Pasefika Performance opportunities at NZSM
Two new papers in Pacific Music at Te Kōki, the New Zealand School of Music, will give students the opportunity to add
performance-based study of music to their degrees.
The Level 2 (PERF 251) and 3 (PERF 351) courses being offered for the first time in 2012 are performance-based with an emphasis on vocal music repertoire. The
lecturer, Samoan-born Opeloge Ah Sam, has a wide experience in the study and performance of Pacific music in both traditional and modern contexts.
The courses will be of interest to students across a wide range of backgrounds, not just music students: Pasefika
students who want to explore these elements of their culture; Maori and New Zealand students who want to extend their
knowledge of music within a Pacific context; voice student who wish to extend their repertoire and experience;
International students who wish to explore and experience the music which is indigenous to this part of the world.
Enrolment in both courses should be completed by Tuesday 10 January 2012, but late enrolments and courses changes can be
made after this date. Late applications may be waitlisted, or may incur a late fee. Applicants for PERF 351 should note
that, unless they get permission from Head of School, MUSC 251 or MUSC 351 are prerequisites for this paper.
Contact NZSM for more information or advice: music@nzsm.ac.nz or 04 463 5369
PERF251: “Pacific Islands Performance 1” (Trimester 1)
An introductory level performance course that focuses on performance practices within the contexts of Pacific Island
music, and especially Pacific vocal music repertory.
This course provides a performance-based approach with a focus on repertory from particular Pacific music cultures, and
explores traditional and modern approaches to understanding and performing Pacific music in various contexts. In the
course we will also explore the influence of musical styles such as Hip-Hop, Jazz, Art Music, and Gospel on Pacific
Island musicians, cultures, and practices. Through our singing together and discussions each week, we will discover and
define our own musical identities.
Students will apply their work in the course to a final performance project.
ACR (Adam Concert Room), NZSM Kelburn Campus
Trimester 1, Monday, 10:00-11:50, Tuesday, 12:00-12:50
Lecturer: Opeloge Ah Sam
PERF351: “Pacific Islands Performance 2” (Trimester 2)
An intermediate level performance course that focuses on performance practices within the contexts of Pacific Island
music, and especially Pacific vocal music repertory.
Through active participation in music, this course will explore performance practices and ethical issues surrounding
Pacific Island music, both traditional and modern. The course will use a performance based approach with a particular
focus on chosen repertory and artists from particular Pacific music cultures. Students will be encouraged to explore
further the questions of tradition versus contemporary arts in understanding and performing of Pacific Island music in
various contexts.
Through our work, we will also explore how musicians of Pacific ancestry and backgrounds contribute to the
multi-cultural landscape of music in Aotearoa NZ. Our discussions will be linked together by an overall attempt to
discover and define our own identities through musical performance.
Students will apply their work in the course to a final performance project.
MUSC 251 or MUSC 351 are Pre-requisites for this course although this condition may be waived with Permission from the
Head of School.
ACR (Adam Concert Room), NZSM Kelburn Campus
Trimester 2, Wednesday, 9:00-10:20, Friday, 9:00-10:20
Lecturer: Opeloge Ah Sam
ends