Buildings that have stood for over a century, traditions dating back nearly 150 years, the school known as Saint Louis, which sits on the slopes of Kala’epohaku, has a story untold and unbeknownst to the students who walk its halls today. For some, this may be their first year, for others, their last, but no matter how long you have been at Saint Louis, it is nothing compared to the history that stands behind it.

One aspect that is rooted deep in Saint Louis’ history is Hawaiian culture or “Moʻomeheu Hawaiʻi,” and little encapsulates the love for Moʻomeheu Hawaiʻi at Saint Louis more than Hui O Nā ʻŌpio. Started by Kumu John Keola Lake in 1966, students would participate in hula and mele competitions. Clifford Koanui, Class of ’70, reflects on Hui O Nā ʻŌpio, which began as a small music and hula group that brought together students from several sister schools.

Practices were held in Bertram Hall once a week after school. Koanui recalls, “We would cram into Mr. Lake’s classroom to learn Hawaiian songs, just like you’d hear at the Kamehameha Song Contest.” Hui O Nā ʻŌpio would perform in many competitions and performances. Some occurred at the Mid-Pacific Theatre and St. Joseph’s on the Big Island. Performances weren’t just small recitals; Hui O Nā ʻŌpio filled large venues. “That year [March 1971] we even played at McCabe Gym. The musicians were way up on a stage above everyone else—it felt like a big production,” reminisces Koanui.

None of this could have been done without Kumu John Lake; learning under him was described as “social and cultural,” not academic or overly strict and that the focus was on Hawaiian music and dance, not training professionals.

Hui O Nā ʻŌpio was popular not only in Saint Louis School but across the islands of Hawaiʻi. People would come to watch performances and parades that they participated in, as well as to see them achieve 1st place time after time. Although times have changed, Hui O Nā ʻŌpio is still a vital part of the culture here at Saint Louis School that gathers many together to watch their triumphant performances.