Mark Kailana Nelson

Mark Kailana Nelson is a gifted multi-instrumentalist known for his versatility in traditional music settings. He has a deep connection to various folk and vintage instruments, particularly the Hawaiian slack key guitar, ukulele, and Appalachian dulcimer. Mark's music often transports listeners to tranquil, exotic landscapes, blending styles from the South Pacific, the Irish Sea, and Alta California. His career began at a young age, and he was one of the first non-Hawaiian musicians to master the slack key guitar style. Aunty Nona Beamer, a respected figure in Hawaiian music, gave him the name "Kailana" and encouraged him to teach this style.

Mark has had a distinguished career, winning the National Mountain Dulcimer Championships in 1979, which led to performances across North America and Europe. He is an engaging performer who weaves stories and humor into his music, having shared stages with notable artists like Grover Washington, Jr., Keola Beamer, and Doc Watson. Mark is also an in-demand instructor and author of best-selling books on music for Mel Bay Publications. His recent releases include titles like *It Sounds so Sweet: Jug Band Music for Ukulele* and *Ke Kukima Polinahe: Hawaiian & Polynesian Music for Appalachian Dulcimer*. When not touring, Mark resides in Southern Oregon with his wife, Annie Dempsey, and maintains a small recording studio.

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