Queen's Birthday Honours Recognise Musical Contributions

Moana Maniapoto, who recently won the prestigious International Songwriting Competition, has been appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the 2004 Queen's Birthday Honours announced over the weekend.

Moana says on her website www.moananz.com:

"Anyway, not being a royalist at all - I had to think twice.

"But after speaking with my friends and family, I decided to do so. I've never been big on letters after my name, and have never stuck my degree after mine like some people do. But if it helps to promote kaupapa Maori etc to some sectors who are impressed by that sort of thing, then here we go!"

Other musical figures recognised were Eldred Stebbing, founder of Stebbing Recording Studios, who has been an integral part of the New Zealand music industry for many years. Stebbing Recording Centre opened in 1946 and Eldred was personally responsible for recording many of the acts considered to be 'Kiwi Gold' over several decades following. Now in his 80's but still active in the business of Stebbings, Eldred's contribution to NZ music has long been recognised by the industry, with this new appointment as Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit a well deserved honour.

Terence Dennis, Associate Professor in Music at the University of Otago and renowned pianist and accompanist was also acknowledged by becoming a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit.