My ensemble will present a series of original compositions developed during my time as the 2024 Jazz Composer-in-Residence at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington. These works reflect a compositional approach shaped by both the harmonic and improvisational sensibilities of contemporary jazz pianists such as Brad Mehldau, Robert Glasper, and Aaron Parks, and the rhythmic, melodic, and resonance of indigenous Samoan music, drawn from my own cultural heritage. This synthesis seeks to articulate a distinctly Pasifika jazz sound.

Featuring: Andrew Faleatua (piano, fahūfagu), Seth Boy (double bass), and Isitolo Alesana, who plays both ukulele and traditional Samoan percussion instruments. This performance marks the live debut of the full suite of compositions, which have been recorded and are set to release later this year.