If you’re cruising Waikiki tomorrow evening, then you’re bound to hear the sounds of the ocean. Earlier this month, the Waikiki Aquarium kicked off its summer sunset concert series “Ke Kani O Ke Kai,” which means just that in Hawaiian – “sound of the ocean.” Tomorrow’s performance will be the second one to showcase some of the island’s musical talent and will continue every other Thursday until Aug. 9, 2012.
Listen to the magical voice of Raiatea Helm tomorrow night at the aquarium.
Tomorrow night, Molokai native Raiatea Helm will team up with former Manao Company artist Weldon Kekauoha. On July 12, ukulele master Jake Shimabukuro will strum to the beat of the sea, followed by local group HAPA and slack-key guitarist Led Kaapana on July 26. Rounding out the five-concert series will be two more well-known Hawaiian slack-key guitarists Makana and Dennis Kamakahi.
It’s apparent that the aquarium only brings in the very best, as all musical acts have won multiple Na Hoku Hanohano Awards (the equivalent to the Grammy’s in the Hawaiian music industry) as well as a fair share of Grammys. In 2006, Raiatea Helm became the youngest female vocalist from Hawaii to receive a Grammy nomination. Since then, she has received eight Na Hoku Hanohano Awards, as well as another Grammy nomination in 2008.
Like Raiatea Helm – who has gained a broad fan base in Japan – Jake Shimabukuro is a virtuoso known for his complex finger work with the uke. He combines elements of jazz and rock into his music, giving him a contemporary edge over other ukulele artists. I’ve seen him perform on several occasions; one of them being during his first World Record attempt for largest ukulele ensemble in October of 2011. Just recently, he was a guest performer when the Dalai Lama was in town.
The aquarium galleries will remain opened during the concert nights until 8:30 p.m.
Music for the young and the old to be enjoyed and appreciated by everyone; and all the while, our marine animal friends rock out to the sounds of the ocean.
WAIKIKI AQUARIUM SUMMER CONCERT SERIES 2012 • Every other Thursday until Aug. 9, 2012 • Live musical performances and aquarium galleries opened till 830pm • Show starts at 7pm • Tickets available for purchase at www.waquarium.org/news-kkokk.html • 2777 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815
Photo Credit: Waikiki Aquarium
