Aia lā 'o Pele i Hawai'i | Candlelight 2023

Ecco shares a powerful choral portrait of the Hawaiian goddess Pele by Jace Kaholokula Saplan, who currently serves as Director of Choral Activities at Arizona State University. An advocate, artist, and culture bearer for the Native Hawaiian community, Saplan describes the context for Aia lā 'o Pele i Hawai'i:
"Often associated with volcanic activity, Pele is embodied by the lava and phenomena associated with eruptions. Growing up, I would learn countless dances and chants that honor her name, her presence, and her strength. This piece pays tribute to a text often chanted to honor her presence and to the recent volcanic eruption of Kīlauea that destroyed large parts of the eastern side of Hawai’i island in 2018. While the eruption was met with destruction and devastation to the western eye, Hawaiian knowledge leaves room for wonder, awe, regrowth, and regeneration."

We are particularly grateful to Kumu Analū Akao, director of Hālau Hula `O Kupukalau`ie`ie in Berkeley, for visiting Ecco to share the rich cultural context of this piece and to coach us on our lyric Hawaiian diction. Mahalo nui loa!