The conch shell in Hawaii is used by skilled practitioners for a variety of purposes, some are not shared with those outside of the natives to that culture. However, most events and ceremonies officially start with the blowing of the shell. We watched a trio and two dancers from the University of Hawaii one night in Waikiki. The presentation began with this man, who has been doing this for years, creating a loud, pure note that he did more than one time and in more than one direction. All of those details matter but it was done with little explanation. What was clear was how skilled this man was and how respected for his gift.
