LIHUE – When asked to compare Robert Cazimero’s music to a well-known artist, Kauai Museum Concert Event Planner Chucky Boy Chock doesn’t miss a beat: Italian operatic tenor Luciano Pavarotti. “You can feel his music,” Chock said about Cazimero, referring
LIHUE – When asked to compare Robert Cazimero’s music to a well-known artist, Kauai Museum Concert Event Planner Chucky Boy Chock doesn’t miss a beat: Italian operatic tenor Luciano Pavarotti.
“You can feel his music,” Chock said about Cazimero, referring to the soulful feeling of their performances.
Cazimero will be performing at the Kauai Museum Sept. 11 in a benefit solo show for educational and cultural programs at the museum. This will be his fourth time making an appearance at the intimate setting in the museum.
“It’s honest, unconditional and healing,” Cazimero said, describing Kauai.
With his brother Roland, Cazimero has performed with the New York Pops to a sold-out crowd at Carnegie Hall and at other venues worldwide, including Wolf Trap, Tokyo and the Hollywood Bowl.
Before he takes the stage, Cazimero, who has a slew of Na Hoku Hanohano Awards, always asks family and ancestors and Gods and Goddesses for their blessings.
“Then I open my mouth and go,” Cazimero said. “I try to draw from the energy and spirits around me. They are always there.”
The 64-year-old singer and piano player shares his gift for, “Talking story,” with all of his audiences, using his authentic style.
“Some Call it Aloha … Don’t Tell,” an album recorded with Roland was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Hawaiian Music Album in 2005. They were also inducted into the Hawaiian Music Hall of Fame in 2006.
Giving an honest Hawaiian experience to his fans, none of Cazimero’s shows is ever complete without hula. The musician was a kumu hula for 39 years and recognizes the impact of dance. He promises to bring two young male dancers with him for the museum show.
“To have a young man dance hula is a privilege,” Cazimero said.
And while he said he is honored to be compared to Pavarotti, the most commercially successful tenor of all time, he remains happy and grateful for the longevity of his career spanning 50 years.
“I have stories to tell,” Cazimero said. “People deserve to be entertained and informed.”
Chock is confident, based on previous performances, that attendees at the museum concert will be drawn into the magic of Cazimero’s performance – with a venue space accommodating 140 guests.
“He captivates,” Chock said. “He’s very articulate and paints a beautiful picture of the song. He loves Kauai and you’ll feel it.”
Ticket prices are $100 per person and include pupus from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. The concert is from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. There will be a no host bar and seating is limited.
Info: www.kauaimuseum.org/kauai-events/upcoming-events or call 245-6931.
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Lisa Ann Capozzi, a features and education reporter can be reached at lcapozzi@thegardenisland.com
