A little bit of Elvis and a whole generation of GIs ignited the worldwide fascination with Hawaii back in the mid-twentieth century, soundtracked by the sometimes corny-sounding ukulele. In more recent years—as the loss of native customs, flora, and fauna forever alter the islands—the echoes of a more authentic Hawaii have crossed the Pacific through the bittersweet sounds of slack-key guitar. Keola Beamer is one of the most masterful and emotionally charged practitioners of the instrument, and his music, along with his wife Moana’s traditional dancing, make up a program of Christmas music tinged by the salt-breeze languor of the tropics. 416 Cedar Ave S., Minneapolis; 612-338-2674; www.thecedar.org
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