Dr Richard Nunns — Nga taonga puoro, traditional Maori musical instruments

Later… I heard Maori instrument genius Richard Nunns and Philippino flute player Benecio Sokong in subtle improvisations Lindis Taylor, Dominion Post, 2007

Richard Nunns is a living authority on nga taonga puoro (Maori traditional musical instruments). He has been described as one of New Zealand’s most remarkable musicians.

His thorough and sensitive research has provided a wealth of information around the sounds, history and stories of these taonga, ensuring their preservation for future generations.

He has received national and international recognition as he takes the instruments into conversation, discussion and collaboration with different cultures and musical genres.

2009 APRA Silver Scroll Awards

On Thursday 17 September Hirini Melbourne and Richard Nunns were honoured at the 2009 APRA Silver Scroll Awards — Christchurch Town Hall — as 2009 inductees to the New Zealand Music Hall of Fame.

Queen’s Service Medal 2009

Richard Nunns, left, and Brian Flintoff have received Queen's Service Medals Marion van Dijk/

Richard Nunns and instrument maker Brian Flintoff received Queen’s Service Medals in the 2009 Queen’s Birthday honours list.

“It has been a fascinating challenge to discover music and instruments which only existed in distant memory.” Richard Nunns

“You can see the recognition of these instruments in the laughter and tears of the elders who hear this music and remember their sound.” Brian Flintoff

Read the story at the Nelson Mail