OCEANIA: Music of the Tahitian Choir

French Polynesia as an example of syncretism in music

Syncretism: a fusion of elements from diverse cultural sources.

After first contact with British missionaries in 1797, the Society Islands became

French Polynesia in 1843 with the island of Tahiti as its capitol.

CD Example 7. “Morotiri Nei” - Tahitian choir

Blend of Western and indigenous musical elements:

Western harmony influenced by missionary music

Indigenous language; extreme falling of pitch at ends of phrases

Believed to be oldest song on island; recounts ancient history.

Layering of vocal groups divided by gender:

1. female solo

2. female chorus and male chorus

3. second female chorus

(pattern repeats)

CD Example 8. “Himene Tatou” - Tahitian choir

Blend of Western and indigenous musical elements:

Western church hymn: harmony and chord structure

Indigenous language; gradual falling of pitch

Ancient words with unknown meanings

Church influence: congregation singing as one