Recording artist and popular singer, Teata Hauavaine Nga-Moeara, will showcase her talent on stage tonight in the prestigious Te Tae Pae Nui Te Mire Atu original Māori composers’ competition.

Nga-Moeara first participated in the event 14 years ago, performing her own composition on stage. This year, she is geared up to do the same for the second time.

She was motivated by her father, Piritau Nga Sr, a former dance champion and culture expert, to participate again.

“He said, ‘I’ve retired so why don’t you join or what is the use of what I’ve taught you’,” said Nga-Moeara.

Her husband, Travel Moeara, and their children also encouraged her to use her talent.

“With this year being our 60^th anniversary of self-governance, looking back at previous events supporting and helping composers and my family’s support, I decided to sign on,” said Nga-Moeara.

Over the decades, she has learned the musical styles and lyrical preferences of various composers from Rarotonga and the Pa Enua.

“For me, this year I’m going to incorporate all of that into one song,” she said.

Tonight, she’ll show, through her performance, how the style of Cook Islands music has evolved over time.

Nga-Moeara was raised in a home passionate about culture, dance and music. She believes each person has their own passion and talent.

“There are no limitations to the abilities that you have and everyone has that talent in them. It’s about bringing it out and being in the right environment.

“If you’re not confident, you need to stand up for yourself and have that belief in yourself.

“I’m here to support if anyone needs it.”

Nga-Moeara first sang in public at age six during her school’s Parents Day event. At age eight, she joined the national song quest.

In 2003, she released her first album “Inangaro”, followed by “E Reo” in 2005, and the “Rau Maire” album in 2007.

Her brothers, Samuel, Piritau Jr and Edward, are also very talented in culture and are dance champions.

Together, the “Nga Sibling” perform at weddings, birthdays and special events.

Throughout her life, she has continued her love of music and, at the age of 39, remains active in live performances.

“Singing is everywhere … the trees sing, the cars sing, it’s everywhere,” Nga-Moeara said.

The national Māori composers’ event will feature 16 artists, performing tonight at Te Are Karioi Nui/National Auditorium, starting at 6pm. Tickets will be available at the door.