Sunday, June 23, 2019:
28th Annual Kī Hō`alu Guitar Festival. Join us for one of Maui’s favorite family events! Some of Hawai‘i’s best slack key guitar players will perform a full afternoon of melodious Hawaiian music.
Artists performing in the festival this year include Halemanu, Lance Takamiya, Brother Noland, Danny Carvalho, Michael Ka’awa, Wilson Kanakaole, Tavana, Dwight Kanae, John Keanaaina, Ka‘eo, Kamuela Kahoano, Pa‘ani, Wesley Furumoto, Will Tafolo, Aja Gample, Jonah Domingo, George Kuo, Will Tafolo, Wesley Furumoto, & Michael Kaawa. (artist list subject to change)
Kī Hō`alu, translating literally from the Hawaiian as “loosen the key,” indicating the tuning in slack key guitar technique, is a musical tradition dating back to 19th century paniolo who played around the campfire after completing a day of ranch work.
Slack key has become known as one of the world’s great acoustic guitar methods, especially since the Grammy Awards recognized Hawaiian music as a category all its own.
An abundance of relaxed lawn seating gives the event an informal, local-style atmosphere, making it easy to lounge all afternoon. Festival-goers are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs, blankets, or lauhala mats and relax on the grassy lawn to fully enjoy the laid-back music by famed guitar players.
This is a family-friendly event: All generations can enjoy the slack key guitar tradition, with both new music and classic favorites. Island crafters and merchants will be on site with displays of local arts & crafts for purchase, and food trucks will serve a variety of tasty lunch and dessert options.
CLICK HERE for the menu. mauiarts.org