https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfB6egZioWc
"Finding Peace" is a musical expression of the connection and peace we find from understanding our place in the world, through our identity regardless of the contexts, challenges we face in the spaces we live and move within as musicians and individuals. From the challenges, we find peace in the smiles, warmth and love of those around us who care. For me as a Samoan living and working in a context that is predominantly Maori in the beautiful Far North, Aotearoa, knowing my voice and identity helps me to navigate and feel a sense of comfort and connection in this space hence the final expression in Te Reo. Thank you to Parachute Studios for the recording session - thank you to Victoria University Research Fellow projects - I am proud to have completed this project even through all the challenges of the pandemic and isolations periods that had affected so many others. I am thankful to have a team of friends/musicians who were willing to stick it out with me and get this project recorded and completely eventually. Thank you - Fa'afetai tele Saia Folau - Vocals Joanna Strom - Cello Peter Mumby - Trumpet Alparslan Semiz - Saxophone Linda Filimoehala - Trombone Hannah Elise - Bass Eric Reid-Pihema - Guitar (proud to have had Eric one of my current year 12 music students from Kaitaia College be a part of this project) My son Opeloge - Conche / Purerehea Matua Tangira - Instrument maker Pops Arona - Instrument stands Thank you Olivia Just for your support with the filming and of course... Dexter Stanley-Tauvao - Drums - so proud of you and the pathway you are carving out for yourself and inspiring others to dream big and to not fear success and dreams in music. Dr Brian Diettrich for sticking it out, encouragement and supporting this all the way to the end Blessings to everyone out there and thank you for supporting this video Yours sincerely Dr Opeloge Ah Sam
This makes me proud to be a New Zealander <3
