After the Lahaina fire that threatened lives and homes in August 2023, the Lahainaluna High School music program faced adversity with a resilient spirit. The tight-knit community, along with support from KHS America and other sources, played a crucial role in healing for young fire survivors.
The Lahainaluna band program lost nearly 20 instruments in the August fires. Despite the school remaining intact and students surviving, some had brought their instruments home and had to leave them behind as they fled for their lives. KHS America stepped in to donate 17 new instruments, including Jupiter flutes, clarinets, trumpets, saxophones, and more.
The moment Lahainaluna students opened the crate containing the new instruments, they were exploding with excitement and joy, according to their band director, Jalen Baraoidan.
KHS America was also able to collaborate with Music Rising to contribute Lanikai ukuleles and H. Jimenez guitars, along with Hercules and NOMAD stands to support the Maui Music Mission's efforts to provide music lessons to children affected by the fires. Maui Music Mission hosted a thrilling Skate Jam event for impacted families in West Maui, where the students were very excited to receive their new instruments.
Additionally, Hohner Kids percussion instruments were distributed to pre-kindergarten students affected by the fires for Christmas through Mana Mentors, further enriching their holiday season.
Tabor Stamper, President Emeritus of KHS America, acknowledges that while the donated instruments can't erase the impact of the fires, they provide students with an opportunity to focus on making music and finding solace in their passion. "It's incredibly important to preserve involvement in music for these students," Stamper notes. "For so many, it's the highlight of their day. We are grateful to be able to support the efforts of educators in changing lives through music, and allow music making to continue for these students in Maui."
