The community is invited to Mele For Maui, a free summer concert on Saturday, Sept. 19, at the Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows. Fondly considered “The People’s Place,” the concert celebrates and commemorates the legacy and resilience of Lahaina, Kīhei, Kula and the vibrant spirit of Maui.
In its 15th season, the Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra (HSO) returns to Maui for the concert. Recently designated the official state orchestra of Hawaiʻi, this is the first time the orchestra will perform on Maui in 10 years.
“The arts have a unique way of bringing people together across generations and backgrounds,” Mayor Richard Bissen said in a news release. “I’m grateful to everyone who made this free event, Mele for Maui, possible so that residents and visitors alike can experience the Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra and celebrate the richness and resilience for our island community.”
Led by Dane Lam, HSO’s music and artistic director, the orchestra will present an evening of live music inspired by Mauiʻs natural landscapes and people. The concert series also brings together the Islands’ award-winning artists, including Amy Hānaialiʻi Gilliom, Raiatea Helm, Keola Beamer, John Cruz, Jeff Peterson, Kalaʻe Camarillo and others. Attendees will also be treated to music by composer Michael-Thomas Foumai and the world premiere of “Rain Shadow” by composer Sean Hickey.
“After all that Maui has overcome, it’s fitting Lahaina is the location for HSO’s return to interisland touring—making sure that everyone in Hawaiʻi has access to world-class, transformative music-making of HSO,” Lam said in a news release.
Celebrating the vibrancy of Maui through music, the special event will be livestreamed on Hawaiʻi News Now’s digital platforms and televised on K5.
The event will take place at Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows. Guests can also enjoy a local mākeke (market) at The Branches, featuring local products.
The Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows has become a gathering place in West Maui. The resort invites local musicians to perform at The Branches, an intimate outdoor music venue. Resort guests and local residents are invited to experience a beautiful evening of live music underneath the branches of a century-old banyan tree.
Kelly Sanders, Group President of Highgate Hawaiʻi, said “When you bring the community together with the intention of honor, reflection and celebration—paired with the transformative mele of the Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra, something very special happens, and I believe we will experience that on Sept. 19. It will be a night to remember.”
What to Know About Mele for Maui:
- All ages are welcome.
- Admission is free and open to the public.
- Seating is first-come, first-served.
- Overflow parking will be available at designated lots within the Kā‘anapali Resort area, with a complimentary event shuttle to the event.
- The complimentary Kā‘anapali Trolley will also stop at the Royal Lahaina Resort entrance.
- No pets, fireworks, tents, canopies or umbrellas.
- No outside food or beverages; water is permitted.
- Low lawn chairs and blankets are welcome.
Schedule of Events for Mele For Maui
- 4 p.m. – Gates Open with food trucks and the market available.
- 6:30-9 p.m. – Mele for Maui Concert from 6:30-9 p.m.
- 9 – 10 p.m. – Post Concert Fellowship at The Branches
- 10 p.m. – Celebration concludes
For more information about Mele For Maui, visit the website here. For more information about Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows, visit the website here.
