User:Sycofantic/sandbox/Francis Kora

Francis Kora is a New Zealand musician and actor. He currently performs with the groups Kora (band) and the Modern Māori Quartet. He cowrote and performed songs, with the other band members, for the Modern Māori Quartet's debut album That's Us! (2017).

Kora starred in the 2014 film The Pā Boys. He currently co-hosts Māori Television's My Party Song as part of the Modern Māori Quartet.

Early Life
Kora was born in Whakatāne, Aotearoa New Zealand and is of Māori (Ngāi Tūhoe, Ngāti Pūkeko) descent''. ''Francis and his three brothers Laughton, Stuart and Brad grew up entertaining. As kids they played RSAs, rugby clubs and Cossie clubs in Whakatāne, under the guidance of their Father. . Francis is a graduate of Toi Whakaari: New Zealand Drama School (Te Kura Toi Whakaari ō Aotearoa) earning a Bachelor of Performing Arts (Acting).

Music
In the 90's Kora and his three brothers, Laughton, Brad and Stuart, founded the band,Kora (band). He is a member of the Māori showband the Modern Māori Quartet, along side Maaka Pohatu, Matariki Whatarau and James Tito.

Film and Television
Kora made his debut feature film appearance as the star of The Pā Boys in 2014.

Personal Life
Kora has a young daughter, Coco-Grace. He wrote the Quartet's song Shine for her, and dedicated it to "all the kids in the world."