Described as a musical connection across seas, the launching of Wan Solwara is intended to unite people from different cultures.
Wan Solwara (One Ocean) is a collaboration between Indigenous Australians and young Bougainvillean musicians, coming together to celebrate the power of music.
It was conceived in 2022 when the Australian Government invited internationally renowned didgeridoo player, Tjupurru, and his son Jake Fabila, to participant in the Bougainville Voice X-Plosion competition.
The song, and a video which documents the story of the music collaboration, were officially launched by Bougainville President, Ishmael Toroama, and Australian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, Jon Philp.
High Commissioner Philp said the Australia Government is committed to promoting and strengthening cultural linkages between First Nations Peoples in Australia and across Papua New Guinea as part of its Indigenous Diplomacy efforts.
“This collaboration underscores the power of cultural exchange and music to strengthen people to people links and knowledge sharing between First Nations peoples. Indeed, Tjupurru also has a strong connection to PNG, being born in Port Moresby and with family connections in Central and Bougainville,” said Philp.
Along with Tjupurru and Jake, Wan Solwara features 2022 Bougainville Voice X-Plosion contestants Michael Dave, Ruth Maison, Walter Kerevio, Jolista Masu, Robertha Yansi, and Milton Garea.
Supporting artists include acclaimed PNG musician and producer, Richard Mogu, Tsarlayse Iamu and Kawas Band. It was recorded and mixed in Bougainville in 2022 by local sound engineer, Melchior Wagum, with guest producer, Richard Mogu, and mastered and released in Australia in March 2023 by Wantok Musik label.
The artists drew on their cultural heritage, using a combination of traditional and contemporary instrumentation including bamboo pipes, and didjeribone (a cross between a didgeridoo and a trombone). Lyrics were co-written by ABG Minister for Community Development, Morris Opeti, Richard Mogu, Tjupurru, Jake, and the young musicians.
President Toroama says music plays an important role in transmitting cultural knowledge from generation to generation.
“Music is an important conduit for conveying important messages of hope and peace. Bougainvilleans have a strong attachment to music through unique, traditional songs and chants, accompanied by bamboo pipes. This is something that Bougainville youth must be proud of and maintain,” said Toroama.
The collaboration was documented by local filmmakers, Bruno Louey and Ishmael Palipal (Createk Multimedia), and produced with Wantok Musik. The track lyrics and video call upon Bougainvilleans to “Get Up! Stand Up! Show Up!” to bring about positive change in their communities.
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