Kailua Elks Jazz Up Summer Fun

Summer Fun programs on the Windward side got a taste of jazz this summer, courtesy of Kailua Elks Lodge #2230, which sponsored three recent keiki clinics from Kahuku to Kailua.

According to member Tom Kemp, the lodge applied for and won two Elks National Foundation grants to run the clinics, featuring local jazz greats, in an effort to instill music appreciation that’s lacking in the school curriculum.

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A curious student closely watches the finger work of keyboardist Dan Del Negro. Photos by Nathalie Walker, nwalker@midweek.com.

Led by professional jazz singer and recording artist Dana Land, the entertainer/educators included Dan Del Negro on piano and keyboards, John Kolivas on bass, Rockford “Rocky” Holmes on saxophone and reeds, and Von Baron and Bonnie B on drums. Their mission was to play kid-friendly jazz – from blues to bebop, demonstrate their instruments and let the children try their hand at singing, snapping, scatting, dancing, conducting and just plain drumming away.

Clinics were held at city summer fun programs at Kahuku High School gym, Aikahi Community Park and Kailua Elementary School.