer is to lead the song that can be performed with a pre-recorded backing track on a CD or a flash drive. A live band and backing vocals will be permitted.

The competition will be judged on the lyrics, the composition and connection to the theme, originality of tune and the musical arrangement, standard and clarity, and “the judge’s decision is final”.