A Samoan composer and conductor whose CV includes working as choirmaster for the first The Lord of the Rings movie has been recognised for his contribution to the performance and promotion of Pacific music. Igelese Ete received the $7000 Senior Pacific Artist Award at the Creative New Zealand Arts Pasifika Awards in Manukau last night. Ete, who worked on The Fellowship of the Ring alongside Oscar-winning composer Howard Shore, was also conductor for the America’s Cup opening ceremony in 2002 and conductor/composer for the South Pacific Games in Samoa last year. ‘Rings’ choirmaster honoured