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Samoan pese

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Category: Genre

Summary

Pese is the Samoan word for song, so Samoan pese is a broad practice label rather than a narrow commercial genre. This entry centres communal and choral singing in sacred and secular life. Choirs, family groups, village ensembles and school performers can give words a shared social voice. Rich harmony is a prominent reference, but no single sound covers all Samoan song. Language, occasion and relationships among singers help define the meaning. Listening should therefore move beyond the idea of an undifferentiated Pacific choir toward particular Samoan people and purposes. [1]

Contemporary and trending

Communal singing remains active in churches, family occasions, village events, schools and diaspora institutions. New compositions enter alongside familiar hymns and other shared songs. Samoan-led teaching projects make language and participatory music accessible to younger generations, including those growing up overseas. Digital recordings extend reach but do not replace the social experience of singing with others. A choir’s strength is therefore not adequately measured through a solo recording career or chart entry. Contemporary vitality includes composing, rehearsing and the routine contribution of people who may never consider themselves professional musicians. [2]

History

Older Samoan vocal practices developed through local ceremony, dance, narrative and communal life. Christian missions introduced hymn repertories, harmony and new institutions during the nineteenth century, which Samoan communities transformed into deeply rooted musical worlds. Schools, churches and later recording and broadcasting changed circulation. Secular popular music and instrumental ensembles created further resources. Migration to New Zealand, Australia and elsewhere extended these relationships across the Pacific. The result is not one simple progression from traditional chant to Western choir; different histories remain active and influence one another.

Musical characteristics

Many choir performances build a full sound from several vocal parts, with strong phrase shapes and a clear relation to the text. A leader, conductor or ensemble convention coordinates entries, emphasis and endings. In other settings, response, clapping, bodily rhythm or instruments support song. Harmonic blend can be an expressive achievement rather than evidence that individual voices lack character. Pronunciation and breath reveal how the group carries a line. Compare ceremonial, church and informal performances, attending to what people are doing together rather than assuming every multi-part texture serves the same function.

Geography and communities

Upolu, Savaiʻi and the communities of American Samoa form a connected home landscape with local histories and institutions. The map spans these islands rather than concentrating all affinity in Apia or Pago Pago. Auckland and other New Zealand Samoan communities constitute another substantial musical world; eastern Australia supplies a lighter but durable diaspora field. Te Ara’s Samoan-authored Grey Lynn choir account gives a concrete example of that continuity. Broad mushrooms illustrate participation and cultural attachment, not a claim that every Samoan song or church tradition has identical distribution. [3]

Artists

Community choirs and their directors are appropriate artist references, including publicly documented congregational ensembles. Malua’s theological and educational world is a useful route into church singing, while village and family groups reveal other settings. Contemporary composers such as Elisha Faʻi-Soʻoialo demonstrate that pese remains a space for creation and teaching. Familiar Samoan pop stars can provide another gateway but should not stand in for the entire communal tradition. Follow the ensemble, composer, language and occasion in credits, and compare different groups’ ways of shaping the same kind of phrase.

Representative performances

These recordings offer listening examples of the genre. Notes identify the performance setting and any adaptation or mixed repertoire.

MuGlobe listening profile
Repertoire Field use Notes
traditional regional Comprehensive catalogue; recent discovery is prioritized and worthwhile older music remains playable. Preserve specific recording contexts and dates.
MuGlobe representative performances
Artist Performance / song / title Embedded player URL Notes Repertoire kind Repertoire date Recording date Format Opening Places Fit Evidence Review note MuGlobe favorite Current hit Authentic
EFKS Vaiala Choir Lagi Ia Lau Pese — Pese o le Me (2022) https://www.youtube.com/embed/4lrYq5yL81c The choir's own channel presents a Samoan choral song for the annual May singing occasion. This is the church-choir strand of pese, with collective vocal harmony, rather than a claim that all Samoan song is church music.[4] unknown unknown unknown unknown unknown unknown pending Existing recording Legacy accepted recording retained during curation-field migration; no new age or geographic claims. false false false
Choir of Western Samoa Teachers’ Training College Lota Nu’u Ua Ou Fanau Ai https://www.youtube.com/embed/i9KRvcKvjqw Officially distributed choir audio adds a song addressing Samoa and homeland to the church-choir selection, showing another institutional setting for Samoan ensemble singing.[5] unknown unknown unknown unknown unknown unknown pending Existing recording Legacy accepted recording retained during curation-field migration; no new age or geographic claims. false false false
Dilworth School Fortissimo (director Jacob Moore) Dilworth School, Fortissimo | Pese O Le Tatau - trad. Samoan, arr. Jacob Moore https://www.youtube.com/embed/uWysJL3JmGQ Pese O Le Tatau, traditional Samoan communal-song arrangement by Jacob Moore, sung at The Big Sing 2024. Actual New Zealand school choir/director, not an invented traditional village ensemble. Samoan repertoire in an adopted choral setting. Source: New Zealand Choral Federation. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2024-08-30; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[6] traditional unknown 2024 live unknown country:newzealand supported Recording/context source Pese O Le Tatau, traditional Samoan communal-song arrangement by Jacob Moore, sung at The Big Sing 2024. Actual New Zealand school choir/director, not an invented traditional village ensemble. Samoan repertoire in an adopted choral setting. Source: New Zealand Choral Federation. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
Malua Theological College Special Choir 3. Pese 73 EFKS / Pese 63 EFKS https://www.youtube.com/embed/Z7-5cV5z658 Pese73EFKS/Pese63EFKS in the 2026 Malua clergy gathering. Actual college community choir, named hymn programme; one medley counts once. Source: Malua Theological College. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2026-08-25; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[7] traditional unknown 2026 live unknown country:samoa supported Recording/context source Pese73EFKS/Pese63EFKS in the 2026 Malua clergy gathering. Actual college community choir, named hymn programme; one medley counts once. Source: Malua Theological College. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
Piula Theological Choir Pese Metotisi 53 - Piula Theological Choir https://www.youtube.com/embed/x04nVw0gxvM Pese Metotisi53, filmed by the publisher during the graduation-photography engagement at Piula. Actual choir singing is the recording; photographer and graduating student are not credited as the singers. Source: Cuatro Media Samoa. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2024-06-22; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[8] traditional unknown unknown live unknown country:samoa supported Recording/context source Pese Metotisi53, filmed by the publisher during the graduation-photography engagement at Piula. Actual choir singing is the recording; photographer and graduating student are not credited as the singers. Source: Cuatro Media Samoa. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
Malua Theological College choir (director Rev Faafetai Koria) O le sao o Malua, i le tatalaina o le 64 tausaga Tuto'atasi o Samoa 2026 https://www.youtube.com/embed/yTgCmSr3eTI Malua’s musical contribution to Samoa’s 64th Independence opening in2026. Four-song communal/hymn programme counts once; RevProfVaitusiNofoaiga is credited with compilation and RevFaafetaiKoria with direction, not four extra soloists. Source: Malua Theological College. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2026-06-02; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[9] traditional unknown 2026 live unknown country:samoa supported Recording/context source Malua’s musical contribution to Samoa’s 64th Independence opening in2026. Four-song communal/hymn programme counts once; RevProfVaitusiNofoaiga is credited with compilation and RevFaafetaiKoria with direction, not four extra soloists. Source: Malua Theological College. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
Piula Theological College choir Samoan Medley- Piula Theological College, 2025. https://www.youtube.com/embed/-GUVVpWScdE Samoan medley at National University of Samoa TVET graduation2025. Actual theological college ensemble; Norris Latu Asi is the video credit, not asserted singer. One medley counts once. Source: EFKS Sinamoga.. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2025-12-19; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[10] traditional unknown 2025 live unknown country:samoa supported Recording/context source Samoan medley at National University of Samoa TVET graduation2025. Actual theological college ensemble; Norris Latu Asi is the video credit, not asserted singer. One medley counts once. Source: EFKS Sinamoga.. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
EFKS Vinifou Choir Pese 136 : E Lou Alii Ua Ou Sese (Faamagalo Samoa) | EFKS Vinifou (Track 9) https://www.youtube.com/embed/M2RphfCwDGI E Lou Alii Ua Ou Sese/Pese136 from How Great Thou Art. FloWendt is composer and AeauLeotaTimaLeavai arranger; MisaPikiLeavai and LagiStricklandLeavai are tribute honorees. Actual recorded choir remains EFKS Vinifou. Source: EFKS Vinifou Official . Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2021-08-24; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[11] traditional unknown unknown unknown unknown country:samoa supported Recording/context source E Lou Alii Ua Ou Sese/Pese136 from How Great Thou Art. FloWendt is composer and AeauLeotaTimaLeavai arranger; MisaPikiLeavai and LagiStricklandLeavai are tribute honorees. Actual recorded choir remains EFKS Vinifou. Source: EFKS Vinifou Official . Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
Ofisa I Fogaa Choir Ofisa Fogaa Choir | Dedication Song Fetū Samoa & Toa Samoa World Cup Squads | Faanānā Jerome Grey 🇼🇸 https://www.youtube.com/embed/AcmYN5wmFTw FaanānāJeromeGrey’s ManuSamoa rearranged/rewritten by RevTalaleleiMatau for FetūSamoa and ToaSamoa. Actual ministers-and-wives choir at the national sendoff/blessing ceremony Apia7October2026; original composer and officiant are not automatically singers. Source: OfisaFaleulaEvents. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2026-10-07; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[12] traditional unknown 2026-10-07 live unknown country:samoa supported Recording/context source FaanānāJeromeGrey’s ManuSamoa rearranged/rewritten by RevTalaleleiMatau for FetūSamoa and ToaSamoa. Actual ministers-and-wives choir at the national sendoff/blessing ceremony Apia7October2026; original composer and officiant are not automatically singers. Source: OfisaFaleulaEvents. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
Piula Methodist Theological College choir 64th Independence: Day 3 - Kolisi Faafaifeau Metotisi i Piula https://www.youtube.com/embed/6SZ4N2EzcCY Choir’s programme during Samoa64thIndependence thanksgiving celebration31May2026. Distinct event from2024PiulaPese53 and2025NUSmedley. One continuous programme counts once. Source: Talamua Media. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2026-05-31; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[13] traditional unknown 2026-05-31 live unknown country:samoa supported Recording/context source Choir’s programme during Samoa64thIndependence thanksgiving celebration31May2026. Distinct event from2024PiulaPese53 and2025NUSmedley. One continuous programme counts once. Source: Talamua Media. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Samoa choir #PESE: 🎶 Ekalesia ‘a Iesu Keriso le ’Au Paia ‘o Aso ’e Gata Ai - Sāmoa 64th Independce 2026 https://www.youtube.com/embed/VTgxupLr8mI Named Samoan church choir’s contribution to64thIndependence thanksgiving service2026. Publisher radio is not the ensemble; alternate camera HqsIZwJFKn0 of this contribution is not selected. Source: Sāmoa Capital Radio. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2026-05-31; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[14] traditional unknown 2026 live unknown country:samoa supported Recording/context source Named Samoan church choir’s contribution to64thIndependence thanksgiving service2026. Publisher radio is not the ensemble; alternate camera HqsIZwJFKn0 of this contribution is not selected. Source: Sāmoa Capital Radio. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
Piula & Malua Theological College choirs CHOGM 2024 | Samoa National Anthem Sung by Piula and Malua Theological College https://www.youtube.com/embed/1a4xZkEMoUI Samoa national anthem at CHOGM2024, actual combined choirs. A brief complete ceremonial song is useful music, not excluded merely for duration; no sameevent full-show duplicate included. Source: Cuatro Media Samoa. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2024-10-25; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[15] traditional unknown 2024 live unknown country:samoa supported Recording/context source Samoa national anthem at CHOGM2024, actual combined choirs. A brief complete ceremonial song is useful music, not excluded merely for duration; no sameevent full-show duplicate included. Source: Cuatro Media Samoa. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
American Samoa Choir (director Pati Pati Jr.) American Samoa Choir Steals the Show at FestPAC 2024! (Contemporary Music) https://www.youtube.com/embed/XtLDSZM3Cd8 Distinct named Hawaii2024 event programmes by the American Samoa delegation choir: Kawaiaha’oChurch contemporary music and KananaFouheritage-week church respectively. Actual communal repertoire, one programme each. Hawaii host location is not falsely treated as Hawaiian origin. Source: Inatioletalalelei. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2024-06-13; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[16] traditional unknown 2024 live unknown region:world-samoan-islands supported Recording/context source Distinct named Hawaii2024 event programmes by the American Samoa delegation choir: Kawaiaha’oChurch contemporary music and KananaFouheritage-week church respectively. Actual communal repertoire, one programme each. Hawaii host location is not falsely treated as Hawaiian origin. Source: Inatioletalalelei. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
American Samoa Choir (director Pati Pati Jr.) American Samoa Choir Makes Lasting Impression in Hawaii with Final Performance (Heritage Sunday) https://www.youtube.com/embed/QSJoTHSgiTc Distinct named Hawaii2024 event programmes by the American Samoa delegation choir: Kawaiaha’oChurch contemporary music and KananaFouheritage-week church respectively. Actual communal repertoire, one programme each. Hawaii host location is not falsely treated as Hawaiian origin. Source: Inatioletalalelei. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2024-06-18; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[17] traditional unknown 2024 live unknown region:world-samoan-islands supported Recording/context source Distinct named Hawaii2024 event programmes by the American Samoa delegation choir: Kawaiaha’oChurch contemporary music and KananaFouheritage-week church respectively. Actual communal repertoire, one programme each. Hawaii host location is not falsely treated as Hawaiian origin. Source: Inatioletalalelei. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
American Samoa Choir (director Pati Pati Jr.) Voices in Harmony: American Samoa Choir Uplifts FestPAC 2024 Ecumenical Ceremony. https://www.youtube.com/embed/wm7UvaoU5v4 LeAliiEUaOuFaalogo/MethodistHymn65 followed by adopted HawaiiAloha at FestPACecumenical service2024. Actual choir, pianist MalosiTanieluLui and percussionists Papali’iVeni/JermaineTuiasosopo named; honest mixedprogramme, not pure traditional Samoan repertoire. Source: Inatioletalalelei. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2024-06-15; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[18] traditional unknown 2024 live unknown region:world-samoan-islands supported Recording/context source LeAliiEUaOuFaalogo/MethodistHymn65 followed by adopted HawaiiAloha at FestPACecumenical service2024. Actual choir, pianist MalosiTanieluLui and percussionists Papali’iVeni/JermaineTuiasosopo named; honest mixedprogramme, not pure traditional Samoan repertoire. Source: Inatioletalalelei. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
Amerika Samoa Arts Council Choir Ua ou vivii ma faafetai (Amerika Samoa Arts Council Choir) https://www.youtube.com/embed/zKdaj6yZBH8 Named AmericanSamoa community choir, distinct identified hymns/anthem/communal pieces. Source broadcaster KVZKTV and reuploaders are not singers. Original session dates unknown despite2025uploads; no fullconcert parent selected. Source: Jack Seumanutafa. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2025-11-29; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[19] traditional unknown unknown live unknown region:world-samoan-islands supported Recording/context source Named AmericanSamoa community choir, distinct identified hymns/anthem/communal pieces. Source broadcaster KVZKTV and reuploaders are not singers. Original session dates unknown despite2025uploads; no fullconcert parent selected. Source: Jack Seumanutafa. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
Amerika Samoa Arts Council Choir Le Alii e , le Atua e (Amerika Samoa Arts Council Choir) https://www.youtube.com/embed/AcGFZqXSadk Named AmericanSamoa community choir, distinct identified hymns/anthem/communal pieces. Source broadcaster KVZKTV and reuploaders are not singers. Original session dates unknown despite2025uploads; no fullconcert parent selected. Source: Jack Seumanutafa. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2025-11-29; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[20] traditional unknown unknown live unknown region:world-samoan-islands supported Recording/context source Named AmericanSamoa community choir, distinct identified hymns/anthem/communal pieces. Source broadcaster KVZKTV and reuploaders are not singers. Original session dates unknown despite2025uploads; no fullconcert parent selected. Source: Jack Seumanutafa. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
Amerika Samoa Arts Council Choir American Samoa Arts Council Choir: Vii o Amerika Samoa https://www.youtube.com/embed/maRvlqXlcB8 Named AmericanSamoa community choir, distinct identified hymns/anthem/communal pieces. Source broadcaster KVZKTV and reuploaders are not singers. Original session dates unknown despite2025uploads; no fullconcert parent selected. Source: sf02v. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2025-04-24; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[21] traditional unknown unknown live unknown region:world-samoan-islands supported Recording/context source Named AmericanSamoa community choir, distinct identified hymns/anthem/communal pieces. Source broadcaster KVZKTV and reuploaders are not singers. Original session dates unknown despite2025uploads; no fullconcert parent selected. Source: sf02v. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
Amerika Samoa Arts Council Choir American Samoa Arts Council Choir: Ua Lologo https://www.youtube.com/embed/lGJ5Zg-OzJ8 Named AmericanSamoa community choir, distinct identified hymns/anthem/communal pieces. Source broadcaster KVZKTV and reuploaders are not singers. Original session dates unknown despite2025uploads; no fullconcert parent selected. Source: sf02v. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2025-04-24; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[22] traditional unknown unknown live unknown region:world-samoan-islands supported Recording/context source Named AmericanSamoa community choir, distinct identified hymns/anthem/communal pieces. Source broadcaster KVZKTV and reuploaders are not singers. Original session dates unknown despite2025uploads; no fullconcert parent selected. Source: sf02v. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
New Zealand Youth Choir (director David Squire) Ua Fetausunu'i Ao (Clouds are Gathering), Trad. Samoan arr. Tuilagi Dr Igelese Ete - NZ Youth Choir https://www.youtube.com/embed/0fQ92I_ikI0 UaFetausunu’iAo, traditional Samoan song arranged by TuilagiDrIgeleseEte, sung at HolyTrinityCathedral2025. Actual national youth choir’s adopted Samoan repertoire, not a Maori work inferred from publisher nationality. Source: NZ Youth Choir. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2026-03-31; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[23] traditional unknown 2025 live unknown country:newzealand supported Recording/context source UaFetausunu’iAo, traditional Samoan song arranged by TuilagiDrIgeleseEte, sung at HolyTrinityCathedral2025. Actual national youth choir’s adopted Samoan repertoire, not a Maori work inferred from publisher nationality. Source: NZ Youth Choir. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
Dilworth School Fortissimo (director Jacob Moore) Dilworth School, Fortissimo | Vi’i o Kiliuati^ – Maoiautele Pule Tusa, arr. Jacob Moore https://www.youtube.com/embed/iDEOyfmD99s TheBigSing identified Samoan communal/choral work in NewZealand. Vi’i o Kiliuati, MaoiautelePuleTusa, arrangedJacobMoore; actual percussionists JacobMoore/DavidStent. Distinct choir/year/work interpretation, with actual performers separated from composers/arrangers. Source: New Zealand Choral Federation. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2026-08-27; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[24] traditional unknown 2026 live unknown country:newzealand supported Recording/context source TheBigSing identified Samoan communal/choral work in NewZealand. Vi’i o Kiliuati, MaoiautelePuleTusa, arrangedJacobMoore; actual percussionists JacobMoore/DavidStent. Distinct choir/year/work interpretation, with actual performers separated from composers/arrangers. Source: New Zealand Choral Federation. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
Tawa College Blue Notes (director Isaac Stone) Tawa College, Blue Notes | Lo’u Fesoasoani^ – Helen Tupai, arr. H. Tupai, J. Tupai & J. Tupai https://www.youtube.com/embed/Jps4aFK1xwU TheBigSing identified Samoan communal/choral work in NewZealand. Lo’uFesoasoani byHelenTupai, arrangedH/J/JTupai; actual pianistRachelMalcolmSwindells. Distinct choir/year/work interpretation, with actual performers separated from composers/arrangers. Source: New Zealand Choral Federation. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2026-08-27; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[25] traditional unknown 2026 live unknown country:newzealand supported Recording/context source TheBigSing identified Samoan communal/choral work in NewZealand. Lo’uFesoasoani byHelenTupai, arrangedH/J/JTupai; actual pianistRachelMalcolmSwindells. Distinct choir/year/work interpretation, with actual performers separated from composers/arrangers. Source: New Zealand Choral Federation. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
Manurewa High School Rewaken Polycation Choir Manurewa High School, Rewaken Polycation Choir | Vi’i o ‘Ā’oga Maualuga o Manurewa – Bronson Tamafai https://www.youtube.com/embed/k8zjTPmA_CA TheBigSing identified Samoan communal/choral work in NewZealand. Vi’i o AogaMaualuga oManurewa byBronsonTamafai; directorsLeaaesolaVuna/SusanaMalewa/TusiSaylieMose. Distinct choir/year/work interpretation, with actual performers separated from composers/arrangers. Source: New Zealand Choral Federation. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2024-08-29; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[26] traditional unknown 2024 live unknown country:newzealand supported Recording/context source TheBigSing identified Samoan communal/choral work in NewZealand. Vi’i o AogaMaualuga oManurewa byBronsonTamafai; directorsLeaaesolaVuna/SusanaMalewa/TusiSaylieMose. Distinct choir/year/work interpretation, with actual performers separated from composers/arrangers. Source: New Zealand Choral Federation. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
Macleans College Chorale (director Sarah McNabb) Macleans College, Macleans College Chorale | Tate Le Fia Manatua – arr. Steven Rapana https://www.youtube.com/embed/Pflncd11e08 TheBigSing identified Samoan communal/choral work in NewZealand. TateLeFiaManatua, traditionalSamoan arrangedStevenRapana. Distinct choir/year/work interpretation, with actual performers separated from composers/arrangers. Source: New Zealand Choral Federation. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2025-08-29; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[27] traditional unknown 2025 live unknown country:newzealand supported Recording/context source TheBigSing identified Samoan communal/choral work in NewZealand. TateLeFiaManatua, traditionalSamoan arrangedStevenRapana. Distinct choir/year/work interpretation, with actual performers separated from composers/arrangers. Source: New Zealand Choral Federation. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
St Patrick’s College Con Anima (directors Mark Bobb & Roger Powdrell) St Patrick’s College, Con Anima | Le Tu’una Oe – Josh Tatofi, arr. Helen Tupaiand Jadrah Tupai https://www.youtube.com/embed/-nQn_SraY8E TheBigSing identified Samoan communal/choral work in NewZealand. LeTu’unaOe byJoshTatofi, arrangedHelenTupai/JadrahTupai; actual choir adaptation. Distinct choir/year/work interpretation, with actual performers separated from composers/arrangers. Source: New Zealand Choral Federation. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2025-08-28; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[28] traditional unknown 2025 live unknown country:newzealand supported Recording/context source TheBigSing identified Samoan communal/choral work in NewZealand. LeTu’unaOe byJoshTatofi, arrangedHelenTupai/JadrahTupai; actual choir adaptation. Distinct choir/year/work interpretation, with actual performers separated from composers/arrangers. Source: New Zealand Choral Federation. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
Westlake Boys & Girls Choralation (director Fiona Wilson) Westlake Boys & Westlake Girls High School, Choralation | Laumei Faiaga – People of Vaitogi village https://www.youtube.com/embed/eUnTL2WnXak TheBigSing identified Samoan communal/choral work in NewZealand. LaumeiFaiaga, source identifies PeopleofVaitogivillage AmericanSamoa, arrangedElishaFaiSooialo. Distinct choir/year/work interpretation, with actual performers separated from composers/arrangers. Source: New Zealand Choral Federation. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2025-08-28; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[29] traditional unknown 2025 live unknown country:newzealand supported Recording/context source TheBigSing identified Samoan communal/choral work in NewZealand. LaumeiFaiaga, source identifies PeopleofVaitogivillage AmericanSamoa, arrangedElishaFaiSooialo. Distinct choir/year/work interpretation, with actual performers separated from composers/arrangers. Source: New Zealand Choral Federation. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
Saint Kentigern College Kentoris (director Matthew Leese) Saint Kentigern College, Kentoris | Tate le fia Manatua^ – trad. Samoan https://www.youtube.com/embed/SRCzT7xb1qI TheBigSing identified Samoan communal/choral work in NewZealand. TateLeFiaManatua, traditionalSamoan arrangedStevenRapana/BensonWilson; actual percussionIvanZhang/MatthewLeese. Distinct choir/year/work interpretation, with actual performers separated from composers/arrangers. Source: New Zealand Choral Federation. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2026-08-27; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[30] traditional unknown 2026 live unknown country:newzealand supported Recording/context source TheBigSing identified Samoan communal/choral work in NewZealand. TateLeFiaManatua, traditionalSamoan arrangedStevenRapana/BensonWilson; actual percussionIvanZhang/MatthewLeese. Distinct choir/year/work interpretation, with actual performers separated from composers/arrangers. Source: New Zealand Choral Federation. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
Palmerston North Boys’ High School MANifesto (director Graeme Young) Palmerston North Boys’ High School, MANifesto | Mauga O Le Atuolo^ – trad. Samoan https://www.youtube.com/embed/1h8KyYIYAm4 TheBigSing identified Samoan communal/choral work in NewZealand. MaugaOLeAtuolo, traditionalSamoan arrangedBenjaminViljoen; actual patePaulDredge. Distinct choir/year/work interpretation, with actual performers separated from composers/arrangers. Source: New Zealand Choral Federation. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2026-08-28; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[31] traditional unknown 2026 live unknown country:newzealand supported Recording/context source TheBigSing identified Samoan communal/choral work in NewZealand. MaugaOLeAtuolo, traditionalSamoan arrangedBenjaminViljoen; actual patePaulDredge. Distinct choir/year/work interpretation, with actual performers separated from composers/arrangers. Source: New Zealand Choral Federation. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
Epsom Girls Grammar School Paradisum (director Virginia Le Cren) Epsom Girls Grammar School, Paradisum | Tupulaga Samoa^ – Juliana Lologa & Joyce Toleafoa https://www.youtube.com/embed/CzDgRYDpxqw TheBigSing identified Samoan communal/choral work in NewZealand. TupulagaSamoa byJulianaSopoagaLologa/JoyceLouiseToleafoa; guitarPeterLeCren, percussionMatthewSpooner/TakereiKomene. Distinct choir/year/work interpretation, with actual performers separated from composers/arrangers. Source: New Zealand Choral Federation. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2026-08-29; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[32] traditional unknown 2026 live unknown country:newzealand supported Recording/context source TheBigSing identified Samoan communal/choral work in NewZealand. TupulagaSamoa byJulianaSopoagaLologa/JoyceLouiseToleafoa; guitarPeterLeCren, percussionMatthewSpooner/TakereiKomene. Distinct choir/year/work interpretation, with actual performers separated from composers/arrangers. Source: New Zealand Choral Federation. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false
St Cuthbert’s School Saints Alive (director Denzel Panama) St Cuthbert’s School, Saints Alive | Tofa Mai Feleni – trad. Samoan, arr. Steven Rapana https://www.youtube.com/embed/VWb-Gb_QyZ4 TheBigSing identified Samoan communal/choral work in NewZealand. TofaMaiFeleni, traditionalSamoan arrangedStevenRapana. Distinct choir/year/work interpretation, with actual performers separated from composers/arrangers. Source: New Zealand Choral Federation. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. Video publication: 2025-08-28; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 22 October 2026.[33] traditional unknown 2025 live unknown country:newzealand supported Recording/context source TheBigSing identified Samoan communal/choral work in NewZealand. TofaMaiFeleni, traditionalSamoan arrangedStevenRapana. Distinct choir/year/work interpretation, with actual performers separated from composers/arrangers. Source: New Zealand Choral Federation. Video publication is separate from original/session date; unknown dates retained. false false false

Related genres

Siva and other Samoan dance practices often depend on singing without making all pese dance music. Samoan hymnody is a major branch, while gospel, popular ballad and contemporary Pacific pop have additional histories. Other Polynesian choral traditions share experiences of missionisation and local adaptation but have distinct musical systems. The generic English word choir can obscure those differences. Keeping Samoan pese as a practice-family entry allows discovery across sacred and secular song while individual works and ensembles provide the specificity that a broad label cannot supply.

References and further reading

  1. ↑ Music from Western Samoa, Smithsonian Folkways.
  2. ↑ E Lanu Moana: teacher notes — Elisha Faʻi-Soʻoialo, New Zealand Choral Federation.
  3. ↑ Choir of the Congregational Christian Church, Grey Lynn, Auckland — Lupematasila Melani Anae, Te Ara.
  4. ↑ EFKS Vaiala Choir — Lagi Ia Lau Pese — Pese o le Me (2022). YouTube recording; metadata checked 2026-10-18.
  5. ↑ Choir of Western Samoa Teachers’ Training College — Lota Nu’u Ua Ou Fanau Ai. YouTube recording; metadata checked 2026-10-18.
  6. ↑ Dilworth School, Fortissimo | Pese O Le Tatau - trad. Samoan, arr. Jacob Moore.
  7. ↑ 3. Pese 73 EFKS / Pese 63 EFKS.
  8. ↑ Pese Metotisi 53 - Piula Theological Choir.
  9. ↑ O le sao o Malua, i le tatalaina o le 64 tausaga Tuto'atasi o Samoa 2026.
  10. ↑ Samoan Medley- Piula Theological College, 2025..
  11. ↑ Pese 136 : E Lou Alii Ua Ou Sese (Faamagalo Samoa) | EFKS Vinifou (Track 9).
  12. ↑ Ofisa Fogaa Choir | Dedication Song Fetū Samoa & Toa Samoa World Cup Squads | Faanānā Jerome Grey 🇼🇸.
  13. ↑ 64th Independence: Day 3 - Kolisi Faafaifeau Metotisi i Piula.
  14. ↑ #PESE: 🎶 Ekalesia ‘a Iesu Keriso le ’Au Paia ‘o Aso ’e Gata Ai - Sāmoa 64th Independce 2026.
  15. ↑ CHOGM 2024 | Samoa National Anthem Sung by Piula and Malua Theological College.
  16. ↑ American Samoa Choir Steals the Show at FestPAC 2024! (Contemporary Music).
  17. ↑ American Samoa Choir Makes Lasting Impression in Hawaii with Final Performance (Heritage Sunday).
  18. ↑ Voices in Harmony: American Samoa Choir Uplifts FestPAC 2024 Ecumenical Ceremony..
  19. ↑ Ua ou vivii ma faafetai (Amerika Samoa Arts Council Choir).
  20. ↑ Le Alii e , le Atua e (Amerika Samoa Arts Council Choir).
  21. ↑ American Samoa Arts Council Choir: Vii o Amerika Samoa.
  22. ↑ American Samoa Arts Council Choir: Ua Lologo.
  23. ↑ Ua Fetausunu'i Ao (Clouds are Gathering), Trad. Samoan arr. Tuilagi Dr Igelese Ete - NZ Youth Choir.
  24. ↑ Dilworth School, Fortissimo | Vi’i o Kiliuati^ – Maoiautele Pule Tusa, arr. Jacob Moore.
  25. ↑ Tawa College, Blue Notes | Lo’u Fesoasoani^ – Helen Tupai, arr. H. Tupai, J. Tupai & J. Tupai.
  26. ↑ Manurewa High School, Rewaken Polycation Choir | Vi’i o ‘Ā’oga Maualuga o Manurewa – Bronson Tamafai.
  27. ↑ Macleans College, Macleans College Chorale | Tate Le Fia Manatua – arr. Steven Rapana.
  28. ↑ St Patrick’s College, Con Anima | Le Tu’una Oe – Josh Tatofi, arr. Helen Tupaiand Jadrah Tupai.
  29. ↑ Westlake Boys & Westlake Girls High School, Choralation | Laumei Faiaga – People of Vaitogi village.
  30. ↑ Saint Kentigern College, Kentoris | Tate le fia Manatua^ – trad. Samoan.
  31. ↑ Palmerston North Boys’ High School, MANifesto | Mauga O Le Atuolo^ – trad. Samoan.
  32. ↑ Epsom Girls Grammar School, Paradisum | Tupulaga Samoa^ – Juliana Lologa & Joyce Toleafoa.
  33. ↑ St Cuthbert’s School, Saints Alive | Tofa Mai Feleni – trad. Samoan, arr. Steven Rapana.

Hotspot mushrooms

A connected Samoan island home region coexists with substantial New Zealand and eastern-Australian diaspora singing institutions. Broad fields include village/family life rather than capital choir addresses or recording-studio dots.

These fields are editorial illustrations of musical affinity and cultural reach, not listener statistics. Radius marks the zero edge of the fade; overlapping fields of this genre combine by maximum.

MuGlobe hotspot mushrooms
ID Location Latitude Longitude Radius (km) Strength Notes
samoan-pese-samoa Samoan islands communal-song landscapes -13.9 -171.6 550 1 Upolu, Savaiʻi, Tutuila and connected communities rather than a single metropolitan centre.
samoan-pese-new-zealand New Zealand Samoan choral and family networks -38.4 174.9 850 0.72 Auckland and other durable diaspora communities with local creation and institutions.
samoan-pese-australia Eastern Australian Samoan song communities -32 151.5 1000 0.48 Sustained church, family and cultural teaching across diaspora networks.
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