Pioneer of the “slack rock” guitar style, composer-singer, Makana, recently visited the Academy’s Select Choir class to talk about his experiences as a professional musician.
Makana, born and raised on the island, began singing at the age of seven. He turned professional at the age of 14.
Makana’s music integrates elements of folk, rock, ethnic, classical, jazz, traditional and Hawaiian slack key.
Ki Hoalu or “slack key” is an indigenous Hawaiian art form. Makana produces original music and reanimates traditional classics.
The Select Choir class demonstrated its talents for Makana by singing a few songs. Makana has been visiting various high schools in search of students to sing back-up vocals on a song for his new Christmas album.
