It all began in the seventh grade, in Kalihi Valley, Honolulu. For Lawrence Shiroma, the introduction to music began with the brassy tone of a trombone, courtesy of his band teacher Ray Okimoto. This initial spark, however, would soon lead to a lifelong passion for a different instrument. “I picked up the guitar in high school, learning folk songs like ‘500 Miles’ and Beatles songs,” Lawrence recalls.

His style today is a unique fusion of classical fingerpicking and traditional flat-picking, a testament to his diverse musical background. The song “The Wayward Wind” holds a special place in his heart, a reflection of a personal journey that echoes its title. “I guess I always felt a desire to travel, especially being raised on an island,” he shares.

That desire took him far from home, joining the U.S. Army and serving in Vietnam. His path then led him to social work and eventually, to a new life in San Francisco where he found faith and met his wife, Vickie. Together, they embarked on a 36-year career as officers in The Salvation Army before retiring in Colorado Springs in 2015.

Performing is a deeply personal experience. His goal is simple but profound: to be genuine. “I heard one listener saying to me that I come across as someone genuine,” Lawrence says with a smile. “I love to see folks dancing when I am doing a number, and enjoying the moment.” Some of his most moving performances take place in memory care units, where his music bridges the gap between past and present. “I love performing in memory care units and to see folks recognize the tunes that I play and bring back memories long past,” he says.

His career has been filled with memorable moments. A recent performance at the Backyard Market in Black Forest stands out, where a father and his young daughter began dancing to his rendition of “I Love To Go A Dancin’ With You.”

The song, about a father reminiscing about dancing with his daughter on his shoes, created a heartfelt connection. He was also deeply moved when he performed the same song for its writer, George Ray Russell, who, despite having Parkinson’s disease, came up to shake his hand after the performance.

In retirement, he’s found his sweet spot as a solo musician, balancing teaching and gigging. “The biggest challenge I’ve faced as a solo musician and guitar teacher is balancing my teaching schedule with my gigs,” Lawrence admits.

But he has embraced the challenge, grateful for the opportunity to share his love of music, whether on stage or in the classroom, with students both young and old. From the streets of Manitou Springs to a retirement filled with melody, his journey is a beautiful testament to the power of a song to connect and inspire.

See his performance at Black Rose Acoustic Society in Black Forest at: youtu.be/BH5Ari6NqFc.