This week Upolu came alive as the United States Pacific Fleet Band "Big Wave" took the stage, serenading the general public with their captivating jazz performance.

The band had been enchanting audiences ever since their arrival on Tuesday this week, gracing events like the Night Market at the STA, the National University of Samoa and on Saturday at the ACB building in Apia with their musical prowess.

US Pacific Fleet Band Chief Vincent Moody, speaking with the Samoa Observer, expressed his gratitude for the warm reception they had received in Samoa. He shared that it had been a week since their arrival, and they had been conducting numerous performances with the local people and some schools, creating unforgettable memories through the power of music.

"I got to participate my first ava ceremony, experiencing the Samoan culture.For us to have been able to bring jazz music to Samoa has been an honour and also in return we got to experience Samoan music as well" he said in an interview. Describing the fellowship in music as an "exchange of culture"

During their performance, the band decided to showcase their respect for the local culture by attempting to perform one of Samoa's classic songs, "Samoa Matalasi". The audience was captivated by their rendition, with many members of the public swaying along to the infectious beat and cheering in appreciation.

"We saw the band at the night market and we really enjoyed their performance especially the Samoa Matalasi cover they sang," said Tanya Tavita who also stated she had to bring her musician niece to witness the performance for the second time at the ACB building.

The eleven-member U.S. Pacific Fleet Band's Big Wave Brass Band is well-known for its ability to perform a variety of popular songs and traditional New Orleans-style brass band classics at a diverse range of military and community gatherings. With a mix of trumpets, trombones, saxophone, sousaphone, and percussion, the band's dynamic sound consistently captivates and delights audiences of all ages.

The band will be conducting a masterclass on Monday at the NUS Falesamoa where they will be able to showcase musical advice and skills from sound engineering to vocal trainings to some of the local musicians in Samoa and especially those pursuing it in school. 

"We are excited" said Vincent Moody.

The performance by the U.S. Pacific Fleet Band "Big Wave" left a lasting impression on the people of Apia, demonstrating the ability of music to unite communities and bring joy to all who listen. It was truly a memorable experience that will be cherished by those in attendance.