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Current Projects

Cultural Learning Trip

I recently had the opporutunity to take some of my haumana (students) back to Oahu with me to study hula kahiko (pre-contact hula) and hula auana (post-contact hula).  The experience was life-changing for them and was extremely rewarding for me to watch them grow as humans and global citizens.  

Polynesian Drumming

It was great partnering with Pasifika Drums to create and design new drums - Pates/Toeres, Fa'atete, Pahu Bass, and Pahu Tupa'i (plus stands, sticks, & mallets).  Pasifika is known for their work in creating drums for films such as Moana, Godzilla vs. Kong, Tomb Raider, and more.  See below for how they turned out!  Cheehuu!

Ambedos for Percussion

Ambedo refers to both the ability to collect and absorb.  It is a kind of melancholic trance in which you become completely absorbed in vivid sensory details—raindrops skittering down a window, tall trees leaning in the wind, clouds of cream swirling in your coffee—which leads to a dawning awareness of the haunting fragility of life.

This in-progress work is a collection of mutliple writings that utilize traditional and non-traditional percussion for both the performer and listener to focus on the concept and purpose of ambedo.  Check back soon for updates and/or to pre-order.

Post-Cancer Playing

Many of you know that I recently finished a battle with final stage cancer.  The lasting effects of the intense chemotherapy (neuropathy and other nerve damage) have caused a significant challenge to my performance ability.  For example, I have completely lost the muscle memory previous learned as to what each interval feels like in each range of the marimba using Stevens technique.  However, I am currently working on adapting techniques to return to pre-cancer ability.  It is my hope that this may help others experiencing similar nerve issues, be it from cancer or other conditions.  Our goal is to I'Mua!  (continuously move forward)
 

Time for Aiga/Ohana/Family

Time and health are our most valuable assets.  My goal post-cancer goal has been to spend as much meaningful time with my family.  We have not taken a moment for granted and we try our best to live each day to the fullest.  
"E leai se mea e sili atu i lo lou aiga" - Nothing is more important than your family.  I hope that you and your family live and love each day to its fullest. 

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