The Institute for Hawaiian Music (IHM) at the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College will form a cohort of students for the fall 2023 semester to participate in a free Hawaiian music composing course, “Haʻina Ko Wehi: Celebrating West Maui in Mele.” The course will culminate in the production of a compilation CD containing songs that the students will compose during the semester. Upon completion of the course, each participant will receive a certificate of achievement from IHM, a copy of the CD and a $750 stipend.
“West Maui is a storied and powerful area whose history is unparalleled,” said Assistant Professor of Music and IHM Faculty Coordinator Keola Donaghy. “Preserving this knowledge and these experiences through mele is a cultural legacy that will serve untold future generations. Excursions during the semester will include time to explore sites, gain familiarity with winds, rains, sea names, significant individuals, as well explore the songwriting process.”
In the first half of the semester, students will work with music industry mentors to learn the art and craft of songwriting (in both English and ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi) and music composition. They will travel to West Maui’s historic sites and learn from kamaʻāina (residents). In the second half of the semester, students will again work with their mentors to compose songs and prepare to record them. At the end of the program, students will record their songs at IHM’s Apo Leo Learning Studio.
Participation is limited to 12 students. All class sessions will be held on Saturdays.
An information session about the course will be offered on Wednesday, May 17 at 5 p.m. in Room 108 of the Kaʻaʻike Building on the UH Maui College Kahului campus, and also online via Zoom. Those who are interested but unable to attend may make an appointment to meet with Donaghy individually.
To learn more about the program, visit the UH Maui College website, or contact Donaghy at donaghy@hawaii.edu.
