Episode 3: The ʻŪkēkē

November 1, 2024

The ʻŪkēkē (with Mahi La Pierre)

A revival of an ancient Hawaiian instrument

📍 Honolulu, Hawai'i

Great resources: https://papahanakuaola.org/ukeke/

Thoughts and Reflections

I need to reiterate how grateful I am to Mahi! Out of all of the episodes I've filmed, this was the most unique journey and experience I've been on. Mahi put very care in sharing about his instrument with thoughtful structure and meaningful experiences.

I was going on vacation with my parents to Hawaii, and wanted to use this opportunity to find some instrument makers. Finding ukulele makers in Hawaii was no issues at all. Though, in my quest for traditional instruments, I did quite alot of research on indigineous instruments of Polynesia and Hawaii. I found a nose flute maker, but never got responses from the email. I finally found Mahi La Pierre, the only person really doing this research and promotion on the ʻŪkēkē. He was also not easy to get a hold of. But after I did, he was more than welcoming to invite me to experience this instruments.

Although at this point, this was going to be my 4th interview filmed and I was personally easing into my role, I was extremely nervous because it was going to be my first interview in fleunt English, allowing me to have some deeper discourse. However, over the course of the 3 hours together, I had some of the delicious 'awa that Mahi prepared. This is a traditional root drink, that has some brain-loopy effects, that is used as a social stimulant and a relaxer. As my brain numbed, I felt at ease and relaxed in this chair in the beautiful outdoor area in the fish reserve.