Celebrating the Ukulele

A. Hawaiian culture is rooted in values like Aloha. The word Aloha could be broken into two parts: Alo, meaning face to face, and Hā, meaning breath. More than just a greeting or expression of love, Aloha is a guiding value that teaches us to honor the generations before us. To care for and protect the land (ʻāina) for those generations yet to come. It is about making choices with respect—considering how our actions impact others. The ʻukulele reflects this spirit of Aloha, bringing people together through music and spreading joy across the world.

A. Hawaiian ʻukulele music is set apart by distinct playing techniques and unique rhythmic sensibilities. While the ʻukulele is often used as an accompaniment instrument in mainstream popular music, in Hawaiian tradition it plays a unique rhythmic and expressive role. One of the most distinctive strumming techniques is the ʻōlapa strum, which emerged through the fusion of ʻukulele and hula. This strum mimics the rhythm of the ʻipu (a traditional gourd drum), supporting the dancer’s movements and grounding the music in Hawaiian storytelling.

In the Hawaiian cultural renaissance of the 1960’s and 70’s, musicians like Peter Moon and Eddie Kamae introduced intricate fingerpicking and iconic strumming that became the hallmarks of ʻukulele playing heard in Hawaiian music. Troy Fernandez helped to bring speed and dynamic solos into vocal songs in the 1990s, while Braddah Iz’s iconic reggae-style strum—especially in Hawai‘i '78—infused the ʻukulele with emotional power and cultural resonance. More recently, Jake Shimabukuro pushed the instrument’s boundaries with virtuosic strumming and complex arrangements, inspiring new generations of players like Kalei Gamiao and Brittni Paiva to explore lyrical, melodic styles, and Taimane to blend theatricality with genre fusion.

A. Koa, a wood traditionally reserved for royalty, was prized for its strength and beauty. When the ‘ukulele was first crafted in Hawai‘i, Koa was one of the finest and best-suited woods available to the first generation of ‘ukulele builders. Its use instantly elevated the instrument’s status, giving it a sense of prestige among those who associated Koa with royalty and craftsmanship. I would say these days however there are many beautiful options other than Koa for a good ‘ukulele. Mango and other invasive species actually make wonderful instruments. Just because it's Koa, it doesn't make it a good 'ukulele.

A. You’ve made a great choice by picking up the ‘ukulele. It’s an approachable instrument that's easy to learn the basics, is portable, and is perfect for sharing music and bringing joy into the lives of others.