HONOLULU (KHON2) -- It has been a week of fantastic music at the Waikīkī Steel Guitar Week.
It's happening from July 8-13, at the Royal Hawaiian Center's Royal Grove stage!
This event celebrates Hawaiian music and the unique sound of the Hawaiian steel guitar.
Exciting performances all week long
From Monday to Thursday, audiences enjoyed evening concerts featuring talented Hawaiian steel guitar artists.
Performers included Alan Akaka and The Islanders, Pōmaika‘i & Mālie and the NextGen steel guitarists like Isaac, Enosa, Tai, Makamae and Isabella.
Each night promises a different musical experience, with performances starting at 6 p.m.
Japan-Hawaiian Steel Guitar Festival
On Friday, July 12, the 3rd Annual Japan-Hawaiian Steel Guitar Festival will take place from 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
This special event features amazing steel guitarists from Japan, such as Shinichi Kakiuchi, Yukio Katagiri, Kiyoshi "Lion" Kobayashi and many more.
It’s a fantastic blend of cultures and musical styles!
Saturday’s Ho‘olaule‘a
The excitement continues on Saturday with the Waikīkī Steel Guitar Festival’s ho‘olaule‘a performances.
There are two segments: the first from 11a.m. to 2:20 p.m. and the second from 4p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
This split schedule helps guests enjoy the music without facing the hottest part of the day. Look forward to a variety of Hawaiian steel guitar artists and bands.
Meet the hosts
Monte McComber was the emcee for the Monday-Thursday concerts.
Meanwhile, Masami Sato and Shuji Tomita will host the Japan-Hawaiian Steel Guitar Festival.
Saturday’s festival will be hosted by Monte McComber and Kimo Kahoano.
Don’t miss the beautiful hula performances by Kapuanani, adding an extra layer of Hawaiian culture to the events.
Free and accessible
This wonderful week of music has been free to the public, thanks to the Royal Hawaiian Center and the Hawaiʻi Institute for Music Enrichment and Learning Experiences (HIMELE™).
Can’t make it in person? No worries! Both Friday’s and Saturday’s events will be livestreamed on Facebook and YouTube.
Just check out the Hawaiian Steel Guitar Showcase Facebook Page or YouTube Channel. For more information, click here.
Waikīkī Steel Guitar Week is not just a celebration of music but a vibrant display of cultural heritage and community spirit. Mark your calendars and join the fun!