Griffith University's Queensland Conservatorium of Music became the meeting ground for two young and aspiring musicians, Tanja Hafenstein and Salliana Seven. Their remarkable friendship would leave an indelible mark on the world music scene.
Tanja enrolled at Griffith University in 1994 to study a Diploma in Music Instrumental and continued to a Graduate Diploma in Music Instrumental in 1995, laying the foundation for her illustrious career. Reflecting on her formative years at Griffith, Tanja reminisces, "Finishing school and finally starting my music studies at Griffith to follow my passions was one of the most amazing experiences I’ve ever had."
Salliana, equally passionate, pursued a Bachelor of Music in 1994 at Griffith's Queensland Conservatorium of Music. She fondly recalls, "We were just showered with opportunities, and I always say the Conservatorium was where I met all my people. It was just a beautiful environment—always someone (often guitarists) practising in the stairwell.”
Tanja and Salliana’s paths converged within the halls of Griffith's Conservatorium, brought together by fellow student Virag Antal (Bachelor of Music, 1994) and her project for a course. As part of their course requirements, they attended about 30 lunchtime concerts a year. Salliana vividly remembers being in the Basil Jones Theatre with Tanja, stealthily enjoying their lunch before settling in for some midday entertainment. The inspiration they drew from these performances was immense. Salliana reminisces, “Tanja plays wicked percussion... although I studied classical piano and violin, improvisation was definitely more natural to me. I was always the one in orchestra with my bow going the wrong way!”
Tanja fondly remembers meeting Salliana, “Meeting Sal at Griffith was like finding family. In fact, people always thought we were sisters. We had the same haircuts, smiles, and even boots. We’ve always been there for each other and shared the same values.” Salliana shares similar memories, “People would always think we were sisters, I think, because we had matching smiles.”
Tanja fondly remembers meeting Salliana, “Meeting Sal at Griffith was like finding family. In fact, people always thought we were sisters. We had the same haircuts, smiles, and even boots. We’ve always been there for each other and shared the same values.” Salliana shares similar memories, “People would always think we were sisters, I think, because we had matching smiles.”
Their days at Griffith were filled with creative energy, from jazz piano lessons on Margaret Street Campus to late nights in the recording studio and lunchtime concerts in the Basil Jones Theatre. “We were always buzzing from the creative energies around us,” Tanja recalls.
Salliana, Tanja, Virag and Jasmine Geraghty (Bachelor of Music, 1995) all met through Virag’s world of music project. This little project turned into a band and it was here that Tulipan, meaning Tulip in Hungarian, was born. Tulipan boasted a diverse lineup of instruments, including the zither, hurdy-gurdy, and hammered dulcimer, accompanied by haunting Hungarian vocals—a fusion of sounds that captivated audiences far and wide.
The opportunities that ensued were nothing short of extraordinary. From international tours that took them across continents to prestigious accolades such as an ARIA nomination, Tulipan's journey was marked by moments of triumph and acclaim. The band graced the stages of iconic festivals including Livid, Big Day Out, WOMAD, and were regular special guests at Woodford Folk Festival, enchanting audiences with their eclectic blend of world sounds and infectious energy.
Tanja explains Salliana’s musical talent: “Sal plays violin and piano like no other, and I remember always smiling ear to ear during rehearsals with her. I could never wait till the next time we played together. I’ll never forget those memories.” Salliana adds, “If it wasn’t for Griffith and meeting at the Con, there wouldn’t have been a Tulipan. All four of us met there, including Virag, who was the founding member, and also Jasmine Geraghty.”
“We were in a very special creative bubble, and I pinched myself every day that I got to play with such incredibly talented musicians, travelling the world, making TV appearances, and writing music that came from our souls. Who would have thought a little music assignment would end up creating lifelong friendships and life-changing experiences!” Tanja says.
Beyond their musical endeavours, Tanja and Salliana forged a deep and lasting friendship, anchored in shared values, mutual respect, and a love for laughter. Their bond extends beyond the stage and continues to grow every day.
Today, Tanja continues to perform regularly, touring with major artists such as Alex Lloyd, playing in musicals, orchestras, and various bands and festivals. Salliana, a freelance musician, has transitioned from gigs to projects in theatre, film, and sessions. Salliana and Tanja often play together, including in a trio with Ben Stewart, and are both members of Alex Lloyd’s current lineup.
Salliana looks back on their lifelong friendship, “Tanja is someone I can trust and feel really safe around. She also has the most infectious laugh. I’ve got so many strong memories of her over the last 30 years now.” Tanja shares this sentiment, “I feel blessed to have always been able to perform with Sal since the Griffith days, such as cabaret shows with Carita Farrer Spencer, trio gigs with Ben Stewart, and more recently with Alex Lloyd again. I cannot wait to see what fun adventures are ahead of us. With Sal, I know it’s going to be awesome.”
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Griffith University has been a place of teaching, learning and research for nearly 50 years—with thousands of personal connections made on campus. Did you enrol in a degree and walk away with a lifelong friend? Did you meet your soulmate, business partner, mentor or confidante at Griffith? What adventures have you shared along the way?
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