Angelic moves and grooves at Matterhorn

Take an angelic journey to the islands, as Sunga present their extraordinary fusion of culture and musical genres at the Matterhorn this February.

Sunga stars three woman with a common heritage and different musical backgrounds; Grace Vanilau on vocals, Belafon and Percussion Natalia Mann on concert harp and vocals and Lila Meleisea on kora (African harp), kalimba and saxophone.

Currently based in Australia, Sunga are a truly unforgettable experience, bringing together unique instrumentation, soaring vocals and funky clap dances.

They've won praise playing at local festivals, theatre, health, and education and youth forums across Australia, New Zealand and in New Caledonia.

Grace started performing in gospel rallies and conventions and other musical influences span from classical to jazz, hip-hop, reggae, African, Celtic and Polynesian.

Since graduating from Puawai Polynesian Performing Arts, Grace has worked with Caribbean Soul, Pacific Underground, Soul Sisters, Brown Roots, and the Melbourne Ska Orchestra.

Natalia is a Performance graduate of the Victorian College of the Arts and has played the harp since childhood.

She's performed as resident harpist for the Wellington Sinfonia Orchestra, and appeared with New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, contemporary chamber ensembles, opera and ballet. She also performs Turkish fusion, calypso reggae, lounge, hip hop and experimental genres.

Lila has worked with big bands, little bands orchestras and experimental outfits, as travelling and performing in New Zealand, Bangkok, Liverpool, and Salvador, Brazil.

She graduated from Victoria College of the Arts on alto and baritone saxophone, and has developed skills as a multi-instrumentalist, performing with many ethnic instruments.

'...The audience was silenced as Sunga's unique blend of Concert Harp and soothing deep soulful vocals sang out old and new Pacific melodies.'
Toru Pacific Arts Festival, Pacific Underground

SUNGA, Songs of Polynesia
Matterhorn, 106 Cuba St
WEDNESDAY 16 FEB 2005, Koha from 9.30pm