by Abi Braceros | Dec 12, 2022 | Artists 2022
After losing his sight at the age of 11, Justin Kauflin gravitated towards playing jazz piano, despite having a classical background in violin and piano. He received top honors at jazz festivals nationally and began performing professionally by age 15. A protégé of Quincy Jones, Kauflin is the subject of a documentary entitled “Keep On Keepin’ On” that follows jazz legend Clark Terry as he mentors Justin as he prepares to compete in an elite international competition. A composer, producer, educator and Quincy Jones & Yamaha Artist, Kauflin is an instructor at Jazz Maui’s Jazz Camp, one of the organization’s music education programs.
by Abi Braceros | Nov 15, 2022 | Artists 2022
Jeff Hellmer, jazz pianist and educator, has enjoyed a long and vibrant career. Twice named a finalist in the Great American Jazz Piano Competition, he has performed throughout the United States as well as in Europe and the Far East. His recording, Peak Moments, was declared an “exciting addition to the modern jazz piano catalog” by the All Music Guide. He has been a soloist and guest conductor with the Dallas Wind Symphony eight times, in repertoire ranging from Stravinsky to Bill Evans.
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by Abi Braceros | Nov 15, 2022 | Artists 2022
Phil Smith was born in Memphis, Tennessee; the Home of the Blues. That city influenced his career as a musician and lover of jazz and blues for over 40 years. He grew up in Blytheville, Arkansas and started playing the clarinet when he was 8 years old. His older brother Joe was already paling the accordion and with the addition of his younger brothers, Mark and David, they formed the Smith Brothers Combo in their home town. The began to play for talent shows, beauty pageants, services clubs and other functions in the community. His brothers are still active in the Memphis music scene today.
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by Abi Braceros | Sep 26, 2022 | Artists 2022
Singer, songwriter, author and poet, Tanama Colibri is of Dominican and Puerto Rican heritage. Her multi-lingual and experimental style encompasses world, pop, spoken word and soul which she expresses with authenticity and fervor.
by Abi Braceros | Aug 2, 2022 | Artists 2022
Gina Martinelli is a local resident who has been a singer/performer on Maui for almost 30 years. Her vocal range and smooth tones have allowed to work in just about every genre of music from Rock and Blues to Country, even Jazz. Performing in venues such as the Maui Arts and Cultural Center, Hotels and NightClubs, not to mention community benefits like 9-11 Relief Benefit alongside Willie Nelson, Whale Day and American Heart Association benefits.
Gina’s commitment to music and community is something she plans on sharing for many years to come.
by Abi Braceros | Jul 28, 2022 | Artists 2022
Kisa Uradomo graduated from Maui’s King Kekaulike High School and was one of only two musicians from Hawaii ever selected to play in the prestigious National Youth Orchestra of the United States, a program of the educational arm of Carnegie Hall. She studied at the Eastman School of Music and pursues a master’s degree in violin Performance at the University of Michigan.
