ORGANISERS of the Aelan Riddim Music Festival (ARMF) are planning to expand the festival’s reach far across the Melanesian region as part of their efforts to unite Melanesian music artists and promote their music.
ARMF Event Director Terence Rini spoke of this initiative during a press conference held at Our Telekom Conference Room in Point Cruz on Wednesday.
The press conference was to welcome the 10 famous artists from Papua New Guinea (PNG) to the country to perform at the ARMF Festival at Pacific Crown Hotel this Saturday.
“Hopefully, this expansion will open doors for collaboration. If we, as Melanesians, start working together, I believe ARMF can grow into something much bigger,” Rini said.
He expressed optimism that neighbouring Melanesian territories/countries such as New Caledonia, Fiji and Vanuatu, would join the movement, which currently comprises PNG and Solomon Islands.
“Maybe some of our Melanesian brothers and sisters in these territories/countries would want to get involved,” Rini added.
Rini emphasised the festival’s potential to elevate the Melanesian-sub region’s music industry.
“The festival can open many doors, and I believe it will only raise the level of music across Melanesia. In my opinion, the Solomon Islands has always been at the forefront of Melanesian music. This is a great opportunity for us to meet, connect and collaborate with artists here and beyond.”
He also highlighted the potential for broader opportunities.
“Hopefully, this initiative will encourage others to jump on board and support the ARMF,” he added.
Rini said ARMF is on the right track and will provide more opportunities for Melanesian artists to showcase their music talent.
“We are working to establish the festival as an annual event, further solidifying its place in the [sub-Melanesian] region’s cultural landscape,” he said.
Music enthusiasts are encouraged to grab their tickets and enjoy the first ARMF.
The ARMF has attracted big sponsors like Coke, Air Nuigini and Our Telekom.
By LACHLAN SHYVES EDDIE
Solomon Star, Honiara
