Want to experience the true soul of Hawaiian music? Then learn to play Kī Hōʻalu, also known as Hawaiian slack key guitar. This fingerstyle technique is more than just playing guitar; it’s a way of telling stories, sharing culture, and feeling the aloha spirit. While in Hawaii, skip the tourist traps for a day and dive into this beautiful art form. This article will show you how!
What is Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar?
Kī Hōʻalu (pronounced “kee ho-ah-loo”) literally means “loosen the key.” Back in the 19th century, when guitars were first introduced to Hawaii by cowboys (paniolo), Hawaiians started experimenting. They loosened the strings of the guitar, creating unique tunings that resonated with their own musical sensibilities. The result? A beautiful, expressive sound unique to the islands. It’s characterized by its use of open tunings, allowing the guitarist to play chords using a single finger, creating a flowing, almost harp-like sound. These altered tunings are what gives the music its characteristic sound. Unlike standard guitar tuning, slack key guitar relies heavily on open tunings, where strumming the open strings creates a chord. Common tunings include Taro Patch (G-major), Wahine (C-major), and Maverick (D-major). Each tuning lends itself to different moods and styles, giving your playing a unique flavor.
Why Learn Slack Key While in Hawaii?
Learning slack key in Hawaii isn’t just a lesson; it’s an immersion. Imagine learning from a kumu (teacher) surrounded by the sounds of the ocean and the scent of plumeria. It’s a completely different experience than learning online or in a classroom back home. You’ll connect with the music on a deeper level and understand its cultural significance. You are learning from cultural practitioners while supporting the local community. This is also a great way to connect with the local culture, far from Luaus, and is generally more authentic.
Finding Slack Key Lessons in Hawaii
Several options exist depending on your budget, location, and learning style. Here’s a breakdown:
Private Lessons
Perhaps the most personalized option, private lessons offer one-on-one instruction tailored to your skill level and goals. Prices can range from $60-$150 per hour, depending on the teacher’s experience and location. A good starting point is to search for ‘slack key guitar lessons ‘ on Google or Yelp and read reviews carefully. Don’t hesitate to ask potential teachers about their background and experience. For example, on Oahu, you might find experienced instructors by searching for Oahu slack key guitar lessons, and you may find some through referrals at local music stores.
Group Workshops
These are a more affordable option, often priced between $40-$80 per session. Group workshops offer a collaborative learning environment where you can interact with other students. Many community centers and music schools offer workshops periodically. Check local event listings, especially around Hawaiian music festivals. Look at the Parks and Recs department in the island you have selected for your vacations. Often these are advertised in the island’s local newspaper too.
Online Resources
If you are on a tight budget, or simply want to get a feel for the instrument, there are lots of online resource available to you. Youtube is a good place to start, but be sure to check the teacher’s credentials. Beware that online lessons are a great start but they can be difficult to actually get good at.
Slack Key Festivals and Retreats
For the truly dedicated or for those who want to mix a vacation on the island with their love for Hawaiian music, slack key retreats and festivals exist. They are more intense and more expensive, but you are also going to be 100% immeresed in the Slack Key Guitar. These retreats include: intensive workshops, jam sessions, and performances by renowned slack key masters. Expect a substantial investment, but the experience can be life-changing.
What to expect from a Slack Key Lesson
Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience with guitar, most lessons will start with an introduction to the basics of slack key technique. This includes learning about open tunings, chord shapes, and fingerpicking patterns. The instructor will likely demonstrate these concepts and then guide you through exercises to help you develop your skills. You’ll also learn about the cultural context of the music and the stories behind the songs. You might even learn a simple song or two! For instance, you might start with a song like “Kaua‘i Beauty”, a popular choice for beginners because of its relatively simple chord progressions. Even if you don’t become a master guitarist in a single lesson, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Hawaiian music and culture.
Choosing the Right Teacher is Critical
Look for someone with experience, patience, and a passion for sharing their knowledge. Ask about their teaching style and whether they can adapt to your learning pace. A good teacher will not only teach you the technical aspects of playing but also the cultural significance of the music. Some questions to ask:
- “How long have you been playing slack key?”
- “What is your teaching experience?”
- “Do you focus on any specific tunings or styles?”
- “Can you tailor lessons to my skill level?”
Essential Gear for Learning Slack Key
Fortunately, you don’t need a ton of fancy equipment to get started with slack key guitar. Here’s what you’ll need:
A Guitar
Acoustic guitars with nylon strings are the most common, but steel-string guitars can also be used. The type of wood used in the guitar can affect the sound. Mahogany guitars, for example, tend to have a warm, mellow tone, while spruce guitars have a brighter, more resonant sound. While in Hawaii, try renting different guitars. Most music stores can help you with renting and provide information
A Tuner
Essential for accurately tuning your guitar to different slack key tunings. Electronic tuners, especially chromatic tuners, are the easiest to use. You can find them at most music stores for around $20-$50. There are even apps, but a physical tuning is easier.
Picks (Optional)
Some slack key players use fingerpicks, but it’s more common to play with your bare fingers. Experiment to see what feels most comfortable for you.
A Footstool
This is not mandatory but a foot stool can improve your posture while playing. Look for models that adjust to different heights to ensure maximum comfort during practice sessions.
A Songbook or Online Resources
Having access to sheet music or tablature can be helpful, especially when learning new songs. Many websites and books offer slack key arrangements. Check out resources like the slack key guitar festival site, which sometimes has lessons or recommendations.
Diving Deeper: Understanding Slack Key Tunings
The heart of slack key lies in its unique tunings. Learning a few of the most common tunings will open up a world of musical possibilities.
Taro Patch (G Major)
This is arguably the most popular tuning and is often the first one beginners learn. The guitar is tuned to D-G-D-G-B-D. It’s bright and cheerful.
Wahine (C Major)
A beautiful and versatile tuning often used for love songs and ballads with the guitar tuned to C-G-D-G-B-D. It has a sweet and serene sound.
Mauna Loa (Open D)
This dramatic and soulful tuning is used for bluesy and melancholic pieces, where the guitar is tuned to D-A-D-F#-A-D.
Exploring Beyond the Basics
Once you’ve mastered a few basic tunings, you can start experimenting with more advanced techniques. This might include learning more complex fingerpicking patterns, incorporating harmonics, or exploring different rhythmic variations. It also helps in your progression if you get to know the history of great Hawaiian guitarists like Gabby Pahinui.
Practice Tips for Budding Slack Key Guitarists
Like any musical instrument, mastering slack key guitar takes time and dedication. Here are some tips to help you on your journey:
Start Slow
Don’t try to learn everything at once. Break down songs into smaller sections and focus on mastering each section before moving on.
Listen Actively
Immerse yourself in slack key music. Listen to recordings, watch live performances, and try to identify the different tunings and techniques being used.
Practice Regularly
Even short, consistent practice sessions are more effective than long, infrequent ones. Aim for at least 15-30 minutes of practice each day. If you are actively trying to get better, then practicing in small sessions is key, so that your fingers have the time to build resistance again. The most important is to listen, and feel when your muscles on your fingers start to hurt or become sore.
Record Yourself
This is a great way to identify areas where you can improve. Listen back to your recordings and pay attention to your timing, tone, and accuracy.
Be Patient
Learning an instrument takes time and effort. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. Just keep practicing and you’ll eventually get there.
Beyond the Lesson: Immersing Yourself in Hawaiian Culture
Learning slack key is more than just learning to play an instrument; it’s about connecting with Hawaiian culture. Here are some ways to deepen your understanding and appreciation.
Attend a Slack Key Concert
There’s nothing quite like experiencing slack key music live. Check local event listings for concerts and festivals featuring renowned slack key artists. For example, The Slack Key Guitar Festival is an annual event featuring some of the best slack key players from across Hawaii. Many resorts and hotels also host Hawaiian music performances.
Visit a Cultural Center
The Polynesian Cultural Center (if you are on Oahu) offers a variety of cultural demonstrations and performances, including Hawaiian music and dance. It can be expensive, so ensure that you can maximize the value based on the price.
Learn About Hawaiian History
Understanding the history and culture of Hawaii will give you a deeper appreciation for the music. Visit museums, read books and articles, and talk to local people to learn more. Visit the Bishop Museum on Oahu, which houses an extensive collection of Hawaiian artifacts and exhibits on Hawaiian history and culture.
Support Local Artists
Buy CDs, attend concerts, and take lessons from local musicians. By supporting local artists, you’re helping to keep Hawaiian culture alive. You can find unique, handcrafted instruments and accessories at local craft fairs and markets. Check online resources for upcoming events.
Real-World Example: A Day of Slack Key Immersion on Maui
Imagine this: You wake up early on Maui and head to a local music store in Wailuku. You strike up a conversation with the owner, who is also a slack key player, and he recommends a local kumu who offers private lessons. You spend the morning learning the basics of Taro Patch tuning and practicing simple fingerpicking patterns. After lunch, you visit a local farmer’s market where a slack key musician is playing. You listen intently, soaking in the music and chatting with the musician about his experiences. In the evening, you attend a concert featuring a renowned slack key artist at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center. You leave feeling inspired and energized, with a newfound appreciation for Hawaiian music and culture. Cost will be around $100, but the feeling? Priceless.
Troubleshooting Common Challenges
Even with the best instruction, you might encounter some challenges along the way. Here’s how to overcome them:
Finger Pain
This is common, especially when you’re first starting out. Take breaks when your fingers start to hurt and gradually build up your calluses. You can find finger exercisers online or at music stores to help strengthen your fingers. Soak your fingers in warm water after playing to relieve soreness.
Tuning Difficulties
Make sure you have a reliable tuner and that you’re using the correct tuning for the song you’re trying to play. Double-check your tuning before each practice session. A bad tuning will make you lose interest really fast. Consider investing in a clip-on tuner, as they are easier to use in noisy environments. If you are still facing difficulties consider hiring a local professional to help you tune your guitars, so that you know the correct sound and pitch on that guitar.
Frustration
Learning an instrument can be frustrating at times. Don’t get discouraged. Just keep practicing and focus on making small improvements each day. Set realistic goals for yourself and celebrate your accomplishments along the way. Seek out online communities or forums where you can connect with other slack key players for encouragement and support.
FAQ Section
Here are some frequently asked questions about learning slack key guitar:
Is it hard to learn slack key guitar?
Like any musical instrument, learning slack key guitar takes time, patience, and dedication. However, with consistent practice and good instruction, anyone can learn to play. Some tunings might be more challenging than others, but starting with the basics and gradually progressing to more complex techniques will make the process more manageable. In general, it is going to take around 6 months for beginners. It is going to take a couple of years to be considered skilled.
Do I need to know how to play guitar before learning slack key?
While having some prior guitar experience can be helpful, it’s not essential. Many slack key teachers are used to teaching beginners who have never played an instrument before. If you’re a complete beginner, be sure to find a teacher who is patient and willing to start with the basics.
What’s the best tuning to start with?
Most teachers recommend starting with Taro Patch tuning (G Major) as it’s relatively easy to learn and is used in many popular slack key songs. The chords are relatively simple but gives plenty of options for progression.
Can I learn slack key online?
Yes, there are many online resources available for learning slack key. However, in-person lessons with a qualified teacher are generally more effective, especially for beginners. Online resources can be a great supplement to in-person instruction.
What kind of guitar should I use?
Acoustic guitars with nylon strings are the most common, but steel-string guitars can also be used. The type of guitar you choose will depend on your personal preference and budget. If you’re just starting out, a budget-friendly acoustic guitar with nylon strings is a good option.
Are there Slack Key festivals in Hawaii?
Yes! The most well-known one is the Slack Key Guitar Festival, held annually. It’s a fantastic opportunity to see some of the best players in the world! A great reference is always Hawaii Magazine because they consistently publish their calendar, and include several local festivals that may not be known.
References
- Tatar, Elizabeth (Ed.). (1979). Hawaiian Music and Musicians: An Illustrated History. University of Hawaii Press.
- McLean, M. (1999). Slack Key Guitar: An Introduction. Journal of the Polynesian Society, 108(2), 197-204.
- Buzaglo, K. Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Tunings. Cord Publications.
Ready to add a truly unique dimension to your Hawaiian vacation? Skip the overcrowded beaches for an afternoon and dive into the soulful world of slack key guitar. Learning to play this beautiful music is not just a skill; it’s a cultural experience that will enrich your trip and create lasting memories. Imagine yourself strumming a familiar tune under a Banyan tree, feeling the aloha spirit with every note. Book your slack key lesson today and discover the heart of Hawaiian music!
