Kiaha Wins 2008 Falsetto Title

Kamakani Kiaha celebrates top honors with falsetto legend Richard Ho`opi`i.

Submitted by Manuwai Peters.

Eighteen year old Ho'olehua resident Kamakani Kiaha was the first place winner at the 2008 Richard Ho'opi'i Leo Ki'eki'e Contest on Friday, September 12 at the Maui Arts and Culural Center. The event, now in its 7th year is a part of the new Festival Aloha Maui Nui Style! celebrations. 

Kamakani competed with nine other contestants for the coveted title that comes with a recording contract with Hula Records.  His winning number, Puna Ku'u Aloha, was written by Katherine Maunakea and made famous by the late falsetto legend Dennis Pavao.

Kamakani is the child of Ada and Kirk Kiaha of Mo'omomi Avenue, Ho'olehua and is a 2007 graduate of Molokai High School.  Contestants in the competition must be male and at least 18 years old by the time of the competition.  Kamakani will be performing at Festivals of Aloha Molokai Ho'olehua on Saturday, October 4 at Mitchell Pau'ole Center.