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Ukulele Picnic in Hawaii is proud to present many wonderful
and renowned musicians at the picnic every year. Not only
musicians from Hawaii, but also from Japan and other places
will gather and share their talented skills. |
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Kazuyuki Sekiguchi
(producer)
Born in Niigata, Japan in 1955. While attending
Aoyama Gakuin University, Kazuyuki joined as a bass
player in the group "Southern All Stars".
In 1978, the band debut its original music "Katte
ni Sindbad".
In 1991, Kazuyuki met Ukulele musician Herb Ohta
who had been promoting the art of Ukulele throughout
Japan by producing books, video and CD's. Besides
performing, Kazuyuki expresses his creativity through
novels, essays, and a series of written columns.
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IWAO
In 1989, demo tape he send to the record company
has opened the door of debut by major record company,
Columbia Records. He has released 9 albums as singer
song writer. IWAO met guitarist, Yoshiyuki Sahashi
in 1991, was introduced to Ukulele. IWAO was greatly
inspired by Herb Ohta, he has been drawn to Ukulele
since. By the time in 1997, he was mainly known
as the Ukulele Player/ Guitarist. In 1999, He has
released an album "Ukulele Man". So far,
IWAO has released 8 albums and 2 maxi single. IWAO
frequently plays together with recording artists
from Hawaii as Herb Ohta, Herb Ohta Jr. and Jake
Shimabukuro. In 2006, released an album "Hawaiian
Morning" by Geneon Entertainment has co-featured
Kazuyuki Sekiguchi of Southern All Stars, Japan's
highly known Kumuhula and Singer Sandii and fast
breaking Hawaiian Duo Laula. IWAO as guitarist,
enthusiastically supports the concert and recording
for Shinji Hara, Shintaro Moriyama, Ketsumeishi
and various arena. |
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Kimiko Wakiyama
International champion whistler. Born in Fukuoka,
Japan. Garaduate of Kunitachi University of Music.
Kimiko Wakiyama, the champion whistler, who won
the women's crown at the 2007 International Whistlers
Convention (IWC 2007) in North Carolina. Wakiyama,
can whistle across a range of three octaves, which
means almost all vocal music is within her scope.
Beautiful feminine sound marks as " Lovely
Tune ". Debut album, " The Whistling Paradise " (April 23, Victor Entertainment), was released
as the first female solo artist. Without being bound
by the general image of whistling, thriving through
out TV programs and movies. |
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fulare_pad
Pop instrumental duo of Ukulele and Guitar from
Kyoto, Japan.
"fulare_pad" (phonetically "fla-ry-pad")
refers to a Japanese word "FURARI" meaning
free and easy.
Born and raised in Kyoto, childhood friends of
Daisuke Maeda, Ukulele, and Hideyuki Shimizu,
Acoustic Guitar, both picked up Electric Guitar
at age of 13.
Influenced by The Beatles and Pop-Rock bands in
Japan at that time, they enjoyed playing music
throughout the schoolhood. After graduating from
a high school, both Daisuke and Hideyuki took
a formal education of music and started to take
their own way aiming to be professionals.
A while after starting own career as music instructors
and armature musicians, Daisuke and Hideyuki met
again in the music field but with Ukulele and
Acoustic Guitar in their hands.
Being inspired by the unique ensemble created
by those two instruments, they decided to be on
a same boat to further their career and formed
an instrumental duo "fulare_pad".
In 2007, they released the first mini-album "fulare_pad"
and activated their live performances.
Thankful to the opportunity to perform in a TV
program at the local TV station in Kyoto, their
music reached to the ears of producers in Tokyo
and their popular tune "Summer Spur"
was featured in a TV commercial of a major cosmetic
company.
It had them make professional debut from EMI Music
Japan with "Kyo-Fu" in 2008. In 2009,
they got the second round to be featured in TV
commercial of the same cosmetic company with their
new song "Ocean".
They also released the second album "Furari
Trolley Tour" later in the same year.
In 2010, they made a trial of their music to
Jazz-Fusion field and won the 2nd prize at Sapporo
City Jazz 2010 Park Jazz Live Contest.
They also first produced own album “fufufu” which
came out as their 3rd album released in August.
fulare_pad is spreading its tale throughout the
nation with its soothing and refreshing acoustic
sound.
http://fulare.com
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Hiroshi Okada
First Japanese winner in the category of Hawai’ian language and the winner at Maui’s Falset Competition in 2005.
Hiroshi Okada released his own CD in Hawaii in 2006. He has also been actively performing at a large Hula competitions in Hawaii.
He is also known as one of the first Japanese finalists at the Na Hoku Hanohano Award in 2007. |
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Herb Ohta
Born in Honolulu1934. Start to play Ukulele since
7 years old. His early mentorship by Eddy Kamae
Ohta-san played as an amateur in Ed Salivan Show
in 1955. The first recording album "SUSHI"
made the hit through out the United States in 1964.
His lovely "A Song for Anna" written for
him by French composer Andr Popp was an international
hit in 1974 and has sold over six million copies.
He continues his concert tour which ignited the
fire of Ukulele boom in the 90's in Japan.
http://www.ohtasan.com/ |
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Ku`uipo Kumukahi
Ku`uipo Kumukahi is one of Hawai`i's top entertainers,
well-loved for her slackkey guitar and soothing
vocal stylings. Currently performing Friday nights
at Helumoa, Royal Hawaiian Center in Waikiki, Ku`uipo
has recorded 15 CDs in Hawai`i and Japan.
She and her recordings have won numerous Na Hoku
Hanohano Awards: Engineer Award; Liner Notes Award;
Graphics Award; Haku Mele (Song-Writing) Award;
Hawaiian Language Performance Award; Hawaiian Album
of the Year; Most Promising Artist; twice Female
Vocalist of the Year; Island Music Album of the
Year (2010); the prestigious Album of the Year Award
and the Traditional Hawaiian Album from the Hawaii
Music Awards.
A native of Ale`amai, Hawai`i, Ku`uipo's teachers
of Hawaiian traditions, morals and values were her
parents – Ululani & Kamuela Kumukahi. She is
the 5th generation living on Hawaiian land granted
by the royal patent of Kamehameha III to her mother`s
great grandfather and her father was a manaleo (native
Hawaiian speaker) from Okoe, Kona Hema.
From childhood, Ku`uipo was exposed to a fusion
of Hawaiian and contemporary life. Inspired by family
and the music of The Halekulani Girls, Marlene Sai,
Genoa Keawe and Haunani Kahalewai, Ku`uipo decided
to sing and play Hawaiian music.
She taught herself to play the `ukulele at the age
of 8, then the guitar and bass, and the Hawaiian
slack-key style of guitar playing. Ku`uipo is now
considered one of Hawai`i's finest slack-key players
and her Hawaiian Language performance in singing
is impeccable.
She is a hula student of Kumu Hula Karen Ka`ohulani
Aiu, in ho`opa`a training (chant and drumming to
accompany dancers). This delights Ku`uipo because
it is the ancient form of what she already does
as a musician and singer.
Ku`uipo currently serves on the board of the Hawai`i
Academy of Recording Arts as it's president, the
artisitc director for the Hawaiian Music Hall of
Fame Serenaders. She is a cofounder of the Maiki
Aiu Foundation, a teacher in Hālau Hawai`i, and
is a record producer for the label Ke`alohi, Ululani
Records & Ululani Media, produces the biennial
Mali`o Concerts and annual Lei of Stars Concert
for the Hawaiian Music Hall of Fame.
Ku`uipo has judged various music competitions, including
as the overall judge for the Kamehameha Schools
Song Contest. Ku`uipo narrated the Hawaiian language
version of Hawai`i Public Television's noted Biography
Series documentary on Princess Ruth Ke`elikolani.
Ku`uipo Kumukahi, "the Sweetheart of Hawaiian
Music," performs with life-long friend Ben
Ka`ili.
http://ekuuipo.com/
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Natalie Ai Kamauu
Hawai`i's best kept secret is no secret anymore.
In 2005, Natalie Ai Kamauu released her first album, "`E" and was awarded the very next year
by The Hawai`i Academy of Recording Artists with
the title of "Female Vocalist of the Year".
Natalie just released album #2, "`I".
Hawai`i's 2006 and 2009 "Female Vocalist of
the Year"... Miss Aloha Hula Natalie Ai Kamauu.
http://natalieaikamauu.com/
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Pali
PALI is the multiple award winning Contemporary
Hawaiian group known for their harmonies, onstage
antics, arrangements and musical prowess. PALI was
the pace setting act at the 2009 32nd Annual Na
Hoku Hanohano Award show, winning Album of the Year,
Island Music Album of the Year and Song of the Year.
Band leader and composer, Pali T.W. Ka`aihue studied
a wide range of guitar styles and techniques which
he's transfered over to `ukulele as well. His guitar
lessons included sessions with guitar virtuosos
Steve Vai at his studio in L.A. and Joe Satriani.
In 2008, one of his instrumental compositions was
featured on the Grammy Nominated "Slack Key
Kings Vol. II" CD. Aside from his musical contributions,
Pali Ka`aihue and wife Sachiko Uchida have a weekly
television program featuring all aspects of life
in Japan, DOKO GA TV: JapanMania. Doko Ga TV airs
daily on Cable network OC16 as well as online via
www.oc16.tv, dokoga.tv and youtube.
http://www.pali.net/ |
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Herb Ohta Jr.
International recording artist Herb Ohta, Jr.,
is considered to be one of today's most prolific
`ukulele masters. Influenced by Jazz, R&B, Latin
and Brazilian music, he puts his stamp on Hawaiian
music by pushing the limits of tone and technique
on this beautiful instrument. The son of `ukulele
legend "Ohta-san", he started playing
at the age of three, and teaching at the age of
9. He now shares the music of Hawai`i, and the beauty
of the `ukulele with people around the world, performing
and conducting instructional workshops. This seven-time
Na Hoku Hanohano Award nominee (Hawaiian equivalent
to the Grammy) and two-time Hawai`i Music Award
winner effortlessly translates the beauty and culture
of Hawai`i through his creative expression of music.
With eight solo albums, seven duet albums in circulation,
and contributions on more than 40 recordings, he
is well on his way to matching his father's legacy.
His latest release, "Cocolo:`Ukulele J-Ballads"
was a Japan only release in June of 2009. In 2010
Herb is celebrated his 20th Anniversary in the music
industry releasing two new recordings, "`Ukulele
Nahenahe" & "Take 1".
http://www.herbohtajr.com/ |
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David Kamakahi
David Kamakahi, composer & ukulele recording artist has been playing music since 1995. A student of Eddie Kamae, he didn't pick up an ukulele until the age of 15. Ever since then, he has recorded on 12 albums and has toured across the United States and Japan. In 2005 David won the Na Hoku Hanohano Award (The Hawaiian Grammy) for best contemporary album of the year for his debut solo album Pa'ani. He also had the privilege to perform with some of Hawaii's best musicians including Ledward Kaapana, Cyril Pahinui, Dennis Kamakahi, Mike Ka'awa, George and Keoki Kahumoku, Jon Yamasato, Herb Ohta Jr., Brittni Paiva, Brian Tolentino, and many others. David is currently working on his next project due to release in spring 2009. |
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Mark Yamanaka
The fragrant aroma of the pua kenikeni lei is unmistakable; a strong, permeating scent that lingers in the hearts and minds of all those who experience it. This beautiful garland is the perfect metaphor for this captivating collection of songs assembled by Hawaiÿi’s newest solo artist, Mark Yamanaka in his debut release, Lei Pua Kenikeni.
Every tune on this album represents a blossom; each scented bud, a song recalling the poignant memories and experiences that have shaped Mark’s life. Some are classic Hawaiian melodies, a handful are new compositions by Mark’s mentors and colleagues; yet others are familiar country ballads, and one very special song was composed by Mark for his daughter. He has strung them together into this adornment of music that will imbue the soul.
Like a blossoming flower, Mark’s undeniable talent has been nurtured from a young age by renowned musician, composer and kumu hula, Johnny Lum Ho, whose traditions produced some of Hawaiÿi’s most cherished Hawaiian falsetto singers like Darren Benitez and Nā Palapalai’s Kuana Torres Kahele. Like these contemporaries, Mark’s soaring voice is also perfectly suited for the specialized art of falsetto. He takes the teachings of Uncle Johnny and adds his own flair with enviable ease, then spices things up by effortlessly gliding into a rich and soulful baritone vocal.
Mark’s hometown of Hilo, Hawaiÿi has anxiously awaited this debut album from their charming native son. Join them and behold the unforgettable music of Mark Yamanaka with Lei Pua Kenikeni. |
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Mailani Makainai
Singer-songwriter Mailani Makainai returns to
the Hawaiian music scene with her first solo album
on the Mountain Apple Company label. "Mailani"
features her beautiful, unique voice and original
songs that have endeared her to fans in Hawai`i
and around the world.
Mailani, who grew up in Kailua Town on O`ahu's Windward
Coast, is part of a musical family. She started
singing at the age of two and taught herself `ukulele
while in high school. It was at Maryknoll Schools
that she met Lei Melket, with whom she later formed
Keahiwai, one of the most popular female duos in
Hawai`i.
Keahiwai released its first album, "Local Girls,"
in May 2001. "Local Girls" garnered the
duo two Na Hoku Hanohano Awards and growing acclaim.
Their sophomore album, "Satisfied," was
released the following year in 2002, and included
the hit song "Falling." The duo went on
to release three additional award-winning albums
and tour throughout Polynesia and the West Coast.
Mailani, who balanced her music career with college,
went on to graduate from the University of Hawai`i
at Mänoa with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Hawaiian
Studies. Subsequently, she built on her interest
in the healing arts by becoming a licensed massage
therapist and a practioner of lomilomi.
In 2003 and 2004, Mailani was honored to perform
at the Merrie Monarch Festival in support of Halau
Mohala `Ilima with Uncle Kihei, Aunty Mapu, and
their daughter Kapalai'ula de Silva.
In 2006, Mailani was invited to do a podcast with
Doctor Trey and Jroq that focused on the Hawaiian
music industry. This involvement led her to begin
a new project with two other women in the industry,
Jenn Jroq Wright of Kanalo and Simple Souls, and
Tiki Suan from Milo Shade. Together, they formed
Mighty J and in 2007, released the album "Calling
Out."
Mailani continues to explore new ventures, most
recently opening a boutique day spa in the Kalihi
neighborhood of Honolulu. The Oasen Spa is located
right next door to her parent's business, Makainai
Cabinets.
The 5 original songs on this new album hold true
to Mailani's belief in holding `ohana, community
and tradition close to her heart. Her sweet distinctive
voice and honest emotions come through in every
song, making her one of Hawai`i's most endearing
rising stars.
http://www.mailanimakainai.com |
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Napua Makua
As a dancer, Napua has trained under the direction of kumu hula Hokulani Holt-Padilla, and graced the illustrious Merrie Monarch stage as an olapa for kumu hula Johnny Lum Ho. In recent years, she has distinguished herself as a kumu hula as well, of Maui's Halau Na Lei Kaumaka O Uka. From her days as a dedicated dancer, to her rigorous `uniki training to be a kumu hula, the road to success has been filled with challenges she has met with poise and vigor. She has managed to maintain her traditional roots while also evolving as an individual, a kumu, and an entertainer. |
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Kenneth Makuakane
Na Hoku Hanohano Award-Winning Songwriter, Producer, and Recording Artist
Kenneth Makuakane is recognized as a successful
innovator in producing and recording Hawaiian music.
He has over one hundred albums to his producing
credits, working with artists such as Na Leo, Hapa,
Amy Hānaiali‘i Gilliom, Raiatea Helm, Obrian Eselu
and Jeff Rasmussen.
He performs with the multi-award winning group
The Pandanus Club, composing, engineering and
producing each release.
A prolific songwriter, Kenneth's compositions
have been recorded by local artists like the Brothers
Cazimero, Na Leo, Kapena, the Pandanus Club, Amy
Hanaiali‘i Gilliom, Loyal Garner and Gary Haleamau,
as well as international artists from Japan like
Yuri Chika and Yuki Miyamae. His songs have even
been performed many times over at the annual Merrie
Monarch Hula Festival, Hawaii's Olympics of Hula.
He produced a track on Kenny Loggins 2000 CD release
More Songs from Pooh Corner. And his music has
been on the soundtrack of major films like "Honeymoon
In Las Vegas" and "Parent Trap In Paradise."
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Jody Kamisato
Jody Kamisato was born on Christmas Day, December
25, 1977, in Honolulu, Hawai`i. Music has been an
integral part of Jody's upbringing. At just seven
years of age, Jody’s elementary school teacher gave
Jody his first `ukulele lesson. At the age of eight,
he began performing with the Honolulu Boy Choir.
During the next five years he had the opportunity
to travel all over the United States, record on
an album, and sing on several national T.V. shows
as well as commercials.
As a member of the “BS Band” with Bruce Shimabukuro
and Gary Akiona, they performed throughout Hawai`i
and toured Japan on numerous occasions to do live
shows and `ukulele workshops. In 2005 Jody's original
song "Ainakoa" was selected for "Aloha
Tofu's" official commercial song. In spring
of 2006 the "BS Band" released their first
album entitled "Incognito." Later that
year, Jody completed his first DVD entitled "Island
Style Ukulele".
In June 2007, Jody opened his own `ukulele school
called `Ukulele Hale located in Kaimuki. With a
talented and dedicated staff, he foresees a bright
and successful future and looks forward to a variety
of exciting projects with `Ukulele Hale including
community service opportunities, public performances
and a future Japan tour.
http://www.ukulelestudio.com/p/jody-kamisato.html
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Kainani Kahaunaele
Kainani Kahaunaele was raised by her grandparents in the rural community of Anahola, Kauaʻi surrounded by four generations of musical talent. Her love for Hawaiian music was infused at an early age, playing ʻukulele and harmonizing with her Kahaunaele, Pānui and Kaluahine families. Whether in church, on stage with the Kapaʻa High School Show Choir, at the backyard jam, or at the lūʻau, she was unknowingly in training as she was destined to share the music of her ancestors, her culture, and practices with a more global audience.
While earning her B.A in Hawaiian Studies with an emphasis in Hawaiian language at UH Hilo, this talented songstress started singing professionally and composing tradtional songs (haku mele) as Hawaiian language curriculum for ʻAha Pūnana Leo (a pioneering Hawaiian language revitalization program) that encouraged and promoted the documentation of our history through mele while also earning several Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards along the way.
In her latest cd release “ʻŌhai ʻUla”, Kainani and her Wish List Band team up with award winning producer Shawn Pimental and engineer Michael Grande to present an impressive collection of new original mele that depict ancestral practices, honor genealogies and storied locales, reveal deep romances, and offer up some traditional and contemporary musical styles sure to please any music lover.
www.kainani.com |
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The super jam
Profile in preparation now |
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