Traditional music of French Polynesia

The traditional orchestras, Heiva best orchestra contest has always been the end of one hard work year so as a true rostrum where one can prove his talent; musicians qualities, rapidity of execution, melodies originality or on the contrary tribute to old melodies clothes.

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Subsequently in 1998, the contest is divided into two main parts; a compulsory program and a free program. The compulsory program could be seen as five musicians, five different instruments and five pieces that must be played with the most clearness and rigor as possible. As for the free program, it privilegiates original making but also emphasizes on pieces complex, instruments and tones differences.

Though it is imported from the Cook Island, the to’ere that exists in three various sizes has becomes the Polynesian drumming par excellence, perfectly integrating itself to pre-existing groups. This creation in rosewood ortamanu demands a great quickness and a fine ear from the sculptor in order to get the more just and large sounds only while changing the hitting point.

The tari parau is a kind of Polynesian bass drum for its hit with a felt drumstick and produces bass and dull tones. This can also be hit with hands to give little offbeat or to make a weak vibrations.

The pahu is the Polynesian instrument that more looks like the world others drumming, as the African djembe for example. This can be noticed in the rest of the world, this drum has had numerous uses to encourage warriors during a fight, to accompany the marae ceremonies, to give songs to Heiva evenings.

The vivo is a three holes bamboo flute in which the instrumentalist blows with his nose. Although it can only play few notes, the vivo make wonderful sounds while playing.