Friends of HIMELE

November 1, 2024 • Addison Ching • News

A new section has been added to the HIMELE website.

Friends of HIMELE recognizes and honors those individuals who have contributed selflessly over the years towards HIMELE's events and activities. These are volunteers who have devoted their time, energy, and resources in support of HIMELE's mission to promote and support Hawaiian music, culture, and the Hawaiian steel guitar.

Friends of HIMELE includes those who have supported HIMELE and Ke Kula Mele School of Hawaiian Music including students, parents, or other individuals who are aware of and believe in HIMELE's efforts. Honorees will be periodically added to the list of Friends and featured in the special section of the HIMELE website. The feature will include a condensed biographical sketch and a description of their involvement with HIMELE.

Sandy Sardinha

The first honoree is Sandy Sardinha.

Sandy has been in charge of the merchandise store for HIMELE steel guitar festivals throughout the state, beginning with the 2015 Maui Steel Guitar Festival. She supervised and coordinated sales of CDs, t-shirts, and other festival merchandise. She also put her photographic skills to use by helping to document school visitations.

During the Coronavirus pandemic, Sandy and husband Greg opened their home as a performance venue for Hawaiian Steel Guitar Showcase livestream performances. Their backyard, situated with a backdrop of the Ko'olau mountains, provided a perfect setting for the livestreams. Always the congenial hostess, she prepared snacks, meals and refreshments for the artists at every Showcase livestream at her home.

Please see the complete tribute and additional photos here.