Arts and Culture

Kanikapila | Music & Culture with Friends

Combine “Kani” (to sound or resonate) and “pila” (stringed instrument) you get “Kani ka pila.” This literally translates to “resonate the instrument” or “play music.” Always a favorite pass time in Hawaiian culture. The guitar was first introduced in the Hawaiian Islands in the late 1800s by cowboys, hired to teach the Hawaiians to herd cattle. Guitar playing grew in Hawaii and acquired its own unique style.

Some of my fondest memories growing up are of family gatherings, where all the instruments come out and we would laugh and sing into the night.

Every time we kanikapila, we celebrate Hawaii’s unique past and create new, lasting memories. For me, when I pick up the guitar, I can’t think about anything else. It allows me to unplug for a minute.

Every “First Thursday” of the month, we get together for a small kanikapila (Guitar Jam). All skill levels are welcome!

Aloha,

Jake

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