The name ukulele comes from the Hawaiian words "uku (flea)" and "lele (jump)." The ukulele was brought to Hawaii by Portuguese immigrants in the late 1800s.Īccording to Hawaiian history, the small guitars were given the name ukulele after watching how quickly the Portuguese musicians skipped their fingers across the strings. One of the most widely known Hawaiian instruments is not a native Hawaiian instrument at all. Many factors determine the sound quality of the Kâ`eke `eke bamboo tubes, including the length, diameter, thickness, environmental conditions, and age. Throughout Hawaiian history, the Kâ`eke `eke has been used to tell stories through mele. The skill and focus required to create the beat using the Kâ`eke `eke, dance to the rhythm, and chant simultaneously are unmatched. Hula Kâ`eke `eke dancers typically have two Kâ`eke `eke of different lengths. The length of the bamboo tube determines if the dancer is standing or sitting while playing. It is played by smacking it against a mat or the ground. The Hawaiian idiophone is made of a bamboo tube with all but the bottom internal node removed, measuring between. However, since the instrument is quiet enough to maintain discretion but strong enough to be heard through walls or grass houses, it is also popular with those having illicit affairs. It is widely used in love-making between married couples. The instrument strings are strummed while the musician quietly chants a private love song into the mouthpiece, allowing those in love to have private conversations in public places. The Ukeke is primarily used between lovers.
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Koa wood is native to Hawaii and is greatly revered and considered sacred throughout Hawaiian history. The ukeke, not to be confused with the ukulele, is a mouth bow instrument constructed from a thin piece of bent Koa wood and two to three strings. The only string instrument indigenous to Hawaii is also the most widely distributed Oceanic string instrument. Modern pahu covers are made from cowhide. The top portion of the drum is covered in sharkskin that has been stretched using rope for a tight seal. The Pahu has a tapered wooden body typically made of coconut tree stumps or other native wood and a masterfully carved base. It was also named the official traditional instrument of the state of Hawaii. With the literal translation of "Hula Drum," it is easy to see why this is the most crucial instrument accompanying the hula dance.
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The Hawaiian word Pahu translates to "drum" in English. Thus, traditional Hawaiian musical instruments, in addition to modified instruments from visitors throughout Hawaiian history, play an essential role in Hawaiian culture. With mele being central to preserving Hawaiian history, musical devices are equally instrumental in developing and maintaining this art form. Mele Hula is known for using musical instruments and their rhythms that guide the dancers. Poems and songs were specifically written to be performed alongside dancers. Typically performed by one individual who chants without any musical instruments.
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Mele is broken up into two distinct categories for chanting and dance music. It is a multi-functioning term that refers to poetic expression, chants, and songs. Mele is the closest word the Hawaiian language has to music.