The U.S. Pacific Fleet Band’s woodwind quintet Tradewinds will perform a series of concerts in Suva and Vanua Levu from September 14–21, in support of ongoing cultural exchange between the United States and Fiji.

The musical ensemble, which serves under the United States Pacific Fleet, will hold public concerts tomorrow, September 15 from 17:30 at the Suva Civic Centre grounds, and Saturday, September 17 from 11:30 at the My FNPF Plaza.

Both performances are free and open to the public.

“The United States and Fiji share a great affinity for music,” said U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires (CDA) Tony Greubel.

The U.S. Pacific Fleet Band woodwind quintet Tradewinds rehearsing with its Fijian counterpart. Photo: U.S. Embassy Fiji

“We are excited to welcome the U.S. Pacific Fleet Band’s Tradewinds quintet to Fiji and to deepen our cultural ties in this area.”

During their visit to Suva, the band will have several joint performances with the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) band and the Republic of Fiji Navy (RFN) band.

Tradewinds will also take part in a musical exchange event with the Fiji National University (FNU) and perform at the University of the South Pacific (USP), in addition to the two public events tomorrow and on Saturday.

The U.S. Pacific Fleet Band woodwind quintet Tradewinds rehearsing with its Fijian counterpart. Photo: U.S. Embassy Fiji

From Suva, the quintet will travel to Vanua Levu and take part in musical educational outreach with local communities and schools.

Composed of professional U.S. military musicians, the U.S. Pacific Fleet Band performs at official events, community outreach concerts, and military functions throughout a 100 million square mile area of responsibility.

The Tradewinds quintet is a wind instrumental version of the classical string quartet, combining the sounds of the flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, and French horn.

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