Ka Wai Ola - Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Volume 36, Number 10, 1 ʻOkakopa 2019 — The echo of our song carrier us forward [ARTICLE]

The echo of our song carrier us forward

/uyef 10 -15

Music is fundamental to Hawai'i and our culture. In this special section we're showcasing a triptych of music in the past, present and (possible) future of Hawaiian society, all anchored in the foundational role that mele plays in our community. The first pieee poses thoughtful questions about the future role of Hawaiian music within the context of the global economy. Hawaiians are well-known for our musical eulture: our ali'i were also composers; a major Hawaiian school has televised singing contests; and our youth regularly roam school campuses as if they are troubadours, with 'ukuleles and guitars in their arms and a song in their hearts. Should we try to turn this talent and culture into

a global export? Eric Stinton poses this provocative question as food for thoughtful digestion. The second essay shows that, as were our diplomats like Ha'alilio, we have long been a global people. Luthier Kilin Reece traces the origins of mueh of modern stringed-music culture to Hawaiian innovators like musician Kealakai Mekia, who worked with the Martin Guitar Company to create what we now think of as the ieonie guitar. The third pieee by, Chad Takatsugi, is a snapshot of mele at the current time, a moment when the Hawaiian community is vibrant and alive with pride and action. The Maunakea protectors have awakened a new reason and season for songwriting, whieh we document here. Enjoy. ■