It wasn’t just a flea market in Raiwaqa, but a chance to expose raw young music talent as children below 16 years, vying for the top spot, took to the microphone to perform in front of friends and family at the neighbourhood talent quest.
Organised by the community RRArt club, young children took to the stage to sing a song of their choice.
The little serenades, who voices echoed through the old Raiwaqa Market car park venue, signified a new age and that music was truly well and alive in Raiwaqa.
The flea market hosted live band performances coupled with assorted food stalls, plants, handicraft and clothing on sale. For generations, dating back to the ‘70s, the Raiwaqa suburban community has produced world-class musicians such as George (Fiji) Veikoso and local legendary band Roostrata.
Even veteran musicians Ken Janson speaks highly of the neighbourhood he once regularly visited in the ‘70s and the biggest musical influences that shaped his own musical fame.
RRArt president Vincent Burese said the talent quest was a way to provide a platform for the youngsters.
“This is our second talent quest and it’s a way of getting to expose young raw talent to the world of stage performances.
The turn-out was amazing and if you think these kids just sing in the bathroom, think again,” said Mr Burese.
Club’s talent quest organiser Raf Kasibuli and Tui Lui say mentoring the young ones to maintain composure while on the key was one thing, but building the confidence to perform in front of a crowd was another.
“While every contestant was nervous to perform, at the end of the day, it was all about showcasing their talents and hopefully these kids gain the confidence to keep singing,” said Mr Lui.
“This neighbourhood has been known for its many generations and genre of music.”
Stage tech owner Jerry Vatuwaqa, son of legendary ‘70s musician Viliame Vatuwaqa, says he continues to supports talents by providing instruments, lights and sound.
“There’s a lot of talented young music people in Raiwaqa and with my expertise I hope to help showcase them to the world just like we did during the Play For Change Concert that was television world-wide in Raiwaqa.”
