The Girl Who Heard the Music: Mahani Teave, The Pianist with a Dream as Big as an Island

Mahani Teave, a talented classical pianist, grew up on Rapa Nui, Easter Island. She left to pursue her music education but returned to create a music and arts school to preserve the island's environment and culture. The school is built with sustainable materials and incorporates traditional practices.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 32 pages
Publication date: 27 April 2023
Publisher: Sourcebooks, Inc

Mahani Teave, a remarkable individual, nurtured her talents on the captivating island of Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island. This remote paradise is adorned with magnificent moai statues and permeated with the enchanting melodies of music. At a young age, Mahani embarked on her musical journey by taking piano lessons on the island's sole piano, showcasing an exceptional aptitude. Determined to pursue her passion, she left Rapa Nui when she was just nine years old, yearning to continue her music education in a different environment. However, her heart always yearned for her island home.

Years later, Mahani's return to Rapa Nui was driven by a new dream: to preserve the island's environment and culture. She recognized the challenges the island faced, including sustainability issues and the impact of tourism and ocean plastics. In response, Mahani and her team envisioned a transformative project—a music and arts school that would not only nurture young talents but also instill a deep appreciation for the island's unique traditions.

The school, built with the vision of sustainability, was constructed using thousands of tires, bottles, and cans, ingeniously incorporated into its walls. Rain barrels, solar panels, and a food garden were also integrated to minimize the school's environmental footprint. Mahani and her team have created an inspiring space that celebrates the land of Rapa Nui and its people.

Through the school, Mahani and her team have imparted valuable music lessons, nurturing the talents of young individuals while preserving the island's rich cultural heritage. They have organized concerts, workshops, and cultural events that bring together locals and visitors, fostering a sense of unity and pride.

Mahani's journey is a testament to the power of passion, determination, and the unwavering commitment to preserving the beauty of our natural world. Her efforts on Rapa Nui have not only enriched the lives of her students but also served as a beacon of hope for other islands facing similar challenges. As Mahani continues to inspire and uplift the community, her legacy will endure, reminding us of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage and protecting our planet for future generations.

Weight: 212g
Dimension: 252 x 254 x 5 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781728277325