The Samoas are a Polynesian island chain, currently divided between the independent state of Samoa (formerly Western Samoa) and an American territory called American Samoa. Prior to the arrival of Europeans, there were two musical instruments in use in Samoa. A pate, a hollowed-out log, and the fala, a rolled-up mat beaten with sticks. Both were percussion instruments, accompanied by singing. Much of Samoan history and culture were communicated through song and dance, both of which were integral parts of Samoan life; most Samoan folk music was narrative in structure. Traditionally, the fiafia was a musical or theatrical presentation; in modern times, however, it is a hotel performance in which dances like the siva and sa sa are performed.

After Europeans came to Samoa, two new instruments were produced and quickly became commonplace: the sielo and ukulele, both string instruments.

"Amerika Samoa", a song with words by Mariota Tiumalu Tuiasosopo and music by Napoleon Andrew Tuiteleleapaga, has been official territorial anthem of American Samoa since 1950. "The Banner of Freedom", a song which honors the flag of Samoa, has been the national anthem of Samoa since 1962; it was composed by Sauni Iiga Kuresa.

Modern music

Modern pop and rock have a large audience in Samoa, as well as several native bands; these bands have abandoned most elements of Samoan traditional music, though there are folky performers. Traditional instruments are mostly not used in popular music, having been replaced by Western instruments like the guitar. Many pop bands are associated with a particular hotel, such as the RSA Band and the Mount Vaia Band. Some hotel bands have toured abroad, in places like New Zealand. Pop musicians also include the Lole, Golden Ali'is and The Five Star, along with Jerome Gray, whose "We Are Samoa" remains an unofficial national anthem.

Samoans abroad have achieved limited musical renown. The Boo-Yaa Tribe had a brief flirtation with the American mainstream, while the Samoan Sisters found more lasting fame in New Zealand.

The shows My Idol and Samoa Star Search have become an important musical contest in Samoa.

External link

• American Folklife Center (http://www.loc.gov/folklife/states/americansamoa.html)'s American Samoa page, from the Library of Congress