ʻUkulele For The Hula
Kumu – Saichi Kawahara
Skill Level – Basic through Advanced
Early Bird Workshop Fee $125 ($150 after January 15th).
The fundamentals of performing ʻukulele as related to the hula.
Class Requirements – Participants please bring ʻukulele, and binder with paper and pen.
Saichi Kawahara is the founder and director of the Kapalakiko Hawaiian Band. He offers ʻukulele instruction throughout Northern California.
| Playing the Ukulele for Hula Halau Rate |
Oli (Hawaiian Chant) Workshop
Kumu Liko Puha
Skill Level – Basic through Advanced
Early Bird Workshop Fee $125 ($150 after January 15th).
In this 2-day experiential workshop, participants will learn about the Hawaiian oral tradition perpetuated through mele (poetic texts) as expressed through oli (chant). Mele are composed to convey history, genealogy, celebrate a sense of place, and much more.
This workshop will focus on learning poetic texts divining inspiration, protection, to impart greetings, and convey gratitude.
Participants will be introduced to various distinctive vocalization techniques and their significance. A Hawaiian language primer will be provided. Also, participants will learn proper context and body language for delivering a chant.
As part of the workshop, participants will produce individual kīhei using natural and modern materials provided by the instructor. (Note: $25 additional materials fee payable at first meeting of workshop to instructor.)
Recommended Preparation
- Some experience with Hawaiian language and chant encouraged, but not required.
- If you are a hula person, I recommend you confer with your Kumu Hula before registering.
- Expect to memorize and chant at least one workshop mele.
- Wear comfortable clothing and bring one set for working with water soluble paint.
- Personal recording devices encouraged, preferably audio devices.
Additional Materials
1.5ʻ or 2’ of muslin material, acrylic paint and associated brushes, bowls, tape, tī leaf or banana stalk for use as a stamp. A fee of $25 per student will be assessed to cover material cost and preparation. I am requesting t-shirt size and email of registrants to prepare accordingly.
Learner Outcomes
At the conclusion of this workshop, participants will be able to: Recite memorized mele oli with correct pronunciation, enunciation, and intonation. Identify the composer, appropriate context, and protocol for each workshop mele oli shared. Explain the significance of the kīhei and its proper care and use.
Liko Puha is a Native Hawaiian chanter, songwriter and poet (Haku Mele), musician, and educator of chant (Kumu Oli), and Hawaiian language (Kumu ʻŌlelo). As a cultural practitioner, Liko shares his cultural knowledge by performing blessings, openings, and composing poetry as chants or songs. As an educator he teaches workshops and classes both online and on-ground in Hawaiʻi and California. Liko earned his BA in Hawaiian Studies at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo where he studied with Master Chanter Dr. Kalena Silva. In 2013 Liko earned a Master of Science in Education, Online Teaching and Learning, at California State University – East Bay.