Panpipes, Solomon Islands, Melanesia

I had the rare privilege of joining an expedition through Polynesia and Melanesia, with one especially unforgettable stop in the Solomon Islands. There, I witnessed a mesmerizing performance by a traditional ensemble of slit-drums and panpipes—two of the region’s most iconic musical instruments. The slit-drum, carved from hollowed logs, produced deep, resonant tones that set the pulse of the music, while the panpipes—assembled from carefully tuned bamboo pipes—carried bright, melodic lines across the air.

Panpipe orchestras can feature up to ten musicians, each with a uniquely tuned instrument, creating a rich tapestry of interlocking rhythms and harmonies. These photographs capture the vibrant energy and deep cultural expression of the performance—each musician dancing in sync with the music as they played, fully immersed in the communal rhythm.

Here are a few photographs capturing the talent and passion of these artists.