UH Mānoa Choirs share virtual mele

University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
Contact:
Dan Meisenzahl, (808) 348-4936
Spokesperson, UH Communications
Posted: May 13, 2020

UH Mānoa Choirs perform “Waikā."
UH Mānoa Choirs perform “Waikā."

Link to video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_SNhe_AADY

WHAT:  University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa Choirs perform “Waikā” virtually online. The piece honors text taken from “Hole Waimea,” a chant composed for Kamehameha I. The piece was selected earlier in the spring semester in connection to the theme of honoring works passed down through oral lore. After transitioning to online learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the piece took on a new meaning.

WHY:  The piece is dedicated to frontline workers, UH alumni and students protecting their communities, graduating UH students and everyone “finding innovative ways to keep Hawaiʻi connected, thriving and resilient.”

WHO:  Led by Director of Choral Activities and Assistant Professor Jace Saplan, the group of more than 100 students encompasses four ensembles: the University Chorus, Concert Choir, Nā Wai Chamber Choir and the UH Chamber Singers.

HOW:  Students practiced on their own with virtual support from the instructors. When it was time to record, students sang to an accompaniment track individually in their homes. After receiving the individual recordings, UH Mānoa graduate student Nicholas Matherne compiled the videos into one cohesive performance.