What’s it about?
In Instruments of the Moana, we explore eight instruments that were once the heartbeat of the Moana Pacific: conch, mouth harp, lali, nose flute, panpipe, pātē, stamping tube and the mouth pipes of Vanuatu. From the shores of Rarotonga to the vibrant Solomon Islands, we meet knowledge holders, craftsmen, musicians and cultural experts who have kept these sounds alive, including Tu’ifonualava Kaivelata, Mitaera Ngatae Teatuakaro ‘Papa Mike’ Tavioni, Edgar Hinge, Simione Sevudredre, Ma’ara Maeva, John Houkarawa, Moira Enetama, Ta'iao Dr. Matiu Matavai Tautunu, John Kiria, Loli Tuisavalalo, Danny Mataora and Vincent Rohimae. Through the stories of these cultural custodians, we learn that these instruments are a truly vital part of the Moana Pacific's living legacy.
Who is this series for?
Instruments of the Moana is for members of the Moana Pacific diaspora who grew up in Western societies, serving as an equipping tool to support their understanding of their sound treasures that they were not raised with. It is also for anyone curious to hear and explore the diverse sounds that once echoed across the Moana and to meet the people working to preserve these sounds today, and for those who are keen to take part in the revival and safeguarding of the unique sound weaving heritage of the Moana Pacific.
Why watch Instruments of the Moana?
Instruments of the Moana will take you on a journey across the Pacific, where the sounds of the islands tell stories of life, connection and identity. You’ll ascertain knowledge about the indigenous sounds and instruments of the Moana as told, shared and recalled by the peoples whose arts, sounds and expressions of creativity add vibrant colour to the tropical nations of the Moana Pacific. You’ll also learn why the preservation of these instruments — many of which are already endangered or extinct — is crucial for the future.
Through the knowledge and wisdom of cultural custodians, Instruments of the Moana calls us to reconnect with the forgotten sounds of these instruments and remember the stories that were carried by their breath, rhythm and beat. It is a tribute to the heritage of the Moana people and a call to revive these cultural treasures.
Awards and Accomplishments
Instruments of the Moana builds upon the success of the acclaimed Sounds of the Moana podcast series, co-produced & hosted by Tau’ili’ili Alpha Maiava, which won Gold at the prestigious New York Festivals Radio Awards (NYFRA) in 2022.