Festival News

March 30, 2026 • Addison Ching • Festivals and Conventions

Here is the latest news about HIMELE's steel guitar festivals and events.

Hawaiian Steel Guitar Festival - Keiki Kine at Ka Makana Ali‘i

LIVESTREAM
The April 4, 2026, Hawaiian Steel Guitar Festival - Keiki Kine at Ka Makana Ali‘i will not be livestreamed due to resource challenges with the livestream provider and a replacement provider has been identified.

STUDENT ARTIST REELS—A NEW PERFORMANCE FEATURE
A new performance feature of the Keiki Kine festivals will be the presentation of "micro stories" about their performance selections.

"We are thrilled to introduce 'Artist Reels' at our upcoming event!" says Kumu Alan Akaka, Director of Ke Kula Mele School of Hawaiian Music - the training ground for NextGEN steel guitarists. "By filming these short, personalized videos, we aim to capture more than just a performance–we are empowering our students to find their voice. These Reels allow them to share the personal significance of their music, build confidence, and showcase our unique musical traditions to the world. We want each student to have a professional digital 'stage' to highlight their dedication."

He continues, "Writing micro stories encourages students to delve into the composers, the rich history of the songs, and the unique mechanics of the steel guitar, transforming practice into an engaging history lesson." Students will transition from playing the song to presenting the micro story about their selection. This will help the student internalize the music and nuture their artistic expression beyond mere technical execution.

Each Reel filmed will be a lasting part of the instrument's contemporary history, documenting how music is taught and interpreted in 2026 and paving the way for future learners.

Through this initiative, the NextGEN participants are becoming cultural ambassadors. They are not just learning an instrument; they are ensuring its survival and relevance for their generation.