November 28, 2003
Contributed by Kekoa Paulsen
Seventeen compositions are featured, including "'O 'Oe Ia E Kalaninuimehameha," Song of Welcome for Kamehameha I; "Ka 'Olelo Ho'ohiki Kanaka Maoli," the Kanaka Maoli Pledge; and "He Inoa No Pauahi," A Name Song for Bernice Pauahi Bishop. Lead vocalists include Snowbird Bento, Manu Boyd, Kale Chang, Hailama Farden, Randie Fong, Tanner Henderson, Kamanukea Kekoa, Kalena Silva, Kaleo Trinidad and Ashley Warling. Classic literature such as "Kumulipo" and "Eia Hawai'i" are situated in poetic soundscapes as their respective stories unfold. Queen Lili'uokalani is remembered in her moments of grandeur and sorrow. Devotion to the 'aina (land) and the recounting of heroic deeds inspire a sense of duty and pride. Youthful expressions of allegiance to the land and the native people spur feelings of hope and promise for the future. I Mua E Na Poki'i is an eclectic lei of mele (songs) offered to the global community of Hawaiians and to all who love and support the culture of the indigenous people of Hawai'i. CDs can be purchased through music and bookstores statewide. Log on to the new www.kaiwakiloumoku.ksbe.edu. Web site for more information on I Mua E Na Poki'i a and wide variety of enriching cultural experiences such as audio samples of the song on the CD, video clips of Hawaiian cultural activities and documentaries, historical photos, a literary journal, a mele forum and a KS cultural events calendar.
Kamehameha Schools’ policy is to give preference to applicants of Hawaiian ancestry to the extent permitted by law.
