Makana
Described as “dazzling” by The New York Times, Hawaiian slack key guitarist Makana is an internationally acclaimed guitarist, singer, composer, and activist who is widely known for lending his musical talent for social change. Makana’s captivating and wide-ranging performance style has led him to share the stage with Jason Mraz and Jack Johnson; open for music legends Sting, Carlos Santana, Elvis Costello, and Common; and perform in venues from Asian and European opera houses to The White House. Slack key, or ki ho’alu, was created by families on the Hawaiian islands as a personal expression of their beautiful surroundings and way of life. The style is characterized by “slacking” the strings to open chords, thus freeing the hands to alter the sound. From this tradition Makana has evolved his own dynamic, high-octane style, dubbed “slack rock:” slack key infused with elements of bluegrass, rock, blues, and raga.
Part of ELLNORA | The Guitar Festival (biennial festival) https://krannertcenter.com/ellnora