Strings of heritage: Jecy (left), Theseira and the other band members practising for their Merdeka eve performance at the Portuguese Settlement in Ujong Pasir.
MELAKA: An instrument with four strings, introduced more than five centuries ago, will once again be heard in the Portuguese Settlement when a group of children performs during the National Day eve celebration on Saturday.
The cavaquinho, first brought by Portuguese sailors in the 16th century, later evolved into the modern ukulele and once played a central role in keronchong music.
Its metallic strings were replaced with gut to create a softer tone, giving the instrument a distinct place in local tradition.
That legacy is now being revived through PortSettUkes –the first children’s ukulele band in the settlement.
The group, coached by musician and cultural advocate Martin Theseira, comprises nine teenagers and five young children, with six-year-old Jecy Rapheal being the youngest.
On Aug 30, they will perform patriotic songs such as Jalur Gemilang, Keranamu Malaysia and Tanggal 31 at a gathering to showcase patriotism.
“Their performance is more than just music. These children are carrying forward a tradition that linked us back over 500 years, while also spreading the love for our country,” said Theseira.
He noted that the ukulele was versatile, lightweight and easier to learn than a guitar.
He said the revival effort was first suggested in 2023 by the late Alvin Fletcher, a resident who encouraged the community to pass down the tradition to the younger generation.
“With the support of community member Gloria John, the initiative has since grown into free weekly lessons every Friday, open to learners of all ages.
“These lessons give children the chance to explore music while reconnecting with their cultural roots,” he said.
Theseira said the children’s performance would show how heritage and patriotism can go hand in hand.
“The sound of ukuleles during the celebration will remind Malaysians that unity and cultural identity are best preserved when traditions are handed down from one generation to the next,” he said.
