On the weekends, we would sometimes spend the day at Hāpuna beach, away from the ranch in Kamuela, where I spent much of my boyhood. The sea birds at Hāpuna Beach always fascinated me. With my shoulders browned by the sun and feet anchored in the hot sand, I longed for their freedom, their boundless spirit as they skimmed above the waves.
Manu Kai is played solo on the steel string guitar in taro patch tuning. I use my trademark “hammer-on” and “pull-off” ornaments.
Manu Kai means “sea bird” and like a sea bird, this piece dances on the wind. It has a nice tempo and is both fun and challenging to play. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!
After you have finished this piece, go on to Kanaka Waiwai.
Keola Beamer

Lesson Resources

Tuning: Taro Patch or G Major Tuning (DGDGBD)


These resources are for members of kbeamer.com. Learn more and join now!