Music can trigger emotions and memories, a time machine that transports listeners to special moments. Many of us have that one song that has the power to take us back to a specific time and place or encapsulate an entire chapter of a life’s journey. It is amazing how just a few notes or a line in a chorus can evoke strong feelings and deep connections to our past … reminding us of our first dance, our first kiss and our first love.

Through the years, PBS Hawai‘i has taken many of you on strolls down memory lane, while sharing the beautiful gift of Hawaiian music. In 2024, we sang, danced and celebrated 25 magical years of PBS Hawai‘i’s iconic original program, Nā Mele. The silver jubilee is a testament to the strength and stability of public media, the passion and talent of our local artists and the loyal support of all of you – our donors.

Since its premier on April 15, 1999, featuring Dennis Kamakahi, David Kamakahi, Martin Pahinui and George Kuo, hundreds of singers, musicians and hula dancers have graced our Nā Mele stages. The program has played a pivotal role in preserving and promoting Hawai’i’s rich musical heritage and has become a platform for artists, emerging and seasoned, to share their talents, stories and the cultural significance of their music.

Over the past year, we received hundreds of thoughtful emails, phone calls, social media messages and even hand-written letters, thanking us for sharing the melodies, rhythms and lyrics from some of the giants in Hawaiian music. Nā Mele’s 25th anniversary celebration is not just a reflection on the past but commemorates our continued commitment to showcasing the beauty, magic and diversity of Hawai‘i’s musical traditions.

We understand that everything we do can only happen with your support.

Because of you … we can reach milestones like Nā Mele 25, a quarter-century of dedication, passion and artistic excellence in showcasing the beauty and magic of Hawai‘i’s musical traditions.

Because of you … we can venture into spaces we’ve never been before. Like we did on March 12, when PBS Hawai‘i hosted its first-ever livestream on location, a Nā Mele concert with Nā Leo Pilimehana from Halekulani’s House Without A Key.

Because of you … we can offer exclusive behind-the-scenes content and virtual events, like Nā Mele Rewinds with Melveen Leed, Brother Noland, Led Kaapana and Jerry Santos.

Because of you … we can reminisce and reflect on the experiences, relationships and even past versions of ourselves … and continue to serve all of Hawai‘i and beyond our shores.

Please join us on Sunday, December 8 at 7:00 pm for Nā Mele: Celebrating 25 Years of Music, a 90-minute program featuring classic Nā Mele performances, including songs and interviews that have never aired. It will be an all-star concert from the comforts of your home.

PBS Hawai‘i is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization, supported by the gifts of individuals, families, businesses and charitable foundations. We humbly ask you to join us for this special presentation of Nā Mele, and help us perpetuate the stories and music of our islands.

Mahalo nui for you trust and support,