Instruments of the Moana: Stories of forgotten Pacific musical instruments

Uncover Pacific Heritage in Instruments of the Moana: A New Docuseries Exploring the Lost Sounds of the Pacific

Instruments of the Moana, the eight-part docuseries that offers an incredible journey into the musical heritage of the Pacific. Hosted by Samoan-Niuean storyteller Tau’ili’ili Alpha Maiava, this series spans Samoa, Fiji, Vanuatu, Tonga, Cook Islands, Niue, and the Solomon Islands, where Tau’ili’ili revives traditional instruments that once defined island life. These unique instruments, nearly forgotten with time, held deep meaning and were central to cultural identity.

Reflecting on his mission, Tau’ili’ili shares, “Though I was born & raised in Samoa, my wife and I were blessed with parenthood as immigrants to Aotearoa. Our kids therefore, are children of the migration. And if Aotearoa is home, then it is my responsibility as a parent to provide information about elements from their ancestral home that were, and still are, important to their identity marker, that is beyond sports and entertainment. We weren't just warriors and conquerors; we were also advanced navigators, healers, and composers.”

Hon Aupito Su’a William Sio, Samoan matai and former NZ cabinet minister, underscores the significance of this work for future generations: “This 8-part doco-series is a new way of telling our Pacific stories and ensuring that our music treasures live on for the benefit of future generations...Tauiliili has put his heart and soul in this work, and the Moana Pasifika community and historians will benefit immensely from it.”

Following Maiava’s award-winning Sounds of the Moana podcast, which set the foundation for this visual exploration, Instruments of the Moana aims to create a deeper understanding of Pacific musical heritage.

Former SOUNZ Chief Executive Diana Marsh notes, “The launch of ‘Instruments of the Moana’ marks the culmination of a groundbreaking project initiated to celebrate and preserve the musical heritage of the Moana…By weaving together the wisdom and knowledge of those who contributed, and his cultural insights, he has captured the essence of these instruments and their stories.”

Instruments of the Moana will be available for free on the SOUNZ website and other streaming platforms, making it easy for anyone to reconnect with or learn more about Pacific heritage. Keep an eye out for the release and experience the beauty of Pacific sounds firsthand!

Details of Launch

When: Tuesday 5th November, 2024
Time: 6:30pm
Location: Mangere Arts Center, Auckland
Details: Free entry to the public

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By Tikilounge Productions & Creative New Zealand Toi Aotearoa
Arts & Culture Journalist Destiny Momoiseā