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Class Descriptions


2012 WORKSHOPS & SEMINARS  

Listed alphabetically by kumu (teacher) last name

      
You may select a class for every available time slot over the three days (8 total, plus general opening session). You may select up to SIX hula and/or skill workshops. You may select as many seminars as you wish. You may also leave a period blank, if you want free time.



IMPORTANT NOTES FOR CONFEREES

SKILL LEVELS: Be careful when deciding if you are beginner, intermediate or advanced. Anyone is welcome to take any class, but these levels give you a better chance at success and enjoyment in the class, if you choose honestly. A beginner may never have taken hula, or may be a beginner dancer wishing to review the basic foot and handwork, or learn a simple hula. An intermediate dancer knows basic foot and handwork, has learned many hula, but may not have experience with implements, complicated motions or performance. An advanced dancer is experienced in all aspects of the dance and wishes to add to that experience by learning other hula traditions or dances. You might be an advanced hula 'auana dancer, but a beginner at hula kahiko.

IMPLEMENTS: If the workshop requires you to use an implement, such as pu’ili, ‘uli’uli, ‘ili’ili, ipu, etc., you must bring it to class. You may bring it from home, or purchase at our vendor mall at the conference.

HO`IKE PERFORMANCES: In Hawaiian, "HO`IKE" is performing something you have learned. Some hula workshops are designated “HO'IKE” on Friday and Saturday. These workshops provide the opportunity for the student dancers to join the kumu hula at their Waikiki hula show that same night to ho’ike or perform the hula learned in the workshop. These performances are optional, and anyone can take the workshop whether they perform or not.

TWO-PART CLASSES: Be careful in signing up for classes with two parts. These classes require you to take both parts:

For Mike Kop's 'Uli'uli (Feather Rattle) Skill Workshop, PART I is presented on Friday at 10:30. PART II is offered on Sunday at 8:00. You must take both parts to complete the implement.

For Mike Kop's `Ipu Heke (Double Gourd Drum) Skill Workshop, PART I is presented on Friday at 2:00. PART II is offered on Sunday at 2:00. You must take both parts to complete the implement.


CRAFT MATERIALS COST: For some craft classes, such as implement-making, a materials kit will be provided for each student. The cost is to be paid cash to the teacher, in US currency, at the time of the class. See class description for cost.

JAPANESE TRANSLATION: Because of the large proportion of hula students from Japan, translators will be provided in the hula workshops. Where possible and practical, printed material such as outlines and lyric sheets will be available in Japanese. All seminars will offer simultaneous Japanese translation or interpretation using ear receivers.

AUDIO RECORDING, PHOTOGRAPHY, VIDEO: Audio recording IS ALLOWED in hula workshops and lectures. No photography or videotaping is allowed in any lecture or workshop. Pictures and video may be taken outside of class time, with the kumu or classmates, and at all public performances such as the hula shows and the Kanikapila.

CLOTHING: Dress comfortably, wear a pa’u (hula skirt) or loose-fitting pants. Shoes will be removed at the door of each classroom for hula workshops. For performances (ho’ike), bring a pretty long Hawaiian mu’umu’u for ‘auana and white T-shirt and pa`u (hula skirt) for kahiko. We encourage you to buy a Conference T-Shirt for hula kahiko performances, but it is not required.

MISCELLANEOUS: All hula workshops are in carpeted rooms. Kumu hula will use microphones. Water is available in dispensers throughout the hallways.


2012 WORKSHOP & SEMINAR DESCRIPTIONS
LISTED BY KUMU (TEACHER) LAST NAME

Karen Ka`ohulani Aiu           

Sunday 13 May 2012
Morning 10:30-12:30 Hula `Auana Beginner  "Pua O Ka Makahala"
Composed in 1916 by Katie Stevens I`i, the grandmother of kumu hula  Aunty Vicki I'i Rodrigues.  Mrs. I`i and her family lived in the uplands of Waimea on Hawai`i island, and their driveway was bordered with flowering makahala shrubs.  The song, while upbeat in tone, hints at a relationship in trouble, influenced perhaps by the temptation of riches.
 
T. Kaleika`apuni “Harmony” Brighter

Saturday 12 May 2012
Morning 8:00-10:00 - Hula `Auana Beginner
"Expression in Hula"
Learn from this master of expression how to use your eyes and hands to convey the emotions of the hula – how to connect with your audience and touch their hearts -- and how to dance with grace and confidence.

Sunday 13 May 2012
Morning 8:00-10:00 - Hula `Auana Intermediate 
"Expression in Hula"
Learn from this master of expression how to use your eyes and hands to convey the emotions of the hula – how to connect with your audience and touch their hearts -- and how to dance with grace and confidence.

Charlene Kalae Campbell

Sunday 13 May 2012
Morning 10:30-12:30 Skill Workshop Ti Leaf Skirt-Making “Pa`u La`i Sampler”
MATERIALS $20
Learn to debone, prepare and tie ti leaves with several methods for making an authentic and professional ti-leaf shirt (Pa`u la`i). You will make a 50-leaf sampler you can dry and keep for reference in the future. These techniques guarantee your skirts will have flexibility and “swing,” but will be strong enough to survive long periods of vigorous dancing and twirling without splitting or coming apart. Ti leaves can be sent fresh to any place from Hawai`i for skirt-making.

Maelia Loebenstein Carter
 
Friday 11 May 2012
Morning 10:30-12:30 Hula `Auana Intermediate  "Beautiful Mahealani Moon"
Written by Johnny K. Almeida, this mele admires and extols the beauty of the
full Māhealani moon.  In her sweet moonlight, Māhealani carries love to a
favored sweetheart.  “My blossom, my wreath, my fragrant one” is the call.

Afternoon 2:00-4:00 pm Hula Kahiko Int/Adv  "Aia I Lihau Ko Lei Nani"
is part of the Kapi`olani Lei Collection, written in honor of the coronation of Queen Kapi`olani.  At Lihau is her beautiful lei, made of the full-blown lehua loved by the birds in the peaceful realm of Pi`ilani.
 
Saturday 12 May 2012
Afternoon 2:00-4:00 pm  SEMINAR
PANEL  "The Merrie Monarch Miss Aloha Hula Experience"
Moderated by Maelia Loebenstein Carter, who will be joined by Twyla Ululani Mendez and Kailihiwa “Hiwa” Vaughan-Darval.  Join these accomplished ladies of hula as they share their experience of preparing, competing and winning the coveted title of Miss Aloha Hula, Merrie Monarch Festival’s female soloist of the year.  Chosen by their kumu to represent their halau, they exemplify the commitment, inspiration, hard work and special character necessary to earn the title.  Questions and discussion will be encouraged, as you enjoy the presence of these “best of the best.” 

Tiare Noelani Chang

Saturday 12 May 2012
Morning 8:00-10:00 Hula Kahiko Intermediate/Advanced “Pua Ana Ka Makani”
IMPLEMENT:  Single `Uli`uli
This chant was composed by the people of Kaua'i & Ni'ihau for Queen Ka'ahumanu, to commemorate her marriage to Kaumuali'i, High Chief of Kaua'i.  It describes the wind-blown hala (pandanus) of Malelewa'a, and the fragrance of its hinano blossoms.  You must bring your own implement to this class.

Sunday 13 May 2012
Afternoon 2:00-4:00 Hula `Auana Intermediate “Ka Lehua Punono”
Composed by Kalikolihau Hannahs Paik, comparing the beauty of the mature lehua blossoms to fine young woman, and the birds that gather to seek out the finest blossoms. This mele can be found on `Ale`a’s CD “Kaulupono.”

April Chock

Friday 11 May 2012
Afternoon 2:00-4:00 Hula `Auana Intermediate “Pua Carnation”
This Charles E. King classic describes the aching heart of one whose lover has gone away.  Calling the carnation “fairest of all flowers,” the writer implores his pua carnation to remember their love and return to his arms.

Sunday 13 May 2012
Afternoon 2:00-4:00 Hula `Auana Intermediate “A Maile Lei For Your Hair”
Perhaps the most popular adornment foliage is the maile vine, famous for its evocative and distinctive scent.  As composer Norman Kaye says in this song, a maile lei is “a sweet aloha made with loving care.”  This song can be found on the CD “Karen Keawehawai'i, Songs of Old Hawaii, Vol 1.”

Ed Collier
 
Saturday 12 May 2012
Morning 8:00-10:00  Hula `Auana Advanced  "
Roselani Blossoms"
A love song written by John Kameaaloha Almeida, prolific composer of over 300 songs, many dedicated to flowers.  These pua, of course, represent various women, who have the attributes of the chosen blossoms.  Perhaps because he was blind, Almeida writes vivid and sensual descriptions with great feeling.  In "Roselani Blossoms," the setting is Maui, as the roselani, or lokelani in Hawaiian, is the emblematic flower of Maui.  In this mele, the roselani is described as a cherished beauty, for whom the singer expresses deep love and yearning.  Hear Mr. Almeida sing it on the CD "John Kameaaloha Almeida."
 
Morning 10:30-12:30  Hula Kahiko Int/Adv  "Kahiko Ka Pua Nani I Nu`uanu"
This is one of many mele ho`ihi or chants of praise and it honors Queen Emma.  Translated, it means "The beautiful blossom is an adornment at Nu`uanu."  The mele speaks of how she is revered by the people of Hawai`i and especially her husband, Alexander Liholiho, King Kamehameha IV.  She is truly acknowledged as Hawai`i's Queen.  The flower mentioned in the song is the lehua, to which Emma is likened.  It is a standing hula `ala`apapa kuhilima.  The choreography is by kumu, Ed Collier.

Momi Cruz-Losano

Saturday 12 May 2012
Morning 10:30-12:30 Hula `Auana Intermediate “Ka Lehua I Milia”
This classic love song by Mary Pukui and Maddy Lam describes the lehua blossom of the uplands, caressed by the misty rain.  So lovely in melody and poetry, this mele is one of the most popular for hula.
 
Afternoon 2:00-4:00 Hula `Auana Intermediate “Pua Lokelani”
In this special song, written to honor singer-songwriter Kelii Blaisdell, the roselani blossom of Maui is used to represent this talented man.  His influence through music is compared to the wafting fragrance of the flower of his home island.

Ainsley Halemanu

Friday 11 May 2012
Morning 10:30-12:30 Hula Kahiko Beginner “Ke Ao Nani” HO`IKE
The quintessential beginner’s hula, from Mary Kawena Pukui’s collection, this chant tells of the birds, flowers, trees and fishes found in the various parts of our beautiful world.  Dancers may ho`ike, or perform this hula at kumu’s Waikiki hula show the same night.

Saturday 12 May 2012
Afternoon 2:00-4:00 Skill Workshop Lei Making “Wrist Kupe`e”  MATERIALS $15.
Made in the haku or traditional braided style, these hula dancer’s bracelets can be made of many materials.  Learn to haku or braid the plant materials, without the need for a base strip or wrapping twine.  This useful style can be made in the field, as you pick plants, and can be applied to neck or head lei as well.  Your kit will contain enough material for (2) kupe`e.
 
Sunday 13 May 2012
Morning 10:30-12:30 – Seminar  “How to Gather Plants for Adornments”
In this seminar, kumu Ainsley will share his depth of knowledge on gathering plants for hula adornments.  He will cover spiritual protocol, environmental sensitivity, quantities and types appropriate for various uses, how to order purchased materials, how to store finshed items – in short, everything you need to know for successful and proper gathering.
Sunday 13 May 2012
Afternoon 2:00-4:00 Skill Workshop "Braided Neck Lei"  MATERIALS $40.
Made in the haku or traditional braided style, these impressive lei can be made of many materials.  Learn to haku or braid the plant materials, without the need for a base strip or wrapping twine or stringing thread.  This useful style can be made in the field, as you pick plants, and can be applied to wrist and head lei as well.

Kapi`olani Ha`o

Friday 11 May 2012 Morning 10:30-12:30 Hula `Auana Intermediate “Lei Pikake” HO`IKE
This haunting lovesong likens the object of affection to the tiny, fragrant pikake blossom. Recorded by Hapa on their CD ”Collection,” theirs is the version taught here.  Dancers may ho`ike, or perform this hula at kumu’s Waikiki hula show the same night.

Sunday 13 May 2012 Morning 8:00-10:00 Hula `Auana Intermediate "Ka Eha Ke Aloha"
Written by Frank Kapuokalani Hewett, this song was inspired by the mythical saga of the snow goddess Poliahu and her lost love.  It describes the freezing rain of Lilinoe and the cold of Mauna Kea, which mirror her weeping and the ache in her heart, but the loving memories of when they were together bring warmth and comfort.  Recorded by Sean Na'auao on his CD of the same name.

Leimomi Ho

Friday 11 May 2012
Morning 10:30-12:30 Hula `Auana Beginner “Ka Pua U`i”  HO`IKE
Written by Bina Mossman for her granddaughter, this lovely mele calls her ”a beautiful flower of the heavens.”  With a lilting melody, this is a gem in any hula dancer’s repertoire.  Dancers may ho`ike, or perform this hula at kumu’s Waikiki hula show the same night.
 
Saturday 12 May 2012
Morning 10:30-12:30 Hula `Auana Advanced “Pua Mikinolia”
The rain patters on the roof and the kahuli snails are singing in the upland, as lovers take refuge together. This love song likens the loved one to the sweet-smelling magnolia blossom.  As found on Kealii Reichel’s CD ”Kamalei – Collection Two.”

Calvin Hoe

Saturday 12 May 2012  Morning 10:30-12:30
Skill Workshop “’Ohe Hano ‘Ihu (Hawaiian Nose Flute) Make and Play” MATERIALS $5.
Ohe Hano 'Ihu is the Hawaiian Nose Flute, a bamboo tube with holes, played like most flutes with fingers working the holes, but instead of using the mouth to produce air flow, the nose is used to blow into the flute, producing a haunting, distinct sound. In this workshop you will make your own flute with Hawaiian designs, learn its history and stories, how to play it and compose music with it -- all from the world's foremost expert on the nose flute.

Dodie Holmes & John Aiwohi

Friday 11 May 2012
Afternoon 2:00-4:00 Hula `Auana Advanced “Pakalana Ke Aloha”
A song written by Kanai`a Nakamura of the singing group Holunape for his sweetheart, who later became his wife.  Choreographed by Auntie Dodie as part of her 'uniki rites,it is very much in the tradition of her kumu hula and mentor, Aunty Maiki Aiu-Lake.  The song can be found on Holunape’s CD “Ahea? Ano!”

Sunday 13 May 2012
Morning 8:00-10:00 Hula `Auana Intermediate "Lei Lokelani”
A beautiful song by Charles E. King for the signature lokelani blossoms of Maui.  The cherished loved one is a flower fragrant and beautiful, strung into a lei to wear proudly. This is a simple hula, but simple can sometimes be challenging.  Choreographed by Aunty Maiki Aiu-Lake. 

Hula Preservation Society

Friday 11 May 2012
Morning 10:30-12:30 Seminar “Kent Ghirard and his Legendary Hula Nanis”
Join us as we honor 93-year old Kent Ghirard and his premiere 1950’s troupe, The Hula Nanis.  The young women in the troupe between 1947-1961 knew it was a privilege and honor to be counted among its ranks.  Uncle Kent is often credited with creating the “precision hula line,” yet as one esteemed kupuna described it, “He brought precision - with heart.”  Come meet Uncle Kent and original members of his troupe, hear stories of times gone by, and take in the hula magic that is Uncle Kent’s Hula Nanis!  Presented by Hula Preservation Society.

Saturday 12 May 2012
Morning 8:00-10:00 Seminar
“Honoring the Ancients: Rare Hula Implements Brought to Life!”
You will have the unique opportunity to experience four rarely seen forms of ancient hula - Papa hehi (treadleboard), `Ulili (spinning gourd rattle), `Ohe Hano Ihu (nose flute), and Ki`i (Hawaiian puppetry).  The set of dances come from the esteemed traditions of the late Auntie Nona Beamer, Uncle George Naope, and Uncle John Keola Lake.  The program will be presented by HPS’s youth troupe, Hui Pulelehua, whose students range in age from 10 – 17 years, and are under the direction of na Kumu Hula Maile Loo (Beamer line), Iwalani Kalima (Naope line), and Kaponoai Molitau (Lake line).  Presented by Hula Preservation Society.

Sunday 13 May 2012
Morning 8:00-10:00 Seminar  “Paying Tribute to Renowned Kumu Hula `Iolani Luahine”
Dancer Extraordinaire Queenie Ventura Dowsett honors her Kumu through engaging talk-story and unforgettable hula.  Several videos will be shown, including one produced by HPS featuring Auntie Queenie in 2010 and another highlighting the unforgettable hula of her late Kumu Auntie `Io in the twilight of her life in the 1970’s.  Come join us as Auntie Queenie honors her own hula “queen.”  Presented by Hula Preservation Society.

Kulaniakea (Lani Girl) Kaleiki-AhLo

Friday 11 May 2012
Morning 10:30-12:30 - Hula Kahiko Intermediate/Advanced "Ula No Weo" HO`IKE
A hula standard with many versions, this mele extolls the beauty of Kaua`i, from the ginger at Nohili point to the rain of Hanalei.  This version is from Noble's Hawaiian Hulas, in honor of Kamoha`i, a Kaua`i chief.  Dancers may ho`ike, or perform this hula at kumu’s Waikiki hula show the same night.

Saturday 12 May 2012
Morning 8:00-10:00 - Hula `Auana Intermediate “My Sweet Pikake Lei”
With lyrics written by Kaleo Chock as a birthday gift for Robert Uluwehi Cazimero, who added the music, this touching song has become a modern standard.  It describes the sweet scent of pikake as friendship sewn into a lei -- to wear as an embrace.

Iwalani Kalima

Saturday 12 May 2012
Afternoon 2:00-4:00 Hula `Auana Advanced "Ka Hinano O Puna"
This mele by Kainani Kahaunaele was written one night when Pele's fires were lighting up the sky, highlighting a beautiful hala tree and its hinano (male) blossoms.  She tells of a yearning for love, of affections carried on the Moani`ala wind of Puna.  The songwriter loves these motions by Kumu Iwalani, and you will, too.  The mele is on Kainani's CD "Na`u `Oe."

Sunday 13 May 2012
Morning 10:30-12:30 Hula `Auana Intermediate "Pua Lei Aloha"
Written by Bill Aliiloa Lincoln, this is a sweet love song, imploring the loved one, "my flower, my lei of love," to come.  The singer (and dancer) beckons with gentle eyes and soft voice, begging the object of affection to answer this greeting of love from the heart.  This mele can be found on the Na Palapalai CD “Ke `Ala Beauty.”

Colsen "Ina" Kanei

Friday 11 May 2012
Afternoon 2:00-4:00 - Hula `Auana Intermediate “Pua Mae`ole”
Written by John “Squeeze” Kamana, with help from Aunty Vicki I`i Rodrigues, for his daughter, this beautiful classic song tells of love for a never-fading blossom.  Mahi Beamer’s recording of this song first popularized it, and has become a classic.

Saturday 12 May 2012
Morning 8:00-10:00 - Hula Kahiko Beginner “Kawika”
A stock hula belonging in every dancer’s repertoire, this is a name song for King David (Kawika) Kalakaua.  The pua in this mele refers to the people of Hawaii, as well as the chosen pua of high rank, the king himself. This mele mentions England and France, to whom the king had appealed for financial aid for Hawai`i.

Ku`ualohanui Kauli`a

Sunday 13 May 2012
Morning 8:00-10:00 – Skill Workshop “`Olelo Hawai`i (Hawaiian Language)”
Introduction to Hawaiian language.

Morning 10:30-12:30 – Skill Workshop – “`Olelo Hawai`i (Hawaiian Language) for Hula”
Featuring key words and phrases heard in chant and song for hula.  Learn to identify and understand the common symbols and sayings of hula music.

Kimo Alama Keaulana

Saturday 12 May 2012
Morning 10:30-12:30 Seminar "The History and Pageantry of  Lei Day in Hawai`i”
In 1927, poet and writer Don Blanding conceived the idea of Lei Day.  It coincides with May Day, the western celebration of Spring, but Lei Day is distinctly Hawaiian.  For Lei Day, the custom is to make a lei, wear a lei, give a lei.  The celebration of Lei Day today includes a Lei Queen and Court, a prestigious lei-making contest, concerts and special events, celebrating the fact that we live in a Paradise. Learn all about the fascinating history, protocol and pageantry of Lei Day in this seminar. Questions and discussion are welcome.

Afternoon 2:00-4:00 Hula Kahiko Intermediate/Advanced "Ka Liko Pua Kukui”  IMPLEMENT:  `Ili`ili (water-worn stones)
This is a seated (noho) hula with a sweet sounding chant that tells of a loved one who is  symbolized by the budding blossom of the kukui tree.  Because of its nature, this old and popular hula is reserved for adults.  You must bring your own implement to this class.
 
Mike Kop

Friday 11 May 2012
Morning 10:30-12:30 Skill Workshop "`Uli`uli (Feather Rattle)"  PART I   MATERIALS $55 (Materials for second implement, to make a pair, available for $45)   Make a single feather rattling implement, the ‘uli’uli, with this master implement crafter and teacher, in a two-part workshop. This implement is often used in seated, self-accompanied hula kahiko, and also in standing hula kahiko. Includes history and background, how to play and take care of the implement. Feather-work cap will be started in Part I of the class, and may be continued on your own in the interval between Part I and Part II. A variety of feather colors will be available. You can use the implement with or without the feather cap. This is a two-part class, finishing Sunday 8:00-10:00. You must take Part I and Part II to complete this workshop.

Afternoon 2:00-4:00 Skill Workshop "Ipu Heke (Double Gourd Drum)”  PART I    MATERIALS $88
Make your own double gourd drum, the classic Ipu Heke, with one of Hawaii’s finest implement makers. This instrument is used to accompany oneself or other dancers as ho`opa`a. Made of two gourds, the top and bottom much be matched, then sealed together. Size is small to medium. You will make a braided rope handle to complete the implement. This is a two-part class, finishing Sunday at 2:00-4:00. You must take Part I and Part II to complete this workshop.

Saturday 12 May 2012
Afternoon 2:00-4:00 Skill Workshop "Ipu Hula (Single Gourd Drum)"   MATERIALS $30
Make your own single gourd drum, the Ipu Hula, also known as Ipu `Ohe, or Ipu Heke `Ole, used as a dance implement, with one of Hawaii's finest implement makers. Made of a single gourd, with the top cut off. Size is medium 25-28 inches circumference.

Sunday 13 May 2012
Morning 8:00-10:00 Skill Workshop "`Uli`uli (Feather Rattle)" PART II
In which you complete making a single feather rattling implement, the ‘uli’uli. You must have taken Part I on Friday.

Afternoon 2:00-4:00 Skill Workshop "Ipu Heke (Double Gourd Drum)” PART II
In which you complete making an ipu heke double gourd drum. You must have taken Part I on Friday.

Ku`uipo Kumukahi

Sunday 13 May 2012
Afternoon 2:00-4:00 Seminar (sing and play along) “Songs of May Flowers”
Join this award-winning recording artist and composer in learning and playing songs celebrating flowers. There are countless Hawaiian songs about flowers, demonstrating their importance in Hawaiian life and poetry, in which they often symbolize a loved one.  You are invited to bring your ‘ukulele and play as well as sing along, but it is not required.

Anthony La`akapu-a-Kawailani Lenchanko

Friday 11 May 2012
Afternoon 2:00-4:00 Skill Workshop Oli (Chant) Beginner
Experience the rare opportunity to learn the basics of oli from one of Hawai`i’s renowned chant masters.  The chant to be shared is “Onaona i ka hala me ka lehua” (Frangrant is the hala with lehua).
 
Saturday 12 May 2012
Morning 8:00-10:00 Skill Workshop Oli (Chant) Intermediate
Expand your foundation of Hawaiian chant with this master of oli.  You will learn two chants in this workshop:  “Mapu ka hanu o ka laua’e i ka pali” and “O Kalalau pali a’ala ho’i e.”

Joan S. Lindsey

Saturday 12 May 2012
Morning 10:30-12:30 - Hula `Auana Beginner “Pua Mamane"
This mele has such appeal, it has been recorded by George Helm, Dennis Pavao, Kealoha Kalama, Gabby Pahinui and many others.  While it typically compares a loved one to a flower, this mele also mentions the landmarks of Kaua`i, lending itself to expressive hula motions.

Afternoon 2:00-4:00 - Hula `Auana Intermediate “Naupaka”  HO`IKE
The petals of this small white flower form only half a blossom.  There is a naupaka that grows in the mountains and its mirror that grows by the sea.  Myth has it that these are the plant form of tragic lovers, separated in life, who reunite when the two blossoms are brought together as one.   Dancers may ho`ike, or perform this hula at kumu’s Waikiki hula show the same night.

Lilinoe Lindsey

Sunday 13 May 2012
Morning 8:00-10:00 Hula Kahiko Int/Adv “No Luna E Ka Hale Kai O Ka Ma`alewa”
From the Pele and Hi`iaka Saga. "Ka Hale Kai is in the heights above the tree-root steps" where Hi`iaka goes to ask a goddess to calm the seas she must cross. She likens the strong, feminine lehua tree to her dear friend Hopoe, and is alarmed that the rough seas may portend destruction from the wrath of Pele.

Morning 10:30-12:30 Hula `Auana Advanced "Pua `Ahihi"
By Mary Kawena Pukui and Maddy Lam, this mele was composed for Kahauanu Lake as a gift for his wife, kumu hula Maiki Aiu Lake.  The `ahihi is a lehua-family shrub with a beautiful red blossom; it grows profusely at Lanihuli, highest peak of Nuuanu Pali. This is a classic love song which every dancer is proud to add to their repertoire.

Keawe Lopes

Saturday 12 May 2012
Morning 8:00-10:00 - Hula `Auana Intermediate  Ku`u Lei    HO`IKE
Ku`u Lei was composed by the renowned Bina Mossman who was one of the first women in Hawai‘i to serve in the Territorial Legislature. It is said that in 1939 while she was sitting at her desk waiting for a speech to end, this particular mele came to her. The "lei" in this mele is a metaphor for someone very special, one who is sweet and therefore cherished.  Dancers may ho`ike, or perform this hula at kumu’s Waikiki hula show the same night.
 
Tracie Farias Lopes

Sunday 13 May 2012
Morning 10:30-12:30 Hula `Auana Intermediate “Pikake Onaona”
Composed by Mr. Kaipo Hale, “Pikake Onaona” is likened to one who is a dear friend.  The pikake is a prized blossom and the composer honors its true beauty in this mele.  “These are my thoughts of you, the choicest flower.”

Afternoon 2:00-4:00 Hula `Auana Beginner “Ku`u Lei `Awapuhi”
This lovely song is a composition by Mrs. Abbie Kong Wilson, who was a famed singer with the Royal Hawaiian Band. The setting of the mele takes us to the verdant valley of Nu`uanu, famed for its red lehua `ahihi and yellow ginger blossoms.
 
Noelani Mahoe

Friday 11 May 2012
Afternoon 2:00-4:00 Seminar “Favorite Hula Songs”
Come learn some of our favorite traditional hula songs with one of Hawai`i's most renowned music experts and singing teachers. We will continue from last year, adding new songs to your hula music repertoire. Sing along, bring `ukulele (optional).

Saturday 12 May 2012
Morning 8:00-10:00 Skill Workshop “Play `Ukulele For Hula”
It is widely popular now to play the `ukulele with rapid notes fingered up and down its neck, and showy picking.  This is not traditional Hawaiian `ukulele, which gets its sound from chords and  strumming.  The strum is based on ipu beats from hula kahiko, and must remain clear and consistent to support the dancers properly.  Plus, it sounds wonderful!  Learn how to strum like a Hawaiian musician in this workshop with one of Hawai`i’s foremost musicians and teachers.  Bring your own `ukulele to this class.  You must already know how to play the instrument.

Hi‘ilei Maxwell-Juan

Sunday 13 May 2012
Morning 8:00-10:00 - Hula `Auana Advanced “Kuulei Awapuhi Melemele”
Written by Emily Kekahaloa Namau'u Taylor from Kau. This mele tells us how quickly love can leave us, like the misty rain of the forest searching for the awapuhi ginger.  Once found, they meet just for awhile in love’s sweet embrace. 

Morning 10:30-12:30 - Hula Kahiko Beginner “Ka Pua Loke O Maui” IMPLEMENT:  Single Ipu
This chant is from a collection from John Kahai Toplolinski, taught to Kumu Hi'ilei's mother,  Kumu Hula Nina Maxwell, in March of 1975.  It compares Queen Kaahumanu to the Lokelani blossom of Maui, and is a name chant for her. This mele will be a noho (seated) hula using the single ipu.

Twyla Ululani Mendez

Saturday 12 May 2012
Morning 10:30-12:30 Hula `Auana Intermediate “Ku`u Lei Pikake” HO`IKE
This lilting mele compares a loved one to the delicate and fragrant pikake lei.  It tells the lover, "Don't be shy, come to me so we can be together."As recorded by Keao Costa on his CD “Whee-Ha!”  Dancers may ho`ike, or perform this hula at kumu’s Waikiki hula show the same night.
 
Saturday 12 May 2012
Afternoon 2:00-4:00 pm  SEMINAR
PANEL  "The Merrie Monarch Miss Aloha Hula Experience"
Moderated by Maelia Loebenstein Carter, who will be joined by Twyla Ululani Mendez and Kailihiwa “Hiwa” Vaughan-Darval.  Join these accomplished ladies of hula as they share their experience of preparing, competing and winning the coveted title of Miss Aloha Hula, Merrie Monarch Festival’s female soloist of the year.  Chosen by their kumu to represent their halau, they exemplify the commitment, inspiration, hard work and special character necessary to earn the title.  Questions and discussion will be encouraged, as you enjoy the presence of these “best of the best.”
 
Sunday 13 May 2012
Morning 10:30-12:30 Hula Kahiko Int/Adv  “E Ho`i Kealoha I Ni`ihau”
"Love returns to Ni`ihau" in the person of Kapiolani, and in this mele the signature places of that tiny island are described: the hidden waters of the pao`o fish, the breadfruit of the flatlands and sugar cane which is dug out of the sand. It also mentions nearby Nihoa and Kaua`i islands. A song for Kapiolani.

Derek Nu`uhiwa

Saturday 12 May 2012
Morning 8:00-10:00 Hula `Auana Intermediate “Pua Melie”
Edith Kanakaole’s classic 1979 song features the plumeria blossom, also called pua melia.  The lilting melody rises to carry the song’s praises of the flower growing “up so high”, whose fragrance embraces the land.  As recorded by Keao Costa on his CD “Whee-Ha!”

Morning 10:30-12:30 Hula `Auana Intermediate “Green Rose Hula”  IMPLEMENT Double `Uli`uli
In this popular mele hula, the green rose represents a beloved.  The green rose is actually made of the leaves of this exotic plant, always in bloom and exuding a unique spicy scent.

Kale Pawai

Friday 11 May 2012
Afternoon 2:00-4:00  Hula `Auana Beginner “Pua `Iliahi” HO`IKE
This is the blossom of ther frangrant sandlewood tree, which was abundant in the time of Kamemeha I.  Attributed to the great falsetto singer Bill Aliiloa Lincoln, this upbeat mele is cry of yearning to a faraway lover.  Dancers may ho`ike, or perform this hula at kumu’s Waikiki hula show the same night.

Sunday 13 May 2012
Morning 8:00-10:00  Hula `Auana Beginner “Ka Pua E”
”Flowers are blooming all over, blooming all over Hawai`i!”  This perfect song for the merry month of May mentions several of them, inspiring a rousing hula.

Shirley Recca

Saturday 12 May 2012
Afternoon 2:00-4:00 Hula `Auana Intermediate "Kuhio Beach" HO`IKE
Written by incomparable songstress Ihihani Miller, this mele describes the area of Waikiki beach famous for its surfing, romance, Hawaiian music and moonlight.  It tells of the beachboys under the palm trees, playing and singing … “waiting and yearning for their Lili`u e,” the nickname for the young ladies they fancy.   Dancers may ho`ike, or perform this hula at kumu’s Waikiki hula show the same night.
 
Sunday 13 May 2012
Afternoon 2:00-4:00 Hula Kahiko Beginner "Pua Hau O Maleka"
A chant for Victoria Kamamalu, third and favorite wife of Liholiho, Kamehameha II.  It describes the queen as "ka pua hau o Maleka" (snowy white blossom of America) and speaks of her travels abroad with her husband. It asks, "Where are you?", as it searches for our queen in places like Niagara Falls, Russia, Asia and finally England, where she and her husband tragically died from measles, for which Hawaiians had no immunity.

Aukele Siangco

Friday 11 May 2012
Morning 10:30-12:30 Hula `Auana Intermediate "Kukuna O Ka La"
A celebration of nature, this song tells of fantasy attire on a trip around the world.  A garment of sunshine, a rainbow hat with a comet ribbon, the waves of the sea for shoes in which to slide across the ocean.  Kukuna o ka la means "rays of the sun," and is also a unique lei of orange pointed blooms which mimic the sun's rays.  Written by Rosalie Flores and Johnny Noble.

Sunday 13 May 2012
Afternoon 2:00-4:00 Hula `Auana Advanced "Aloha `Ia No O Maui"
"How we love Maui, decked with wreaths of roses and other fragrant flowers."  Alice Johnson's happy mele in honor of the land of Chief Pi`ilani points out signature landmarks such as Kahului harbor, `Iao stream, Haleakala mountain and the winding road which encircles it: the unforgettable beauty of Maui.

Pohai Souza

Sunday 13 May 2012
Morning 10:30-12:30 - Hula `Auana Intermediate “Welina O`ahu”
A mele composed by Robert Cazimero, Leina`ala Kalama Heine and Wayne Chang.  In it, beloved people to this trio of kumu hula are likened to Hawaii`s beautiful flowers.
 
Sunday 13 May 2012
Afternoon 2:00-4:00 - Hula Kahiko Int/Adv  “Kakuhihewa”
A mele of loyalty to the chief of O`ahu.  The non-native pua komela or camellia blossom is mentioned in the mele, as well as the beloved maile lau li`i li`i of Ko`iahi in Wai`anae and the lehua of Halemano.
 

Earl Pamai Tenn

Friday 11 May 2012
Afternoon 2:00-4:00 Skill Workshop  JAPANESE ONLY
Saturday 12 May 2012
Afternoon 2:00-4:00 Skill Workshop  ENGLISH ONLY

"Beats of the Ipu Gourd Drum" IMPLEMENT: Ipu or Ipu Heke (single or double gourd drum).   Learn the skill of accompanying dancers with an ipu or ipu heke (single or double gourd drum). With emphasis on the matching of footwork to drumbeats, you will also learn basic hula kahiko steps, along with hand positions and posture. You will learn basic drumbeats on the ipu and understand the responsibility of the drummer to keep time and proper pace for the dancer. The accompanying chanting will not be emphasized in this class. Recommended for those interested in hula kahiko who have never tried it, or those who want to perfect their basic stance, movement and drumbeats. In the style of hula master Henry Pa, kumu hula of Pamai Tenn. You must bring your own implement to this class.

Kaleo Trinidad

Saturday 12 May 2012
Morning 10:30-12:30 Hula Kahiko Beginner “Malua Ki`iwai”  HO`IKE
IMPLEMENT: Single Pu`ili.  A chant for the lovelorn, perhaps, which asks the parching Malua wind to bring the "water of love" to the thirsty mamane bud, as the birds nearby drink of Panaewa's nectared lehua.  You must bring your own implement to this class.  Dancers may ho`ike, or perform this hula at kumu’s Waikiki hula show the same night.
 
Afternoon 2:00-4:00 Hula `Auana Beginner “Niu Haohao”
IMPLEMENT: Niu (pair of coconut shell halves)   
IMPLEMENT PROVIDED FOR USE DURING WORKSHOP BY KUMU.
Bina Mossman wrote this popular mele to honor the coconut trees which grew in her childhood yard.  Her fondness for the young coconut meat (haohao) inspired this happy song, which has become a classic favorite.

Kailihiwa “Hiwa” Vaughan-Darval

Friday 11 May 2012
Morning 10:30-12:30 Hula `Auana Advanced “Ka Loke”
This “sweet” mele, composed by Mary Heanu and recorded by many, speaks of the various  pleasing attributes of the Rose flower.  The composer tells of an adoration for the “pua loke” or cherished one, and the many feelings those thoughts create.

Afternoon 2:00-4:00 Hula `Auana Intermediate  "He Wahine U`i”
Composed by John Kamealoha Almeida in 1935, this kolohe Hawaiian song speaks of the love for many beautiful flowers.  The lehua, kukui, mokihana, `ilima and the violet are likened to the lovely ladies of these islands.
 
Saturday 12 May 2012
Afternoon 2:00-4:00 pm  SEMINAR
PANEL  "The Merrie Monarch Miss Aloha Hula Experience"
Moderated by Maelia Loebenstein Carter, who will be joined by Twyla Ululani Mendez and Kailihiwa “Hiwa” Vaughan-Darval.  Join these accomplished ladies of hula as they share their experience of preparing, competing and winning the coveted title of Miss Aloha Hula, Merrie Monarch Festival’s female soloist of the year.  Chosen by their kumu to represent their halau, they exemplify the commitment, inspiration, hard work and special character necessary to earn the title.  Questions and discussion will be encouraged, as you enjoy the presence of these “best of the best.” 

Ipolani Vaughan

Friday 11 May 2012
Morning 10:30-12:30 Skill Workshop "Shell Lei" MATERIALS $30
Using the same intricate double-tied method Ni`ihau islanders use for their fine jewelry with tiny shells, this workshop will use over 200 tiny dove shells which are pre-drilled for stringing, to make a beautiful shell lei for you to take. Once you learn this method you will be able to apply it to authentic and valuable Ni’ihau shells in the future.  Kumu will use different colored shells from last year.

Saturday 12 May 2012
Morning 10:30-12:30 Skill Workshop "Lauhala Weaving: Bracelet" MATERIALS $15
Come and learn the art of Ulana Lauhala with two colors of Hawaiian Lauhala using the natural lau (leaf) of the pandanus tree to fashion an exquisite bracelet which can be worn or given as a gift. A fine weave chevron design will be taught, as well as the traditional "maka moena" style of weaving. This is the first time that this workshop is offered with this "Chevron Design" which is exclusive to the island of Maui. A kit will be supplied for all students at the cost of $15.00 each. Extra materials kits may be purchased at the end of class.

Sallie Yoza

Sunday 13 May 2012
Morning 8:00-10:00 - Hula Kahiko Beginner “Lei No Lili`uokalani”
Written by Aunty Malia Craver, this chant says, "Ahe pua e, ku'u Lani e" - "O precious blossom, O my Chiefess, Queen."  This chant was written in honor of Queen Lili'uokalani and her many good works for the children of Hawai`i.  She is the precious blossom adorning her proud people to this day, as her legacy continues long past her time on earth.

Afternoon 2:00-4:00 - Hula `Auana Intermediate  “Ginger Blossom”
A happy love song written by Natalie Ai Kamau`u for her husband `Iolani, who gives her a ginger lei on every occasion, because it is his favorite flower.  With each lei, it is as if he is placing his own self on her in a loving embrace.  Recorded by Natalie on her CD “`I.”
 
 

Space is limited. Register now!





A non-profit project of the Waikiki Improvement Association