In 2009, Chantel Ikehara won the 29^th KZOO karaoke competition and now has the chance to compete in the "26th Annual NAK (Nippon Amateur Kayo Sai) Grand Prix Taikai" in Tokyo, Japan in May of this year. Only 15 years old, she will be among the youngest to compete in this prestigious amateur competition. Chantel, a member of Urizun Minyo Group, is a multitalented vocalist who also studies the guitar and keyboard.

Those who have heard Chantel perform know that she is extraordinarily talented. Please help us support this extraordinary youngster.

In the spirit of Yuimaru, communities helping one another, Live Yuimaru is hosting a benefit concert to help Chantel on her journey. Saturday, April 3, 2010 at Jikoen Hongwanji from 10 am to 2 pm. Tickets are $25 (cost includes entertainment, bento and water).  For ticket information, please email: pigsfromthesea@gmail.com

We are raising funds to send Chantel on her first visit to Okinawa, where she can explore her roots and heritage. After costs, the monies raised will cover airfare, accommodations, transportation, omiyage and other costs. NOTE: Everyone has waived their fees and are volunteering their time to help Chantel out. :).

In Okinawa, she will have the opportunity to take further her studies and take lessons from Minyo Sanshin Grand master Akira Wakugawa sensei. Wakugawa sensei will take her to the different song locations and explain the origin of those songs.

In addition to helping fund Chantel’s first trip to Okinawa, we also want to express our love and support for Chantel, which she can take with her as she travels to Japan for the competition.

Wayne Takamine ( Solo Guitar artist)
Shinden Karate ( Sensei Charles Morita/ Frances Nakachi )
Lee Tonouchi ( Premiering his poetry on Okinawan Identity )
Shishi Mai ( Jon Itomura, Eric Nitta )
Hawaii Taiko Kai ( Terry Higa Sensei and Students)
Urizun Minyo Group ( Sensei Derek Ichiro Shiroma )
Tamagusuku Ryu Senjukai Hawaii (Sensei Frances Nakachi Kuba )
Hawaii Eisa Chimugukuru Daiko ( Instructor Van Shimabukuro)
Chantel Ikehara & Ohana ( Janel Ikehara, Jane Higa )

There will also be a bake sale and a raffle!