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Roy Sakuma honored at ‘Ukulele Festival

The 15th annual 'Ukulele Picnic International 'Ukulele Festival of Hawai'i was held on Saturday at the Kapiolani Park Bandstand. A special presentation was made for 'ukulele musician, promoter, producer and educator Roy Sakuma as an 'Ukulele Hall of Fame 2024 Inductee. Sakuma organized the first 'ukulele festival in Honolulu and has continued the annual tradition for 50 years while teaching thousands of students over the decades.

By Cindy Ellen Russell

July 27, 2024

Hawaii Photos

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Posing for a photo together is Byron Yasui and Jake Shimabukuro.
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Talking story are nine-year-old students and friends Jodi Kaya and Noah Nakanishi.
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Students of Roy Sakuma 'Ukulele Studios wait to go on stage for a group performance at the festival.
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Students from Roy Sakuma 'Ukulele Studios during a group performance.
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Ava Lily Cabuhat, 12, receives an embrace after performing with world famous 'ukulele virtuoso Jake Shimabukuro.
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Ava Lily Cabuhat, 12, performs with world famous 'ukulele virtuoso Jake Shimabukuro. “I’ve never heard of Jake Shimabukuro until I started 'ukulele lessons. But, he is really inspiring and it’s kinda’ crazy that I got to experience that moment with him,” said Cabuhat.
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Proud parents, family members and 'ukulele enthusiasts document students of Roy Sakuma 'Ukulele Studios performing.
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Roy Sakuma speaks on Saturday.
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Roy Sakuma speaks on Saturday.
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Susumu Keto from Hokkaido, Japan, claps on Saturday.
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Playing on Saturday is Benny Chong with Byron Yasui.
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Roy Sakuma and Jake Shimabukuro get their groove on at the bandstand.
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Roy Sakuma and Jake Shimabukuro get their groove on at the bandstand.
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The event featured a bevy of international talent as well as famous local musicians showcasing their love affair with the 'ukulele to an adoring crowd.
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