Bryan Tata, one of the premier drummers in the Solomon Islands, showcased his unique and precise drumming style while playing for PNG artist Tonton Malele during the Bonfire Music Festival last Saturday. The event attracted thousands who came to enjoy a live concert featuring artists from both the Solomon Islands and PNG, including Tonton Malele from the Pikinini Niu Ailan.
“It’s an honor for me to play for Tonton Malele and share my drumming skills,” Bryan shared with Post-Courier Online in Honiara. “I love PNG music and always enjoy exploring different musical genres.”
In addition to playing for Tonton Malele, Bryan had previously supported well-known local artists such as Joe Brize, Jah Boy, Jaro Local, and Kayler at last year’s Bonfire Festival. He also had the privilege of drumming for Anslom during his performance in Honiara.
One of Bryan’s career highlights was performing with the Umi Wan Band at the closing ceremony of the Pacific Games last year in Honiara, which he cited as a significant boost to his career.
Reflecting on the recent concert, Bryan expressed his gratitude on Facebook, stating, “It is a great honor to be part of Tonton Malele’s music. Having heard about Tonton as an emerging artist in PNG, I feel fortunate to have been selected as his drummer for the Bonfire Festival here in the Solomon Islands.”
Bryan has been passionate about drumming since he was five years old. By age ten, he began playing in church, and through dedication and practice, he evolved into a seasoned professional drummer.
“I developed my love for drumming back in 1997 after witnessing the late Lucky Dube’s concert in the Solomon Islands,” he recalled. He emphasized that drumming serves as the foundation for all music.
“I have been inspired by iconic drummers like Simon Philips, Jeff Parco, Chris Coleman, Mike Portnoy, Dave Wickless, Carlton Barrett, Laga Savea, and the Hakalits family in Papua New Guinea,” he added.
In addition to his performances, Bryan runs a small clinic to teach aspiring drummers, particularly children in the Solomon Islands. “I’ve had to postpone my clinics due to other commitments, but I will announce when I’m ready to resume these sessions.”
He advises fellow musicians, especially emerging drummers, to “never forget to give back glory and honor to Papa God.”
The Bonfire concert was a tremendous success and is set to become one of the Solomon Islands’ major attractions in the music industry.
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