SOLOMON Islands very own Narasirato panpipe band has returned from Papua New Guinea after a successful and historic trip two weeks ago.
The band was invited by the PNG government, to perform in Port Moresby at the closing ceremony of the Pacific Games.
Speaking to the Solomon Star yesterday, band manager John Bosco Hou said, before their substantial show at the close of the games, the group also took part in other invitational appearances around Port Moresby.
“During our two weeks stay in Port Moresby, we performed few shows apart from the main one at the closing.
“We performed on an Independence Anniversary celebration organized by SI Acting high Commissioner to PNG and Team Solomon, perform at Lamana Hotel for SI/PNG Committee fundraising, did perform for Minister for Sports for Kaugere, South Moresby and Team PNG, did a performance for Governor Powes Parkop’s “ Walk for Life” event and the Ela Beach community,” Mr Hou said.
He added that, they nearly missed out from the lineup that was scheduled for the closing ceremony, but luckily due to the uniqueness and the different style of music they played, they were given the okay to showcase at the close of the games.
Mr Hou told this paper that their trip to PNG was historical and successful because they have been invited by the PNG government, something that he and the boys are proud of.
“It was a very successful and enjoyable trip to PNG, by 15 Narasirato band members.
“We are so fortunate to represent Solomon Islands on such event and people really liked our performance.
“We are also promoting our cultural music and country to our brothers and sisters from the Pacific, during the games.
“Because, our culture is our pride and identity,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Narasirato panpipe band has been touring places like Vanuatu, Fiji, Australia, England, Norway, Denmark, Portugal, Germany, France, Malaysia, Taiwan, South Korea, Japan and other countries in the world.
The PNG tour is another country to add onto their destination list.
By RONALD TOITO’ONA
