“Pākaʻa the Winner” by Caren Loebel-Fried
A free, bilingual study guide featuring artwork by noted Hawaiʻi Island artist, Caren Loebel-Fried is now available for educators interested in teaching the story of “Pākaʻa Lanakila!” the original composition by UH West Oʻahu Assistant Professor of Music Jon Magnussen performed by Chamber Music Hawaii’s Spring Wind Quintet. The Hawaiian and English language teacher resource guide features an in-depth description of “Pākaʻa Lanakila!” and includes suggested classroom activities and crossword puzzles, as well as photos and background on “Pākaʻa Lanakila!” musical instruments.
“Pākaʻa Lanakila!” is written in the manner of Prokofiev’s “Peter and The Wolf” and based on the traditional Hawaiian story of Pākaʻa, a boy living on Kauaʻi in the cliffs of Keahiahi near present day Kealia. Pākaʻa is a smart boy and a quick learner. But sometimes his mother and uncle underestimate what he can do. By the end of this fishing adventure, Pākaʻa wins the respect of the poʻe lawaiʻa (fishing people) and all those on shore.
For more information, visit www.facebook.com/thepakaaproject. The free “Pākaʻa Lanakila!” resource guide for teachers is available at http://chambermusichawaii.org/pakaa-lanakila.
Related articles:
Hawaiian language performance of Dr. Jon Magnussen’s ‘Pākaʻa Lanakila’ on Kauaʻi, April 14
Dr. Jon Magnussen’s music featured on new CD based on traditional Hawaiian coming-of-age story