Mel Murata is carrying on the tradition of helping kids learn to perform on the ukulele. Just don’t call him "teacher."

"We don’t call it teaching," said Murata, director of the Keiki Palaka Band. "I just show them how to do it. It takes me only three seconds to show you how to play a ‘C.’ It takes another 15 to play ‘F.’"

From such simple direction comes music from the countless number of children who have performed with Keiki Palaka over the years. Murata will be bringing the group to perform Friday at Kailua Elementary School as part of the school’s "Hot Honu Nights" fund raising program .

"We are the only band that plays live Hawaiian music performed by children," said Murata, who is cafeteria manager at Kailua Elementary.

Murata learned from the great slack-key guitarist and kumu hula "Auntie" Alice Namakelua and formed the band 14 years ago in tribute to her. "I think the key to her philosophy was to let the kids realize the importance of entertaining," Murata said.

He runs two other ukulele groups, whimsically named Chicken Katsu and Beef Stew, that serve as a training ground for Keiki Palaka. Youngsters who work with him have given concerts only three weeks after picking up the ukulele for the first time.

Kailua Elementary’s "Hot Honu Nights" is from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday and includes dinner and door prizes. Also appearing will be Keanu, Melelani, the Nickie Hines Band and Manawa Elua. Tickets are $8 and must be bought in advance. Call 266-7884 or 256-2276.