Students and staff of Fagaitua, Samoana, Leone and Tafuna high schools have enjoyed an opera treat as they wrap up classes and take their holiday break.
Samoan global sensation tenor Pene Pati, smooth sounding Samoan baritone Moses Mackay, and newcomer Samoan baritone Samson Setu, with the pioneering pianist Dr. Ludwig Treviranus, have been singing at the mentioned high schools since they arrived on island Sunday.
The schools have shown their appreciation and interest by also performing for the visitors. There’s also been lively question and answer sessions. “What does it take to become an opera singer?” Answer: “Lots of hard work, dedication and commitment.”
And just as the local students have been glued to every note sung by the group, Ethan Lake co-founder of Pacific Island Foundation, the non-profit organization that’s brought the opera singers here, says that the visitors have also been impressed with the talent and energy of our youth.
The only public concert by the opera singers is a benefit for Pacific Island Foundation tonight at the Lee Auditorium, billed as the 1st International Opera Gala in American Samoa.
Here’s an excerpt from an interview with Moses on the Morning Show.
Play Audio: MOSES_01
Traveling with the stars are the Samoa National Orchestra and SPACE dance group.
