Waipuna

Saturday, November 2, 2024
7:30 pm — Davis Concert Hall

Sponsored by Alaska Airlines and Fairbanks Cancer Care Physicians

Hawaiian heritage is thriving, and Waipuna reflects the traditions passed forward from previous generations and the transformations that keep culture alive for the generations to come.

The trio of Kale Hannahs, Matt Sproat, and David Kamakahi bring a fresh, contemporary energy to Hawaiian classics and the island sound, preserving tradition while moving it into the 21st century.

After the release of their critically acclaimed first album Mana ‘o Pili in 2009, Kale and Matt, then a duo, began touring throughout Hawai’i and in the U.S. and Japan. David joined them on their sophomore release E Ho’i Mai, a collection of songs that pay tribute to their roots and recognize the people who have helped guide them. The band officially became a trio by the time they reached the Nā Hōkū Hanohano award ceremony in 2012.

Kale Hannahs is a veteran of the music scene, earning a reputation as a steady bass player and vocalist. His major in Hawaiian Studies finds voice in his songs. He has played and recorded with many of Hawai’i’s talented musicians and was a founding member of the award winning group ‘Ale’a.

Matthew Kawaiola Sproat was born and raised on O’ahu, but is from the famous Sproat family from the Big Island. In 2003 Matt won the Big Island falsetto competition, and has both studied and performed with some of the best musicians in Hawaii.

David Kamakahi, whose renowned father Dennis Kamakahi was one of Hawaii’s most prolific songwriters, started playing ’ukulele at the age of 15, studying greats like Eddie Kamae. His clear natural talent shines through in his exceptionally clean technique and exhilarating playing.

Like the fresh water from the mountain spring that travels downstream bringing life, Waipuna’s music rejuvenates the senses and delights the heart.