"Only to the Highest Mountain takes inspiration from New Zealand's greatest role models; those many Kiwis who have stood strong for what they believe and shown the world just how amazing New Zealanders are. It also respects the journey our forefathers took, be it from Hawaiki, Europe, or other parts of the globe." ~ Natalie Hunt
The meaning behind this work is two-fold; on one hand, it speaks of New Zealand's identity; on the other, it calls for self-worth; “to thine own self be true”.
Influenced by the landscape, the octatonic nature of this work implies the exotic connotations of our cornucopian nation. Visual listeners may perceive waves, mist and the flight of a bird. Only to the Highest Mountain pays homage to Witi Ihimaera's vision of New Zealand's combined cultures, twisting together in a rope, te taura tangata; growing stronger with aroha and acceptance as we reach towards eternity.
This work is written with gratitude to the National Youth Orchestra, to our nation, and dedicated to Witi Ihimaera.
Biography
Composer Natalie Hunt Photo: Reuben Lucas Photography
Born into a musical family in 1985, Natalie Hunt spent much of her childhood attending theatre, dance, and music rehearsals. Her high school years saw increased involvement in the community, performing regularly with the Napier Operatic Society, the Hawkes Bay Jazz Club Big Band, the Hawkes Bay Youth Orchestra, the Ionian Singers and various chamber ensembles, on saxophones, clarinet, and cello.
Natalie holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science & International Relations from Victoria University, as well as a Bachelor of Music (first class honours in Instrumental/Vocal Composition) from the New Zealand School of Music. In 2009 she was named NZSO NYO Composer in Residence with Only to the Highest Mountain and winner of the NZSO/Todd Corporation Young Composer Award with Rain II. Recent compositions include Another Sea, commissioned by the Wellington Branch of the IRMT for their 'High Five' piano album, as well as Matariki and Data Entry Groove, which were commissioned by the New Zealand String Quartet for their 'Travelling Portmanteau', and Quartet, commissioned for the 2017 Adam Chamber Music Festival.
Recorded 12 April 2017, Michael Fowler Centre, Wellington by RNZ Concert for 2017 NZ Composer Sessions.
Producer: David McCaw
Engineer: Graham Kennedy
