Tradition Hawaiian music varies from chants to Hula to stories. The songs and chants are usually accompanied by stringed instruments -- the ukelele which originated in Hawai'i, guitars, and bass. The music is usually song and accompanied by men, while women are usually the ones who dance (the traditional Hula). One of the very rare Hawaiian women quartets is the Hali'a group, and they performed for at our leadership team dinner. The name Hali'a means (loosely translated, relaxing, low-key, calmness) -- the type of music they play.
Quartet members, L to R: Kathy Au, Alice Kawakami, Susan Doyle, Vicki Shiroma
@danielwsc I have a 45 second iPhoto movie of them I can share with you on our next photo walk! It doesn't do them justice, but it does give a feel for their music.
@kimshots They told me they have two coordinating outfits - the black one you see here and a green pattern. I noticed they had matching leis as well. They went shopping together at one of their quartet's brother's sporting goods shop to pick out what each would wear in clothes with the same pattern. This is one of the themes I've noticed on my visits -- there is always a family connection!
@kwind Thanks! That's why I chose this photo -- they all look so happy! Could you tell from the smiles that the first and the third women (from left to right) are sisters?
I like turning tradition on its ear sometimes! (OK, most of the time). Good for them. That is a great portrait; the dark background and their dark clothing really emphasizes their faces.
A spectacular photo, beautifully capturing the loveliness of the women and their happiness as a quartet . . . the music floats into my mind as I see this image. I'm so happy to see this . . .
Would have loved to have heard them! I SO agree with Junko @jyokota that, seeing this, I can well-imagine the music! What fun to come across this "old" memory of yours!
