THERE is a need to revive old and classic Rotuman songs so youths nowadays would understand they have a unique culture.
This is the view of Dr Aisea Rafai, 83, who is one of the elders, probably survivors of the Roupure clan in the Itutiu district of Rotuma.
This unique Rotuman culture is hidden in many of these songs, which a few members of the Roupure clan are trying to revive so youths would better understand the songs that were once the pride of their ancestors. The new album to be released soon is named Takmatarua — the battleground of the Roupure clan.
“It is important to revive old Rotuman songs because it gives our youths a better understanding of their culture and tradition many of which are highlighted in these songs,” Dr Rafai said.
“The songs hold significant importance to the Rotuman people and many youths nowadays listen to English and the latest Fijian songs without knowing that the original Rotuman songs are more interesting and meanigful.
“They tell tales and stories about what Rotuma is known for and the strong ties we have among each other.”
Wit hthe help of veteran Fiji jazz legend Tom Mawi and other: Sami Mawi, Faga Joseph, Nataniela Kamilo, Freddy and Dan Rafai, the band is ready to provide entertainment to not only the Rotuman community but others who are interested in learning about the Rotuman culture.
Dr Rafai said there were also many Rotumans living abroad who were interested in such initiatives and they couldn’t wait to know more about the classic Rotuman songs and at least learn more about their origin as told in some of these songs. Most of the songs were written way back in the early 1800s and the band members would also like to acknowledge the original composers of the songs.
The uniqueness of this album’s that the songs would be kept in their original form as band members did not want to take away the real meaning of the songs.
“I would like to urge every Rotuman out there to keep a lookout as the band’s ready to provide you with the best entertainment which we could all learn from especially in recognising many of our unique cultures which many of us are not aware of nowadays,” Dr Rafai said.
