Mele Mei hits a high note this year, sharing the culturally rich heritage of Hawaiian music with even more people. “Mele Mei’s expansion was organic,” said Pali Ka’aihue, president of Hawaii Academy of Recording Arts. “It expanded this year since
Mele Mei hits a high note this year, sharing the culturally rich heritage of Hawaiian music with even more people.
“Mele Mei’s expansion was organic,” said Pali Ka’aihue, president of Hawaii Academy of Recording Arts. “It expanded this year since many key music and cultural events happened outside May.”
Mele Mei translates to “May Hawaiian Music Month.” This year will showcase the largest calendar to date of musical preformances throughout the neighbor islands, and Japan. It includes multiple Na Hoku Hanohano award-winning and Grammy-nominated artists.
Some of the Kauai events include Na Lei Hiwa Hiwa, May Day by the Bay and the celebration of Prince Kuhio.
On April 29, make your way over to the Kauai Beach Resort and enjoy Hawaiian music by the Kuini Trio at the Na Lei Hiwa Hiwa. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door for adults and $10 for keiki ages six to 17. Proceeds support the organization’s mission to perpetuate Hawaiian culture.
“The expansion of Mele Mei is a true testament to our talented local musicians and loyal and committed partners who understand the importance of cultivating this important cultural treasure,” Ka’aihue said.
Celebrate Mother’s Day and May Day at May Day by the Bay at Waioli Beach Park on May 14. Join Peter Apo at this year’s kanikapila celebration. There will be entertainment, cultrual practioners, food and more. $5 entry.
Finally on Saturday, June 18, march over to the celebration of Prince Kuhio, celebrating the life of Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalaniana‘ole Pi‘ikoi. This annual event will be held at Prince Kuhio Park. It will include a performance by the Royal Hawaiian Band.
“We have included Kauai events in past years however this is the first year that we will be creating events specifically for the Neighbor Islands,” Kaʻaihue said.
Info: www.nahokuhanohano.org
