We remember Joseph Camacho as the tall, slim boy who played percussion instruments in Kaimuki High School’s band. Who would guess that music would play a major role in his life or that he would inspire so many with his music? His peers respect him as a master in his passions as an entertainer, composer of liturgical (religious) music and teacher.
After graduation, Joe attended the University of Hawai‘i - Mānoa. In 1971, Joe’s halau was the first winner of the newly introduced Merrie Monarch Festival. This was a life-changing event because it presented Joe with the opportunity for a far greater education in music and culture. He left Hawai‘i and toured Japan with his halau, working for five years as an entertainer. He also traveled and entertained audiences throughout Asia and Iran.
When Joe returned to Hawai‘i in 1976, he finished his schooling at UH and Chaminade University, earning a bachelor’s degree and specializing in the Montessori method of teaching. He became the director and head teacher at Hale o Kamali‘i Montessori Preschool in Keaukaha on the Big Island. He was also the musical/choral director of Malia Puka o Kalani Catholic Church. Joe was one of the founders of the Big Island Liturgy and Arts Conference that attracted musicians belonging to the Roman Catholic Church from all over the globe.
Joe continued to share his music with audiences throughout the continental U.S., Australia, Mexico, Samoa, Tahiti, New Zealand, the Marshall Islands and 14 European countries.
Joe officially retired in 2003, but has continued his music and teaching activities. He composes liturgical music based on biblical scripture to foster and develop a community based on Christian values. Joe is an artist-in-residence at Hale Lokahi, a retreat center in Volcano. In addition, he’s involved with Halau Hula O Kahikilaulani as part of its musical support. For the past 15 years, he has taught high-school and college students at an annual conference at St. Katherine’s Women’s College in Minnesota. Joe also serves as a teacher and resource person in music and cultural conferences all over Hawai‘i.
Joe’s music has been captured on many liturgical music CDs. To be inspired by one of Joe’s most moving compositions, go to: http://www.mondoymusic.com/MM_Choir/chr_ahahimeni11.htm and click on “Malama Pono.”
