A lot like summer camp, the nights are magical and the days are filled with endless music and fun.  As you sit and enjoy your workshops, Keoki and crew are in the kitchen preparing another wonderful meal for us to enjoy using ingredients all from the local organic farmers and ranchers in the area.   Homemade Portuguese sausage, fresh peanut better cookies and poi that was harvested the day before, you wondered if Keoki could make anything more delicious than the last plate you inhaled.  The classes often feel like a rare opportunity, on the lanai, where your uncle just happened to have some time to sit and pass down something very special to you.  The nightly Kanikapila sessions seem endless, whether you are an experienced player, learning a new instrument, or just sitting in to join in the fun, at that moment, singing along, you are part of the Kahumoku Ohana.  The folks from the local towns come and join in, sometimes with a homemade Apple Pie for all to enjoy.

There is a special closeness that is hard to describe at this camp.  Surrounded by all this talent in the beautiful coastal countryside of Ka’u, it is all inspiring, challenging and quietly relaxing.  Join in the fun with others or sit under a tree to be alone in the beauty or jam with some new friends.  It is the place to learn the true meaning of Aloha.

The seven day workshop includes hands-on instruction from all of the these incredible artist, private one-on-one sessions, three delicious homemade meals a day, food demonstrations, day trips, Kanikapila, an instructor’s concert and so much more.  Instruments are available for your use during the workshop.  Join us as these award winning musicians and masters of their trade share their love of the music and cultural arts of Hawaii. 

Proceeds from your attendance helps Keoki and his family continue to give year around.  By donating Keoki’s own time teaching music and helping the community, and by securing funding from investors, private party donations and by your participation, they are able to give back to the communities of Ka’u during the entire year.  Providing music instruction, instruments and financial aid opportunities to many of the locals, some of which may not otherwise be able to participate, Keoki is fostering a place for many to share and learn.  His hope is to help carry on the traditions of music, food and lifestyle to future generations.  A goal that is already being met by many of the younger participants, ages 7-14, who have been working with Keoki on music and in the kitchen for the past 3 years.  These kids can pick up the ukulele and play just about anything from traditional Hawaiian to contemporary Jazz and Reggae and then jump in and help put together Kalua Pig, Lomi Samlon and Beef Stew for a group of 50!  Keoki’s non-profit the Center for Hawaiian Music Studies, does so many good things in the community.  Join us and help continue their work to perpetuate the culture of Hawaii. 

Donations to Keoki’s Non-profit Organization can be made to:  Center for  Hawaiian Music Studies, 385 Ululani St. Hilo, HI 96720