A new bilingual album for children will help preserve the Samoan language for future generations.
In celebration of Samoan Language Week, Malamalama Moni Aoga Amata (MMAA) and celebrated children’s music group The KaRs have released their debut bilingual Samoan early childhood album, a 10-song collection designed to uplift and preserve the Samoan language for future generations.
This landmark project, funded by the Palmerston North City Council’s Creative Communities Scheme, is a joyful collaboration between MMAA, The KaRs, Hokozoo Productions, UCOL’s WorkHub and young singing talent from MMAA’s own crèche.
Featured on the recording is Noelle Fauolo, who wowed audiences as Moana in the Manawatū Youth Theatre’s award-winning production of Moana Jr.
Kane Parsons, one half of The Kars, says working with the Malamalama Moni Aoga Amata has been an absolute joy.
“Their passion for language, culture, and storytelling has brought a beautiful depth to this album. Capturing the voices of young tamaiti was the true heart of this project. Their energy and pride lifted every track and reminded us why we do this mahi – to celebrate culture, inspire creativity, and keep our languages alive through music.”
The album includes daily routine and language-learning rhymes, hymns and chants, all grounded in Samoan culture and designed for tamaiti (young children), faiaoga (teachers), and aiga (families).
This album is more than music—it’s a cultural resource supporting language learning across Aoga Amata, early learning centres, and Samoan households around Aotearoa. It strengthens cultural identity and encourages intergenerational sharing of Samoan values and traditions through song.
MMAA Centre Manager Tiana Fauolo says the album was born out of the heartfelt curiosity of parents who often ask the teachers, “what’s this song, and what does it mean? My child sings it all the time at home!”
“These moments inspired us to create a resource that not only support early language development but also strengthens the bond between home, identity, and culture.
“This album is designed as a learning tool for both homes and early childhood centres, encouraging the use and understanding of the Samoan language through music. It’s our way of supporting families and educators in nurturing a strong cultural foundation of our tamaiti (children).
“The diaspora of Samoa has contributed to a growing trend of Samoans who do not understand their own culture and language. Through their children we have created a safe space where they can learn and be inspired to learn more.”
MMAA and The KaRs invite the community to join and listen during Samoan Language Week, a celebration honouring the contributions of our tamaiti, our faiaoga, and our families.
This year’s Samoan Language Week theme, "Ia malu lou sā. Folau i lagimā" – A well-grounded self is a successful self", is embodied through this project, which roots young learners in language, music, and cultural pride.