MASTERCLASS WITH SCREEN COMPOSERS TIKI TANE, ARLI LIBERMAN AND DIRECTOR MIKE JONATHAN
Hear how the transcendent soundtrack within Ka Whawhai Tonu was crafted, from the creators themselves.
Tiki and Arli will take you behind the scenes of their stunning collaboration, sharing real examples and performing live in the room, offering a rare and intimate insight into their creative process.
Joined by director Mike Jonathan, the team will explore how they worked together to craft with precision and passion the film’s composition, which has been praised for the way it weaves traditional Māori Taonga pūoro with cinematic orchestration, creating an auditory experience that is as resonant as the story it tells.
SPEAKERS
MIKE JONATHAN
Mike has achieved an extraordinary career spanning over three decades, excelling as a cameraman, director of photography, and director in the dynamic and ever-evolving realms of television and film. Throughout his impressive tenure, his work has garnered widespread acclaim and recognition, particularly for his remarkable contributions to documentaries and short films. These projects have not only showcased his technical prowess and artistic vision but also demonstrated his deep commitment to storytelling and authentic representation.
A significant milestone in Mike’s illustrious career is the highly anticipated release of his debut feature film, Ka Whawhai Tonu – Struggle without End, in 2024. This film stands as a testament to his dedication, skill, and passion for filmmaking. It represents a culmination of years of hard work, perseverance, and creative exploration. Ka Whawhai Tonu is more than just a film; it is a powerful narrative that sheds light on important historical events, reflecting Mike’s ability to blend compelling storytelling with cultural significance. The release of this film marks a pivotal achievement in Mike’s journey as a filmmaker, solidifying his place in the industry and leaving an indelible mark on audiences and critics alike.
ARI LIBERMAN
FEATURE FILMS:
Kōkā (2025) – Directed by Kath Akuhata-Brown
Ka Whawhai Tonu (2024) – Co-composer with Tiki Taane
The Mountain (2024) – Original score, with music by Troy Kingi
Stylebender (2023) – Documentary, directed by Zoe McIntosh
Dame Valerie Adams: MORE THAN GOLD (2022) – ,directed by Briar March
Savage (2019) – Feature film, directed by Sam Kelly
Songs for Maria – Feature film, directed by Carl
SHORT FILMS:
Defaced (2025) – Directed by Isaac Bell
Datsun (2021) – Directed by Mark Albiston
Washday (2021) – Directed by Kath Akuhata-Brown
Nai/Milk (2021) – Directed by Michelle Ang
Purea (2020) – Directed by Kath Akuhata-Brown
Ways to See (2019) – Directed by Jessica Sanderson
TELEVISION:
The 36th America’s Cup (2021) – theme music
Moko (2022) – TV documentary series, directed by Jessica Sanderson
The 37th America’s Cup (2024) – theme music
TIKI TANE
Composer for When a City Falls documentary 2011.
Composer for SIX60: Till the Lights Go Out documentary 2020.
Director, producer, composer, performer, sound mixer for Tiki Taane in session with CSO concert documentary 2023.
Composer for Ka Whawhai Tonu – Struggle Without End film 2024.
