22 May 2025
The Ōtautahi Pasifika Legacy Project is the first collaboration between the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra (CSO) and Pacific Underground. The one-night-only event promises to deliver a blend of orchestral music and Pasifika harmonies at the Christchurch Town Hall on Thursday 22 May.
Pacific Underground are no strangers to breaking new ground and creating innovative works that amplify Pasifika stories. With decades of experience in theatre and music, they have consistently opened doors for Pasifika artists across Aotearoa and internationally.
Dr. Graham Sattler, Chief Executive of the CSO, says the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to storytelling and supporting emerging talent.
“While this collaboration has been a long time coming, it is one that is very dear to CSO’s heart. We are passionate about supporting, facilitating, and presenting the music of our community, and the opportunity to connect directly with the richness of the Ōtautahi Pasifika musical legacy is a real honour, one we are looking forward to.”
“Pacific Underground’s musical and cultural heritage is quite amazing, and we are honoured and excited to collaborate with a cohort of such extraordinary creatives in celebration of its 30 years of passionate musical and artistic talent,” Dr Sattler says.
The concert also marks the first time CSO will be conducted by a Pasifika conductor, Samiu Uatahausi, a milestone made possible through the partnership between Creative New Zealand Pacific Arts and the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra (NZSO), where Samiu has been training and developing his skills.
As the Guest Conductor for the night, Samiu is excited to put practice to performance.
"My training with the NZSO has been invaluable in preparing me for this moment. Being up on the podium is a huge moment for me, and I hope it inspires other Pasifika musicians too. It means a lot to have this chance, and I can’t wait to share it with everyone,” says Samiu.
Makerita Urale, Senior Manager Pacific Arts, is proud to see the strategic partnership with NZSO actively advancing Pasifika conductors by offering training and opportunities to showcase their talents, with Samiu being one of its emerging talents.
“It’s exciting to see our Pasifika conductors take the podium and lead with confidence because they’ve been nurtured through this partnership. Recently, we also had Tevite Tonga, who served as guest conductor with Signature Choir and the NZSO for Mana Moana 2025.”
“Fa’afetai to the CSO team, our partners at the NZSO, and congratulations to Pacific Underground on this pioneering project. We know this is the start of many collaborations to come,” says Makerita.
Tickets for Ōtautahi Pasifika Legacy Project is available here
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