31 Aug Hula Grill Kaanapali’s 20th Keiki Ukulele Contest

Invite your family to strum on down to the Hula Grill Ka’anapali Ukulele Contest on Saturday, October 15, 2016. 8:30am Check-in | 10am Contest. All contestants must be checked in by 9am.

Started by Keoki Kahumoku back in 1996, this contest is held primarily so Hawaii’s keiki can gain experience and be inspired to keep playing ukulele.  It is now in it’s 20th year because it has been so successful.

The contest is open to ukulele players grades K-12 and is broken down into three solo divisions (K-4, 5-8, 9-12) and one group division (all ages).  1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners will be announced for all divisions.  Top prizes furnished by KoAloha Ukulele; Additional prizes provided by Maui Jim, and Local Motion.  Pre-registration is required and entries must be received by Wednesday, October 5th.  Entry forms will be available at Hula Grill Kaanapali or by clicking the entry forms link provided.

For those just interested in watching these talented keiki, the contest kicks off at 10am and will be emceed by past group division winners, professional ukulele player Derick Sebastian and Native 92.5 DJ Dane Patao.  The contest begins with the youngest individuals and talent grows from there.

In addition to hearing these amazing keiki perform, this year’s event will be a who’s who of adult musicians.  Founder Keoki Kahumoku and father George Kahumoku Jr. will be present, as will many other past contestants.  The 20th Annual is all about bringing back those it helped.  “Many of the ukulele players Hula Grill employs have been past contestants” said Hula Grill General Manager, Orrin Cross.  “Musicians such as Peter de Aquino, Garret Probst, John Kahaialii II, Derick Sebastian. Niawi Teruya, Max Angel, and Andrew Molina all took part in this wonderful contest.  Can’t wait to see who the next big star is going to be.”