CEO MESSAGE

In 1983, Kamehameha Schools’ Performing Arts teacher Holoua Stender recognized gems in a crowd of talented students. They were three young women – Nalani Jenkins, Lehua Kalima and Angela Morales – all blessed with beautiful voices individually, but together, with a sound that was magical.  He coined the trio’s name, Nā Leo Pilimehana, which means “the voices blending in warmth.”

A year later, the high school friends won the Brown Bags to Stardom contest with their original song “Local Boys,” and the rest, as they say, is history.  Four decades later, the women are still sharing their gift of music and captivating audiences around the world with their signature warm and melodic sound.

Their harmonious voices recently filled the air in Waikīkī at Halekulani’s House Without a Key in a memorable night of song, dance and storytelling.  The sunset concert was a celebration of Nā Leo Pilimehana’s highly-decorated career and the 25th anniversary of PBS Hawai‘i’s iconic Hawaiian music program, Nā Mele.

As they say in their song, “Strolling on the Beach at Waikīkī,” we invite you to smell the breeze and enjoy the hula melodies with our special presentation of Nā Leo Pilimehana at Halekulani’s House Without A Key, Sunday, June 9 at 7:00 pm on PBS Hawai‘i and livestreaming on PBS Hawai‘i’s YouTube page.

The program, which will include a few surprise guests and a special host, is part of our yearlong pa‘ina, celebrating a quarter-century of PBS Hawai‘i’s commitment to highlighting Hawai’i’s musical traditions and artistic excellence. 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 our viewers like you.

So please join us on Sunday, June 9 from the comfort of your living room, on your laptop or smartphone or wherever you may be as three lifelong friends take us down memory lane and add another chapter to Nā Mele’s rich story.

With gratitude and appreciation,

Ron Mizutani and the entire PBS Hawai‘i family