Our exploration of the indigenous instruments of the Moana begins with an epic journey across the Pacific to uncover the secrets of the mouth harp, an instrument that boasts one of the largest global footprints and a rich history spanning over a millennium. In this episode, host Tau’ili’ili Alpha Maiava explores the mouth harp’s cultural significance across various islands, tracing its past and examining its place in contemporary life.
Our journey begins in Rarotonga, where we visit Mitaera Ngatae Teatuakaro ‘Papa Mike’ Tavioni. A revered master carver and cultural custodian, Papa Mike emphasises the importance of localised narratives in preserving cultural identity. His insights into the mouth harp (known as ‘ūtete’ in Tonga, Niue, Hawaii and Tokelau, and ‘tā ūtete’ in Samoa) highlight its significance beyond mere sound, linking it to the broader cultural tapestry of the Cook Islands.
Next, we travel to Tonga, where we meet Tu’ifonualava Kaivelata, a master craftsman and head of the Auckland-based collective Hikule’o o Ono’aho. Tu’ifonualava shares his expertise in crafting ūtete from bamboo and coconut leaves, reminiscing about how children of his generation played the instrument, creating vibrant sounds that echoed through their communities.
In Vanuatu, traditional instrumentalist and sand artist Edgar Hinge introduces us to the mouth harp's role in Vanuatu’s musical heritage. Known locally as ‘ihu’ (meaning ‘bow and arrow’), the instrument is attributed to a mythical figure called Tari Tabiana. It is a unique instrument that is rarely played today.
In Fiji, Tau’ili’ili speaks with Simione Sevudredre, founder of Sauvaka Cultural Consultancy. Simione reflects on the mouth harp, known as ‘taka’ in Fiji, discussing the challenges of reviving nearly forgotten practices. He stresses the importance of aligning cultural memory with the right time, place, space and bloodline for a successful revival.
Join Tau’ili’ili as he weaves together these captivating stories of the mouth harp, highlighting the shared heritage of the Pacific islands while celebrating their unique expressions.
Host: Tau’ili’ili Alpha Maiava
Knowledge holders: Tu’ifonualava Kaivelata, Mitaera Ngatae Teatuakaro ‘Papa Mike’ Tavioni (BEM), Edgar Hinge, Simione Sevudredre
Written by: Tau’ili’ili Alpha Maiava
Directed by: Tau’ili’ili Alpha Maiava & Guy Pigden
Filmed & Edited by: Campfire Studios NZ
Director of Photography: Isaac Newcombe
Production Lead: Will Flemming
Editor: Sam Wheeler
Graphics: Ben Ashby
Soundscape: Tomas Iglesias
Sound design & mix: Envy Studios
Colourist: Dave Mclaren
Research Assistant: Huni Mancini
Cultural Advisors: Tu’ifonualava Kaivelata, Ma’ara Maeva, Dionne Fonoti
Locations:
Tongatapu, Kingdom of Tonga
Wellington, NZ
Rarotonga, Cook Islands
Port Vila, Vanuatu
Auckland, NZ
Special thanks to:
Archive of Māori and Pacific Sound
Vanuatu Culture Center
Gallery Tavioni & Vananga
Alexander Turnbull Library
Auckland War Memorial Museum I Tāmaki Paenga Hira
Ngā Taonga Sound & Vision
Ministry of Culture & Heritage
Mahi Moana Inc.
Tagata Moana Cultural Lead: Mahi Moana Incorporated
Produced by: SOUNZ Centre for New Zealand Music I Toi te Arapūoru
This film is supported by funding from Manatū Taonga | The Ministry for Culture and Heritage.
© Copyright Centre for New Zealand Music Trust
