'Tradewinds' wins Best Documentary at Pacific Island Film Festival of NYC

"Tradewinds," a Guam documentary produced by Mighty Island, won the Best Documentary Award at the Pacific Island Film Festival of New York City.

The film delves into the heart and soul of Guam's musical landscape, offering an intimate look into the world of renowned CHamoru jazz pianist, Patrick Palomo.

Tradewinds explores the profound connection between indigenous art and cultural heritage, emphasizing the importance of passing down traditions through music.

Palomo has combined CHamoru lyrics with the sounds and melodies of contemporary and classic jazz music.

Although his music career has spanned decades and continues to influence the Guam music scene, the film explores how his legacy has paved the way for younger artists to follow in his path.

Together with rising local talents Shannon McManus, John Glaser and Andrew Gumataotao, they formed the group Tradewinds.

Together, the group produces music highly influenced by the jazz style with lyrics in the CHamoru language.

The Best Documentary Award at the Pacific Island Film Festival of New York City is sponsored by Make Us Visible NY. The festival was from Oct. 17 to 20.

"Congratulations to the entire team that made this beautiful film. Mahalo for letting us screen it for the NYC Pacific Islander community," the festival said.

Watch Tradewinds online at www.pbs.org/video/tradewinds-sp5icd/ .

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