There’s something really special about being part of a show that connects so deeply, with both the audience and everyone on stage. Performing in Come From Away with Campbelltown Theatre Group has been exactly that kind of experience. For this production, I also threw myself into something new, teaching myself how to play the mandolin. It wasn’t easy at first, but I stuck with it, figured it out, and ended up diving headfirst into a world of sea shanties, Irish jigs… you get the idea.
I’ve had the absolute joy and challenge of playing bouzouki, mandolin, octave mandolin, and acoustic guitars throughout the run. It’s been one of the toughest scores I’ve ever tackled, no exaggeration. I’ve never had to solo this much in a musical before, and honestly, it’s been equal parts terrifying and exhilarating. The kind of challenge that keeps you on your toes, but also reminds you why you love doing this in the first place.
What’s made it even more rewarding is the response. Audiences have been incredibly warm and engaged, and heading into our final week, we’re completely sold out, which is just amazing to say out loud.
The band has been phenomenal from day one, tight, musical, and deeply supportive, and the cast, truly extraordinary. The chorus, in particular, is something else. I’ve never heard a sound so rich, so full, and so unified. It genuinely fills the room, and my heart every night.
Grateful to be part of something like this. What a ride it’s been.
I’ve just wrapped up an incredible run with PACA Productions Sydney performing in Footloose The Musical, and what a journey it was! I was called in last minute to take on the Bass Chair, and it turned out to be one of the most rewarding musical theatre experiences I’ve had so far. The score itself was an absolute joy to play, full of energy, groove, and so many memorable tunes that made every performance a thrill.
One of the highlights was rehearsing at NIDA in Kensington, an inspiring environment that really elevated the process. The band I worked with were not only exceptional musicians but also supportive colleagues who made the entire run a true pleasure.
On a personal level, this production stretched me in all the right ways. My sight-reading skills improved immensely, and I learned so much about adaptability and trusting my musical instincts.
I’m truly grateful to have been part of this show, and I look forward to crossing paths with many of you at the musical theatre stage door again soon.
Hit Factory 2025: New Music Forged Across Cultures Free Concert – Friday 1 August, 6pm | Bankstown Arts Centre
What happens when four musicians from vastly different cultural traditions are given just 16 hours together to create? The result is Hit Factory 2025—a bold residency project that pushes the boundaries of collaboration and celebrates the unifying power of music.
Held in June 2025, the Hit Factory Residency brought together:
Yacou Mbaye – Senegalese drummer & dancer
Rose Ramiz – Syriac vocalist
Joseph Tabua – Fijian-Australian guitarist
Simon Kong – Chinese-Australian bass and oud player
Over the course of the residency, the artists exchanged stories, explored rhythms and melodies from their homelands, and developed new works that reflect Australia’s diverse cultural landscape.
The residency will culminate in a free public concert on Friday 1 August, 6pm at Bankstown Arts Centre, featuring the premiere of their collaborative music along with special guest performances.
“This project is about more than music—it’s about cultural storytelling, listening to each other, and finding common ground through creativity,” said Richard Petkovic. “Audiences can expect something truly unique, made right here in Bankstown.”
Funded by Create NSW and presented by Sacred Currents Inc, the project is delivered in partnership with Bankstown Arts Centre, South Coast Arts, Cultural Arts Collective, and Settlement Services International (SSI).
Event Details Hit Factory 2025 Concert Date: Friday 1 August 2025 Time: 6:00pm Location: Bankstown Arts Centre Tickets: FREE
A special thank you to Bankstown Arts Centre for their ongoing support of this residency and concert.
In April and May 2025, I had the privilege of performing Guitar 1 in the Broadway classic They’re Playing Our Song. The production was especially meaningful as it marked the final show of Musical Director Greg Crease’s incredible career.
Greg played Keys 1 in the original 1970s production at the Theatre Royal Sydney, making this a truly full-circle moment. It was an honour to work alongside him, to learn from his wealth of experience, and to share in such a significant chapter of his journey.
Thank you, Greg, for the opportunity and the inspiration.
I am deeply honoured to stand before this incredible mural, a tribute not just to me, but to the vibrant and generous community that makes this place so special. Birchgrove and Balmain have always been about connection, through music, shared experiences, and the simple joy of coming together.
To everyone who has been part of this journey, thank you. This moment belongs to all of us.
Joseph Tabua-Composer Guitarist AcademicWoolworths Balmain NSWCommunity 2024 by Hugues Sineux
Embarking on the journey of learning to play the guitar is both exciting and rewarding. Whether you’re strumming your first chord or refining advanced techniques, understanding the most effective practices can accelerate your progress. In this guide, we’ll explore data-backed insights to help you become a proficient guitarist.
1. The Power of Consistent Practice
Studies have shown that regular, focused practice significantly enhances skill acquisition. According to research, dedicating at least 15 minutes daily to practice can lead to noticeable improvements in technique and muscle memory. Consistency, even in short sessions, is more beneficial than sporadic, lengthy practices.
2. Setting Specific Goals
Goal-setting is a proven strategy to maintain motivation and track progress. A study published in the Journal of Research in Music Education found that musicians who set specific, attainable goals practiced more effectively and showed greater advancement than those without clear objectives. Whether it’s mastering a particular song or technique, defining your goals can provide direction and purpose.
3. Utilising Effective Learning Resources
Access to quality learning materials can significantly impact your development. Online platforms offering structured lessons, tutorials, and community support have been associated with higher retention rates and skill levels among learners. Engaging with diverse resources can cater to various learning styles and keep the process enjoyable.
4. The Role of Feedback and Self-Assessment
Receiving feedback, whether from instructors, peers, or self-assessment, is crucial for improvement. Research indicates that musicians who actively seek and reflect on feedback tend to progress faster and avoid reinforcing bad habits. Recording your practice sessions and reviewing them can provide valuable insights into areas needing improvement.
5. Embracing a Growth Mindset
Adopting a growth mindset—the belief that abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work—has been linked to greater resilience and success in musical endeavors. Embracing challenges, persisting through setbacks, and viewing effort as a path to mastery can transform your learning experience.
Harmonizing Life: My Journey Through Music, Teaching, and Wellness
Life as a musician is a constant dance between creativity, discipline, and a touch of chaos. For me, this year has been a symphony of exciting projects, commitments, and personal growth. Balancing the demands of playing in five bands, teaching, protecting the temple (this being), and even making time for the gym, I’ve learned that living a creative life is about harmonizing passion with purpose.
Playing Across Five Bands
Being part of five different bands has been an incredible experience. Each group offers its own unique flavor and energy, allowing me to explore a variety of musical styles and stretch my creative boundaries. It’s thrilling to collaborate with such talented musicians and be part of something bigger than myself. Whether it’s in the studio, on stage, or simply jamming, each band fuels my love for music in a way that words can’t quite capture.
Recording With Avaye Rood
A highlight of this past year has been recording an album with Avaye Rood. This project holds a special place in my heart, as it combines cultural heritage with contemporary artistry. Pouring countless hours into composing, recording, and refining these songs has been a deeply rewarding process. I can’t wait to share this labor of love with the world and bring our music to new audiences.
Solo Endeavors: New Material in 2025
As if working with multiple bands weren’t enough, I’ve also been focused on my solo material. 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year, as I’m set to release new solo work that reflects my growth as an artist. This upcoming music is deeply personal—an exploration of my thoughts, emotions, and experiences in sonic form. I’ve poured so much of myself into this project, and I can’t wait for you to hear it.
A New Collaboration with Sydney’s Jazz Elite
On top of these projects, I’m thrilled to announce an exciting new collaboration with some of Sydney’s finest jazz musicians. While the details are still under wraps, I can promise this venture will be something truly special. Jazz has a way of capturing raw emotion and creating spontaneous magic, and I’m honored to be working with such accomplished artists. Stay tuned for more updates—I have a feeling this project will turn heads!
Teaching and Protecting the Temple
Beyond performance, teaching continues to be a cornerstone of my life. Guiding others on their musical journey is not just fulfilling; it also deepens my understanding of the craft. It’s a privilege to pass on the knowledge that has been shared with me.
Meanwhile, “protecting the temple” remains a mantra I live by. Regular trips to the gym aren’t just about physical fitness—they’re about maintaining balance, focus, and resilience. The discipline I build in the gym fuels my creativity and helps me stay grounded amidst a packed schedule.
Looking Ahead
With so many incredible projects in motion, the future feels bright. Whether it’s releasing new material, exploring fresh collaborations, or simply sharing the joy of music, I’m grateful for every opportunity to grow and connect through my art.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. There’s so much more to come—stay tuned!
I’m beyond thrilled to share that I had a small acting role in the newly released George Miller film, Furiosa! Last week, audiences got to see me as a Praetorian guard, standing watch at the front gates of the citadel when the evil Dementus and his crew arrive in Gas Town. I just watched the film, and I am overjoyed to be a part of the iconic Mad Max universe.
It feels surreal to think that when I was just 9 years old, I watched Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome for the first time. Now, years later, I have a role in Mad Max: Furiosa! This experience has truly shown me that you are the architect of your own fate and reality.
Quiet on set.I read a lot between takes.War Boy Mitchell and PraetorianWar Boy N8. A gentleman and a scholar.
In the realm where music transcends borders and cultures, I found my harmonious home within the mesmerising melodies of Avaye Rood. It all began with a captivating invitation from the virtuoso multi-instrumentalist, Behzad Ansari, following my performance at the Volume Festival on September 23. Little did I know, this encounter would mark the beginning of an enchanting musical journey.
A month later, I embarked on a musical odyssey as I joined Avaye Rood, an ensemble that deftly blends Persian-inspired originals with the timeless verses of Rumi, seamlessly weaving together English and Persian languages. As I plugged in my electric guitar and became immersed in the rich tapestry of sound created by Behzad Ansari and his ensemble, I felt an immediate connection to the soulful essence of their music.
Our recent performance at the New Beginnings Festival on January 27 at the prestigious National Maritime Museum was a testament to the transformative power of music. As we took to the stage, the energy emanating from the audience was palpable, infusing each note with a profound sense of connection and belonging. It was a night where music served as the universal language, uniting hearts and souls in a symphony of shared experiences.
Playing alongside Avaye Rood has been nothing short of profound. In the synergy of our musical collaboration, I have discovered a sense of kinship and camaraderie unlike anything I’ve experienced before. It’s as if our collective passion for music transcends individuality, weaving us together into a harmonious ensemble where every note resonates with purpose and meaning.
In retrospect, I realise that this sense of belonging within Avaye Rood is more than just musical chemistry—it’s a profound understanding and appreciation for the transformative power of music. It’s a reminder that music has the unparalleled ability to bridge divides, transcend boundaries, and unite souls in a shared journey of melody and rhythm.
As I continue to journey alongside Avaye Rood, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to be part of such a remarkable ensemble. With every performance, we not only create music but also forge connections that transcend language, culture, and time. In the tapestry of Avaye Rood’s melodies, I have found my place—a place where music serves as the ultimate expression of unity, harmony, and connection.
On September 23, I had the privilege of participating in the Volume Festival at the Art Gallery New South Wales, where I performed a concert amidst an atmosphere of creativity and expression. The afternoon was truly remarkable, heightened by the captivating performance of Sampa the Great, who headlined the event. Performing within the gallery’s walls provided a luxurious and cathartic experience, resonating deeply with the emotions often evoked during improvisational sessions.
In the realm of live performances, there exists a unique interplay of factors that influence the artist’s journey. From the accumulation of sound waves in a space to the invaluable support of venue personnel, each interaction shapes the artist’s experience and ultimately, their performance. It’s a process often misunderstood, with distractions, entourage, and troublesome ego mistakenly perceived as assets. Yet, the reality of live settings involves navigating the possibility of playing the wrong notes or applying the wrong chord progressions, all while striving to maintain a connection with the audience.
Solo concerts, like the one I had the opportunity to perform at Volume, offer a canvas for exploration, allowing for the utilization of various tonal centers while ensuring the audience remains engaged. It’s a delicate balance, where the pursuit of musical innovation must be tempered with an awareness of audience receptivity. Through each live performance, I aim to weave together musical ideas that resonate both with myself and those listening, understanding that overthinking can detract from the authenticity and spontaneity of the experience.
Following my performance at AGNSW, I was overwhelmed by the outpouring of support on my Instagram feed—photos, videos, and messages of encouragement from individuals I may never meet in person. This digital affirmation underscores the profound impact of technology on artistic validation, prompting reflection on how artists once gauged the significance of their work without such immediate feedback.
Regardless of the level of recognition or the number of connections made through music, I remain committed to approaching my craft with the same fervor and humility as a novice guitarist. For me, creating music is more than just a personal pursuit; it’s a means of serving humanity and fostering connections that transcend boundaries.
In the ever-evolving landscape of artistic expression, festivals like Volume serve as vital platforms for collaboration, experimentation, and shared experiences. As I continue on this musical journey, I am grateful for the opportunities to connect with audiences, both near and far, and to cultivate moments of sound and vision that resonate deeply with the human spirit.
Joseph Tabua 