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In the Loop

Free festival spotlights Hawaii’s favorite instrument

Maui ‘Ukulele Festival is loved by uke players and fans of all ages. -- AMITY MASON photo, courtesy the MACC

Celebrate the musical tradition of Hawaii’s famous four-string instrument on Saturday, Sept. 28, at the 14th annual Maui ‘Ukulele Festival, a Maui Arts & Cultural Center free community music event. Bring low-backed beach chairs or blankets and relax on the lawn of A&B Amphitheater where you’ll be treated to an afternoon of island music kicking off at 1 p.m.

Featured ukulele artists include Paula Fuga, Kanekoa, Ahumanu, Derick Sebastian, Kamakakehau Fernandez, the Hula Honeys, Andrew & Jay Molina, Anthony Pfluke, Arlie-Avery Asiu, the Maui ‘Ukulele Sisters: Regan and Brianna Timmins, Nick Acosta, the Kalama Intermediate ‘Ukulele Band, the Seabury Hall Hawaiian Ensemble and others (artist list is subject to change).

Roy Sakuma, renowned ‘ukulele teacher and founder of the first and original ‘ukulele festival in 1971, will serve as Master of Ceremonies. Door prizes from the MACC will be given away throughout the afternoon, plus several finely crafted ukulele provided by Kamaka ‘Ukulele, Kanile’a ‘Ukulele, Koaloha ‘Ukulele, Ko’olau ‘Ukulele, Kanile’a ‘Ukulele, Mele ‘Ukulele, and Bounty Music. There will be displays of made-in-Hawaii arts and crafts, plenty of ‘ono-licious island food from Crepes D’Amour, Maui Cones, Three’s Bar & Grill, The Corn Project and Real Fruit Ice Cream, plus a variety of beverages available for purchase.

Prior to the festival, the MACC offers a free ukulele workshop from 10 to 11:15 a.m. in McCoy Studio Theater. Conducted by Roy Sakuma, the workshop is suitable for all ages and is designed for beginning and intermediate players able to hold C, F, G7 chords. Instruments not provided. No pre-registration is necessary.

For more information, visit www.mauiarts.org.

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