Haku Mele: Hawaiian Language Composers

Written by Sunrise on KGMB9 - sunrise@kgmb9.com

June 20, 2008 07:20 AM

During the time when the olelo was discouraged and its usage declined, it was still heard and perpetuated through our Hawaiian music. While the steel guitar or ukulele may be the signature of Hawaiian music, for some, the real essence is in the work of the poet. Haku mele (composers) must be very adept in the language. "It's great if you want to try and write songs. But you must understand the language, the words, the lines, the hidden meaning because these days, many people know the language." The art of haku mele is well respected and musicians are privileged to have these artists share their songs with them. Weldon Kekauoha's album was up for two haku mele awards, one by Kainani Kahaunaele and the other by Ipolani Vaughn. And though music styles come and go, being grounded in the perspective of those who came before is important. Hawaiian music perpetuates our olelo and we are now seeing how the return of our olelo is in turn cultivating more great Hawaiian music for future generations.

Last Updated ( August 19, 2008 06:09 AM )

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