Course Description

Here you will find the lyrics and translation for the first mele hula in the repertoire of the Academy of Hawaiian Arts, "Kahi Kēia ʻo Niʻihau."

This is the first hula taught to me by my kumu, Darrell ʻIhiʻihilauakea Lupenui (1976), with the help of Thaddeus Kihanuilulumoku Wilson and ʻOBrien Eselu. It is performed as a hula paʻi umauma (chest slapping dance) in the noho style (sitting position).

M K H

Kumu Hula Mark Keali’i Ho’omalu teaches the essence of Hawaiian history and customs through choreography of hula and mele (chants in the Hawaiian language). He founded the Academy of Hawaiian Arts in 2003, and his fresh approach to hula has made the group’s name famous in the Hawaiian arts and dance community.As a designer of ipu heke, pahu drums, ‘uli’uli and lei hulu, along with his chanting, music, and choreography, Kumu Hula Mark Keali’i Ho’omalu has established himself as a visionary artist with immeasurable passion for hula and Hawaiiana.

Course curriculum

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    Kahi Kēia ʻo Niʻihau

    • Kahi Kēia ʻo Niʻihau