IHM Students with mentor Kenneth Makuakāne at the 2015 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards.

Official Description: Develops a Hawaiian music repertoire and performance skills. Students will be assigned to a group that will be mentored by faculty and established guest musicians, and will perform both in-class and outside the classroom. 2cr., 2hr. lect./lab (HE, DA).

Prerequisite: Student must own a guitar, ‘ukulele, bass guitar, keyboard, or upright bass in acceptable working condition, and bring instrument to each class. If the instrument requires electronic amplification, student must bring necessary equipment to each class. Enrollment is restricted to those students who auditioned for the A.S.C. in Hawaiian Music program, were accepted, and have received a grade of “C” or better in all prior courses that are required for the A.S.C, or by instructor consent.

Extended Description: Students will rehearse and perform together at events that may be on campus or off. They will also receive mentoring from visiting musicians. Among those who have visited this class in the past are Keali‘i Reichel, Keola Beamer, Kenneth Makuakāne, Jake Shimabukuro, Mailani Maka‘īna‘i, Aaron J. Salā, Eric Gilliom, Pali Ka‘aihue, Ryan Kamakakēhau Fernandez, Erika Elona, Bran Apeles, Barry Flanagan, Tarvin Mākia, Kevin and Sheldon Brown, Ron Kualā‘au, Benny Uyetake, Raiatea Helm, and Bryan Tolentino.

This class is held once a week, usually on Thursday afternoon, for three hours. Students are required to commit to some rehearsals and performances outside of class time. We try to maintain flexibility knowing many students have work and personal responsbilities.