The Kamehameha Schools Children’s Chorus perpetuates the Hawaiian tradition of mele and the importance songs play in passing down knowledge, culture and values.
In its latest project – a CD aptly titled “Nā Pono Hawai‘i” (Beloved Hawaiian Virtues) – the all-keiki chorus puts its hallmark blend of professional showmanship and cherubic glee behind 10 songs centered around nā waiwai Hawai‘i.
“Each song highlights a different value we treasure,” said chorus director Lynell K. Bright, who has led the group since 1989 and wrote all the songs on the album.
As an example, Bright recited the refrain of “On The Other Side,” the eighth track on the album that features KS Kapālama alumna Crystal Nakamaejo.
“It’s about being hoʻomau – to be persistent and to persevere,” Bright said. “This song was written in the middle of the pandemic and asks, ‘Who are you going to be on the other side?’ It’s not about getting somewhere; it’s discovering who you are in the process.”
Haumāna gain new personal insights as well. Bright explained students absorb ‘ike both old and new over the course of the CD’s creation.
“They learn to memorize the songs and the meanings behind the words before going into a recording studio and working with an engineer to produce the album,” she said.
The children also see first-hand how pursuing a love of music can lead to a successful career.
In addition to Nakamaejo, artists lending their talents to “Nā Pono Hawai‘i” include Nathan Aweau, Raiatea Helm, Josh Tatofi, Cory Oliveros, Kala‘i Stern KS’92 and the trio Keauhou, whose members are graduates of the KS Children’s Choir.
“I really enjoyed the process,” said Shaely Coloma-Silva, a KSK fifth-grader and KSCC president. “Seeing it all come together makes me really excited. I hope that people will love our songs as much as we do. I am so proud of everyone for working so hard and dedicating so much of their time into making this CD.”
To celebrate the CD’s release, KSCC will host a concert Dec. 9 in the Ke‘elikōlani Auditorium. The show opens at 6:30 p.m. with a Christmas musical performed by sixth-graders from the Passion Pathway class. After intermission, the full children’s chorus will take the stage to share songs from the album. Also debuting that night will be three music videos, including one that will be shown during Hawaiian Airlines flights in 2023.
Bright hopes this collection of mele will spread this message of merriment year-round.
“Kids don’t realize the power they have,” Bright said. “Something special happens when kids sing. Adults let their guards down. You never know when a song is going to touch someone.”
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