Solomon Islands singer Charles Maimarosia is bringing an innovative and original blend of Solomon Islands tradition and contemporary music culture to Melbourne Recital Centre on Saturday May 18.
Speaking to me from his home studio, where the musician does most of his music creation and rehearsals, Charles Maimarosia reflects on his songwriting, music making, and the upcoming show at Melbourne Recital Centre. “I’ll be performing a blend of contemporary musical styles woven with traditional elements,” he says of the performance on May 18. “Expect to hear a fusion of modern sounds with traditional melodies and rhythms, creating a unique and captivating musical experience.”
Hailing from the remote Pipisu village of Malaita, Maimarosia’s music is inspired by the rich traditional music ofꞌAreꞌare culture, as well as contemporary references. Pointing out that he’s influenced by everything from his own musical journey and experiences to learning modern music techniques through the internet, Maimarosia’s sound is as unique in its innovation as it is heartfelt in its acknowledgement of tradition.
Charles Maimarosia
- Saturday May 18
- Melbourne Recital Centre
- You can buy tickets here
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“My upbringing in Pipisu village deeply influences my music,” he says, “incorporating traditional sounds and stories passed down by elders.” Through the incorporation of traditional Solomon Island instruments, such as pan flutes, bamboo percussion and guitar, Maimarosia is drawing a history of sound of where he has come from, and where he finds himself now. “The experiences [that inspire me], such as paddling my dugout canoe and singing in church, shape the themes and authenticity of my music.”
It’s this meaningful authenticity that makes Maimarosia’s music so emotive in its ability to connect to audiences. ꞌAreꞌare music – which comes from the ꞌAreꞌare people of the Solomon Islands – is the major throughline in all of Maimarosia’s work, which he then blends this historical richness of tradition together with contemporary references and sounds. “The music I play is a celebration of cultural heritage and a bridge between the traditional and the modern,” Maimarosia says. “By sharing the stories and wisdom of my community [and] family, I aim to foster connections that transcend cultural boundaries and promote greater appreciation for the diversity of human experience.”
This seamless interweaving of the contemporary and the traditional unfolds like a carefully considered balancing act of sonic exploration in Maimarosia’s music. By referencing and honouring his culture’s history in his art, the musician is able to weave “together ancient stories, poems, and cultural wisdom, fostering greater understanding and appreciation for diverse traditions.”
It’s no surprise the final product is as heartfelt as it is – with the themes of Maimarosia’s work exploring love, identity and the beauty of nature – considering that much of the inspiration for the foundation of his music and lyrics come from the words, poems and stories passed down to Maimarosia by elders. “These narratives, combined with the music created by Andrew Robinson and collaboration with other musicians, form the basis of my lyrical explorations.”
Collaboration is an important part of the process for Maimarosia, with the beautifully moving song Haiamasina, a standout of an example in which the musician has worked with other artists to bring the music to life. “Collaboration plays a crucial role in my music-making process,” he says. “For Haiamasina, Andrew Robinson handled music production, while musicians like Emmanuel Hakalitz, David Bridie, and Rosie Excess contributed their talents. It’s a collective effort, with each member bringing their unique skills to create a cohesive piece.”
Those lucky enough to see Maimarosia play at the Melbourne Recital Centre on May 18 will get the opportunity to pay witness to his moving style of music and storytelling in what is sure to be a collective experience of sharing and connection through art. When I ask Maimarosia what attendees can expect from the show, he says that the musical journey will be “a mesmerizing fusion of ꞌAreꞌare traditional music and contemporary styles, including the enchanting sounds of the ꞌAreꞌare panpipes.” It’s sure to be a night of evocative music, emotive reception, and innovative sounds and storytelling that guarantees to forge nothing but new paths forward.
You can buy tickets to Charles Maimarosia at the Melbourne Recital Centre here.
