Lahainaluna band seeks help replacing instruments lost to wildfire
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The music never died, but the Lahainaluna High School Band and Choir are still in recovery after the 2023 Lahaina wildfire.
Band teacher Jalen Baraoidan said many band students in Lahaina had their school instruments at their homes when the wildfire destroyed their residences.
"We lost about 20 instruments," Baraoidan said.
Band officials said the department was already short by 30, and the fire set back their goal of having a full array of instruments.
The Lahainaluna Music Department is holding a 2025 fundraiser with a goal of raising $30,000.
Baraoidan said band members are halfway there with two weeks to go.
The Lahainaluna High School Band plays at a football game as one of many activities for the band throughout the school year. The band also has played concerts, at homecomings and parades. Photo courtesy Lahainaluna High School Band. Courtesy photo
Founded as a seminary in 1831 before eventually becoming a public high school, Lahainaluna is the oldest school west of the Rocky Mountains.
Lahaina was the first capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom. The town has been a fountain of Hawaiian music and culture, with songs such as "Puamana" and "Lahaina Luna."
Substitute band teacher Kristen Takimiya said each participant in the music program has been given a monetary goal to help the band raise the necessary funds for new instruments and equipment.
The music department is also reaching out to the broader community.
With the help of Chadwick Kamei, a substantial donation was made by instrument makers KHS America and Eastman. Band director Jim Thompson also made a private donation.
The department said part of the money from the band fund will also go toward an Aloha Concert by the band at the Hyatt Regency Maui. The music department is also reaching out to the broader community.
"We understand that times are tough for everyone right now, but we are kindly asking for your support in any way you can," Takamiya said. "Whether it is through a donation or by simply sharing our fundraiser on social media, every little bit helps us get closer to our goal."
The instruments destroyed in the wildfire include several flutes, clarinets, saxophones, trumpets and a mini-tuba baritone.
Fundraising has been a challenge. Baraoidan said the band and choir took a hit in enrollment after the wildfire with the number of band members down from 120 to 80. He said some students had to move away from Lahaina or have been attending other school, but enrollment in the band is rising again.
The band plays at football games as well as concerts, homecoming events and performance exchanges. They also have performed at Lahaina Town's Halloween Parade and have performed at county fairs.
To make a contribution, go to Bit.ly/41VmuIH or call Jalen Baraoidan at (808) 268-4714.
Lahainaluna High School's music department is holding a fundraiser to replace instruments destroyed in the 2023 wildfire. Many of the students had school instruments at home when the fire swept across Lahaina. Photo courtesy Lahainaluna High School Band