Nigel Clarke’s Euphonium and Brass Band work Kia kaha (Be Strong) was performed on 6 December by Anga Uasike (Euphonium) and the North Shore Brass Band under the baton of Harmen Vanhoorne.

Kia kaha was originally written at the request of Andrew Leech, the former Principal Euphonium of North shore Brass, Auckland, New Zealand. The motivation behind work was a response to the terrible incident that had taken place in Christchurch on the South Island of New Zealand in March 2019. Andrew explained that he and other New Zealanders felt helpless in the face of such a tragedy. In commissioning this work, Andrew sought in a small way to find a positive antidote to this and other painful events taking place around the world.

It was felt that a short reflective piece, in the form of a solemn contemplation, would work best. In recent times the phrase Kia Kaha is being used frequently by New Zealanders; this is a phrase in the language of the indigenous people of New Zealand, the Māori, which means `Be Strong’ and is meant as an affirmation. The Māori also have another word, `Kotahitanga’ (koh-tuh-hee-tun-guh), which means unity or solidarity, the notion of working together with those around you. Our aim was to capture these two sentiments in the new work. Not least, a concert seemed the perfect occasion for welcoming and bringing people together!

In the spirit of Kia kaha, it is hoped this solemn contemplation will be a source of reflective strength to us all in these challenging times. The premiere took place on May 12 th 2019 at the …. With Andrew Leech as soloist with North Shore Brass under the baton of Colin Clarke.

North Shore Brass Band