da Shop: Keiki Workshop and Read Aloud with Benjamin Fairfield

Come join us in person for an exciting da Shop hands-on workshop with local educator and ethnomusicologist Benjamin Fairfield, author of Kani Ka ʻŌpala: How Can Garbage Sing? Attendees will learn to build a "Squawkie-talkie" — a homemade instrument that can sing like a chicken, talk like a robot, and purr like a bobcat — all from household materials. Fairfield will also showcase rubbish instruments from his recent Capitol Modern exhibit, part of the inaugural 2025 Hawaiʻi Climate Artist in Action Residency.

This event is geared for ages 5 and up, but all are welcome! Don't miss out on the chance to make your own instrument, see Benjamin's creations up close, and join a participatory kani ka pila / ʻopala sing-along to close out the workshop. All materials provided, no musical experience necessary!

Preview the instrument here:

About the book:

A story and hands-on exploration of music made from rubbish!

An interactive book for teaching keiki about the importance of reusing, recycling, and taking care of our island home, Kani ka ʻŌpala tells the story of a father and daughter who turn trash into musical instruments—and shows you how to do it too!

Scan the QR codes inside the book to listen to music played on the author’s homemade instruments.

About the author:

Benjamin Fairfield, PhD, is a teacher, musician, artist, and parent. To see more of his projects, including music albums and video tutorials for the instruments featured in this book, visit www.kanikaopala.com.

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