ʻIke Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian Knowledge)
Experience the Spirit of Hīmeni Haipule with Musician Melvin Keakaku Amina
Join renowned musician Melvin Keakaku Amina for an inspiring lecture on the history, significance, and beauty of Himeni Haipule—Hawaiian sacred hymns. This interactive session invites attendees to bring their instruments and join in, creating a shared musical experience that honors tradition and deepens our connection to these powerful melodies. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore the heart of Hawaiian spiritual music!
Recommended Age: 8 and older
Duration: 2 hours
Class size: 50+ participants
One time slot available:
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Workshop Session 3 | Saturday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Your Instructor
Melvin
Keakaku
Amina
Oʻahu
Mel Amina is a musician, entertainer, singer, recording artist, and music workshop presenter.
Melvin Keakaku Amina was born and raised in Waialae on the island of Oʻahu. His family eventually moved to Waiʻanae. He is the son of Melvin Keakaku, Sr,. and Ethel Kamakawiwoʻole. His grandfather, Henry Kamakawiwoʻole, was the founder and pastor of Wai‘anae Pentecostal Faith Mission. Melvin’s father and mother also served as pastors, and today, his brother, Jay Amina, continues the family legacy.
His musical influence came from attending church and learning to play music for worship.
His professional music career began after his cousins, Skippy and Israel Kamakawiwoʻole, also moved to Waiʻanae. In 1974, Mel became one of the first members of the Makaha Sons of Niʻihau. Then, in 1982, he played for 3 Scoops of Aloha, a group that Skippy Kamakawiwoʻole started. In 1993, he was asked by his cousin, Israel Kamakawiwoʻole, to be a part of his solo debut on Hot Hawaiian Nights. After that, Mel became one of the members of the IZ Band.
He still continues to delight audiences with the music of Hawai‘i that he loves. He entertains at the Charthouse in Waikīkī, the Waialae Country Club, and the Halekulani Hotel, along with concerts and private gigs. He also travels to play music with his famous wife, Kumu Hula Leialoha Lim Amina, for concerts, hula competitions, as well as private hō’ike in Hawai‘i, Japan, and Korea.