READY TO TAKE YOUR MUSIC TO THE NEXT LEVEL?

Presented by Anaina Hou Community Park, the Henry Kapono Foundation (HKF) is coming to Kaua‘i to present inspiring workshops dedicated to empowering Kaua‘i’s musicians from inspiration to stage for FREE!

Whether you're just getting started or ready to take the next step, come spend the day learning, connecting and making music with Hawaiʻi's artists and music community.

A special one-day Master Class created for Kauaʻi's music community. Connect with some of Hawaiʻi's most accomplished artists and industry professionals, gain practical tools to help build your music career, discover the Henry Kapono Foundation's On The Rise program, and end the day making music together.

Space is limited. Registration required. Return to Home in the Islands

Sign Up Here for the HITI Kauai Song to Stage Workshop Today!

Agenda

October 8, 2025 10 - 3pm

9:30 - 10:00am Registration Check-In & Networking

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10:00 – 10:15 AM | Welcome

Coming Together for Kauaʻi's Music Community

Henry Kapono, President & Founder, Henry Kapono Foundation + Ben, Executive Director, Anaina Hou Community Park

Two nonprofits, one shared commitment: supporting Kauaʻi's music community. Henry and Ben welcome artists and share the vision behind bringing Home in the Islands to Kauaʻi—creating new opportunities, connections and platforms for local music and musicians.

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10:15 – 10:30 AM | What is On The Rise & How Can HKF Help Accelerate Your Career?

Alx Kawakami + Kalaʻe & Kalena Parish

Discover how On The Rise connects Hawaiʻi's emerging artists with mentorship, education, performance opportunities, industry relationships and resources designed to help move their careers forward.

10:30 – 11:00 AM | The Art of the Business

Lezlee Kaʻaihue | Executive Director, Henry Kapono Foundation

Talent is only part of the equation. Learn the essentials of communication, professionalism, booking, relationships and knowing your value—and how to turn opportunity into a sustainable music career.

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11:00 – 11:15 PM | Break

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11:15 – 12:00 PM | Your Brand: On Stage + Online

Kalaʻe & Kalena Parish

Who are you as an artist—and does the world see it? Explore branding, social media, marketing and stage presence, and learn how to build an authentic artist identity that gets noticed and remembered.

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12:00PM – 12:45 PM | Lunch + Talk Story

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12:45 – 1:30 PM | Inside the Creative Process

Henry Kapono + Alx Kawakami + Brother Noland + Kalaʻe & Kalena Parish

Step inside the creative world of award-winning artists and discover how great songs come to life - from finding your voice and telling your story to collaboration, inspiration and the creative process.

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1:30 – 2:00 PM | Artist Talk Story + Open Q&A

Kalaʻe & Kalena Parish

Real artists. Real careers. Real talk. Hear the lessons, challenges and experiences behind successful music careers—and bring your questions!

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2:00 – 3:00 PM | OPEN MIC JAM SESSION

Bring your instrument. Bring your voice. Jump in! Wrap up the day making music alongside our guest artists and Kauaʻi's music community.

Come to learn. Come to connect. Come ready to play.

FAQ

  • This event is open to Kauai residents, 18 years and older who are professional musicians interested in learning about the creative process through business insight of a professional career in Hawai‘i’s music industry. All levels of professional experience are welcome.

  • The HKF defines a “professional musician” as someone who is reasonably compensated for their musical performances. They may perform individually or with other musicians, play instruments, and/or sing.

    The Song to Stage workshop requires attendees to have current professional experience, performing on stage and in front of a live audience.

  • Admission is FREE, thanks to the support of Anaina Hou Community Park & the Henry Kapono Foundation. Space is Limited so dont delay!

  • Yes, space is limited, and advance registration is required.

  • Open to all workshop attendees. Each participant performs one song (original or cover) for a chance to be seen by their peers and music industry professionals.

    Contestants will receive more information & details prior to the event. Those interested can sign up for the competition during check-in from 8-8:30 am for one of the slots. Sign-up will be on a first-come, first-served basis. Please indicate your interest on the submission form.

    Performances must be family friendly, devoid of any profanity or adult content.

    All performers must be self-accompanied (playing their own instrument). Please bring your instrument with you, as pre-recorded music cannot be accommodated.

    The top 3 performers will win a slot to perform as an opening act in the Henry & Friends Concert on Nov 15.

  • Absolutely. The day is designed to connect artists, mentors, and industry professionals.

  • You’ll learn directly from award-winning Hawai‘i artists and industry leaders, including Henry Kapono, Brother Noland, Kalaʻe & Kalena Parish, Kimié Miner, Tavana, Alx Kawakami, and Shelby Carlos.

  • Yes! Light refreshments will be available throughout the day.

  • Yes, free parking is available at Anaina Hou Community Park.

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