One-year certificate in Hawaiian music

Within the Hawaiian worldview, balance is critical. It contributes to our joy, and understanding of our kuleana. As pō is always connected to ao, and lani to honua, mele is connected to hula.

Deepen your understanding of the balance between Hawaiian music and hula, and learn how to tap into the oral histories that are contained in our mele and oli. You will then be able to share the joy of music within your ‘ohana and others for generations to come.

Certificate Description

The Ka‘ohekani cohort is an immersive, accelerated experience. This one-year academic subject certificate in Hawaiian music will give participants a deeper understanding of the connection and balance between Hawaiian music and hula. The series of 8-week online classes are taught by Kumu Kamuela Kimokeo (music) and Kumu Kawaikapuokalani Frank Hewett (Hawaiian language, hula).

  • Fully online Academic Subject Certificate in Hawaiian Music
  • 8-week online cohort (together as a group)
  • Certificate also applies to the AA degree in liberal arts

Attend an Information Session

Join us for an information session to discover more about Kaʻohekani, the Hawaiian music certificate, and get your questions answered about:

  • Applying to Windward Community College
  • Registering for courses
  • Online learning technology and how we support your journey

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Tuition

Native Hawaiians living in the continental U.S. and Hawai‘i residents both pay the same community college in-state resident tuition*. Total cost for the Ka‘ohekani Hawaiian Music Certificate is approximately $3,285 (resident and/or Native Hawaiian tuition).

For a breakdown of costs, see Tuition & Fees.

*Non-residents may be allowed to pay resident tuition if they qualify for one of the UH Board of Regents tuition exemptions.

Tuition Assistance

The Kanile‘a ‘Ukulele Hawaiian Music Scholarship is available to students who have completed 12 credits towards the Hawaiian Music certificate at Windward Community College. Learn more about this scholarship and how to apply. Funding is limited.

What does Ka‘ohekani mean?

Ka‘ohekani translates to “the sounding bamboo.” In Hawaiian society, many musical instruments were made from ‘ohe (bamboo). These instruments often symbolize beginning, commitment, spirit, and connection to land and culture. The ‘ohe is also a kino lau of Kāne and thus we connect this cohort to Kāne‘ohe and Windward Community College.

Ka‘ohekani cohort courses

Each semester is mapped out for you here, where students will study together and move through the courses as a cohort.

    For questions about the certificate, contact

    Kamuela Kimokeo
    Director of Music
    808-236-9131
    kamuelam@hawaii.edu

    For questions about application and registration, contact

    Ha‘aheo Pagan
    Counselor
    808-235-7460
    paganj@hawaii.edu