Okaoka

This music is inspired by my memories of the unique sights and sounds of the Pacific islands of Samoa where I lived and worked for three years – from 1989 to 1992.

‘Okaoka!’ (pronounced ‘awkaAWka’) is a Samoan exclamation of surprise – something like ‘Wow!’ in English.

Most Samoan dance is accompanied by song and this one is built on the light-hearted song ‘Okaoka La’u Honey’ where the singer compares his lover to some of the most sought-after and exotic foods available in Samoa at the turn of the 20th century. I have enclosed a recording of a performance of the original folksong below.

The music starts in a reflective mood, as if the singer is trying to recall the words of the song. Then flowing lines suggest a single dancer performing the graceful, dignified movements of the ‘siva sa’o’, or formal dance. Gradually more and more dancers join in, excitement builds, and the music becomes an expression of unrestrained exuberance.