Orange Coast College Celebrates Island Cultures with Ukulele Workshop

News Summary

On May 7, 2025, Orange Coast College hosted a cultural ukulele workshop aimed at celebrating the traditions of Polynesian, Micronesian, and Melanesian cultures. Led by Victor Thompson, participants not only learned to play music but also enjoyed traditional culinary offerings. The event emphasized cultural appreciation and community connection, showcasing the power of music as a tool for understanding diverse backgrounds.

Orange, California – Orange Coast College Hosts Cultural Ukulele Workshop Featuring Traditional Island Music

On May 7, 2025, Orange Coast College (OCC) hosted a cultural ukulele workshop at Watson Hall, celebrating the rich traditions of Polynesian, Micronesian, and Melanesian cultures. Organized by OCC’s Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) team, the event aimed to foster cultural appreciation and community connection through music.

Participants in the workshop were provided with their own ukuleles to play during the session, guided by accomplished ukulele teacher Victor Thompson. The workshop was not just about music; it included a culinary element, with food offerings such as Spam musubi and fruit jelly cups, allowing attendees to enjoy a taste of island culture while engaging in musical learning.

Victor Thompson began the workshop with an insightful overview of several islands from the three cultural regions, setting the stage for a deeper understanding of the music they were about to learn. Participants were taught to play “Coconut Woman,” a song made famous by Harry Belafonte, who is recognized for his Jamaican heritage, thereby bridging diverse cultural backgrounds through music. Additionally, attendees enjoyed a performance of “Lava,” a popular song by James Ford Murphy, which is especially beloved among children.

Thompson’s deep passion for cultural learning and appreciation was a key theme throughout the workshop. He shared personal experiences that underscore his motivation for teaching. One significant influence was his past friend, Uncle Henry Kamae, a ukulele musician who inspired Thompson to spread the joy of music and culture. Thompson expressed a strong desire for increased knowledge and understanding of AANHPI cultures, highlighting the importance of such events in building community bonds.

Among the participants was OCC student Christel Nakayama, who expressed her enthusiasm for the workshop, influenced by her father’s love for the ukulele and her own years of hula dancing. Nakayama’s participation represents how cultural experiences can be passed down through generations, connecting individuals to their heritage and fostering a sense of identity.

The ukulele workshop at Orange Coast College illustrated the power of music as a tool for cultural education and appreciation. By combining instruction with authentic cultural experiences—such as traditional foods and thematic songs—the event provided participants with a meaningful introduction to the diverse cultures of the Pacific Islands. In closing, Victor Thompson emphasized that cultural appreciation not only enriches individual experiences but also strengthens community ties, creating opportunities for connection and collaboration across varied backgrounds.

The success of this workshop reinforces the value of educational events that embrace and celebrate diversity, ensuring that the vibrant traditions of Polynesian, Micronesian, and Melanesian cultures continue to be shared and appreciated by future generations.

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Additional Resources

• Los Angeles Times: Tony Cappa Retires from Ukulele Club
• Wikipedia: Ukulele
• Orange County Register: Annette Marie Doyle Obituary
• Google Search: Ukulele Workshops
• Orange County Register: Mickie Reinertson Obituary
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Polynesian Music
• LAist: Best Things to Do in Southern California
• Google News: Orange Coast College