#Richard Ho‘opi‘i Leo Kiʻekiʻe Falsetto Contest

Festivals of Aloha is now accepting contestant applications for two of Hawai‘i’s premier celebrations of Hawaiian falsetto singing, inviting talented vocalists from across the islands and beyond to honor one of Hawai‘i’s most treasured musical traditions.

Koakāne Mattos of Makawao captured the top honor at the 23rd annual Richard Ho‘opi‘i Leo Kiʻekiʻe Falsetto Contest over the weekend with his heartfelt rendition of the Hawaiian classic “Kalamaula.”

Maui’s own Antonio Robles of Wailuku, earned the championship title at the 22nd annual Richard Ho‘opi‘i Leo Kiʻekiʻe Falsetto Contest, held at the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua on Saturday night, Sept. 21, 2024. He was honored for his performance of Hawaiʻi standard “Waikaloa.” The competition featured six contestants–four from Maui, and two from O’ahu.

Liam Moleta of Oʻahu earned this year’s title for his performance of “Aloha Nō Kahului.” Also competing were Tevita Lisiate Apina-Pacheco from Waiʻanae, O‘ahu, Antonio Robles of Wailuku, Maui, and Via Tiumalu Jr from Kīhei, Maui.