United States ambassador to Fiji Marie Damour summed it up well when she said music sparked innovation to transform our societies.
She was speaking against a backdrop of foot stomping sounds as the American Music Abroad (AMA) and Sounds of A&R (SOAR) Jazz band kicked-off their International Tour in the Pacific at the Fiji National University (FNU), Nasinu Campus yesterday.
“Jazz is much more than music — it is the essence of democracy,” Ms Damour said.
“Whether that empowers entrepreneurs to create sustainable and inclusive economic growth or helps us find innovative solutions to the climate crisis.”
FNU pro-vice-chancellor TVET Dr Isimeli Tagicakiverata said “music can change the world as it brings people together from all walks of life”.
“In Fiji and the Pacific, we love our music,” Mr Tagicakiverata said.
“In the buses, taxis, in our individual homes, various office spaces and on the streets — music will always be played in our midst.
“Such collaborations with the US Embassy and Sounds of A&R Jazz band at the FNU will open doors to endless opportunities for our music students, including respective students who intend to undertake the program.”
The tour will combine several activities in both Fiji and Tonga to emphasise the US’s continued engagement in culture and arts in the region.
Members of the public can hear SOAR play at a lunchtime concert at the FNPF Food Court today, at 12.30pm.
