In the wake of the devastating wildfires that swept through the Hawaiian island of Maui, prominent musicians, artists, and media figures have come together to organize Maui Ola: a charitable concert aimed at aiding Maui's recovery.

Led by Australia's Dane Lam, the Music Director of the Hawai’i Symphony Orchestra, the ensemble performed on Sunday, August 20th, with the primary goal of raising essential funds for the affected individuals. As of now, the Maui fires have tragically claimed the lives of 111 people, while hundreds more remain missing.

Dane Lam remarked, "The intensity and heartlessness of the Maui wildfires' aftermath have deeply shaken the local community. Hawai’i boasts a close-knit society, and this spirit of unity and compassion extends throughout the islands. Although I am a recent resident of Hawai’i, I have observed the potent influence of 'aloha' (which signifies more than just a greeting) uniting people from all corners of the islands to support their fellow residents, their Maui brothers and sisters."

Maui Ola brought together a collection of Hawai’i's leading musical talents, including Kolohe Kai, Hawaiian Style Band, Pure Heart, Jerry Santos, Raiatea Helm, Paula Fuga, Kimie Miner, Anuhea, and Del Beazley. Lam expressed his satisfaction that the Hawai’i Symphony Orchestra, one of the oldest orchestras in the United States, could partake in "singing, mele (song), and paying homage to the people of Maui, acknowledging their losses, and offering strength for the reconstruction efforts."

Every member of the orchestra and production team volunteered their time, ensuring that the entirety of the concert's proceeds would be directed towards supporting Maui.

Lam explained, "In the face of such devastation and loss of life, one often feels helpless. Undoubtedly, the people of Maui are in dire need of practical assistance right now, such as food, shelter, and financial aid. However, music and the arts play a crucial role in reconnecting us to our communities. When we join our voices in song, standing united in our endeavor to bring solace and optimism to those who have endured immense suffering, we find empowerment. Music, with its inherent inclination for creativity and collaboration, offers a poignant counterbalance to these acts of indiscriminate destruction."