Why do Hawaiian Instruments Sound Good Together?

The Quintessential Hawaiian Band instrumentation consists of:

• Hawaiian Steel Guitar

• 'Ukulele

• Acoustic Guitar

• Upright Bass

The picture above shows the normal range each instrument plays in.  As you can see, there is little overlap.  Where there is overlap, the instruments contrast in timbre.  Each instrument by design makes space for one another both in Timbre and Octave Range. 

In this way, the instrumentation of a Hawaiian band naturally "mix" themselves EQ-wise.  The Timbres and Ranges complement and contrast with each other at the same time, much like a delicious well-prepared meal.

Going from Bottom to Top:

• The role of the Double Bass is to provide LOW END energy to the Hawaiian sound.  Its home is the low end of the piano.  Large by nature, the Doubl Bass, has a very long scale length which lends to its unique timbre.  Its large body adds volume and punch for naturally loud low notes.  

• The role of the Acoustic Guitar is to play chords in a rhythmic fashion providing the stylistic swing feel of the Hawaiian sound.  The Acoustic Guitar's bottom range begins at the mid to high range of the bass.  Pitch range overlap is avoided while contrasting timbres complement one another.

• The 'Ukulele's unique role is to provide the stylistic rhythmic sound immediately evocative of Hawaiian music.  The normal range of the 'Ukulele sits at the high end of the Acoustic Guitar's range.  Not only does this minimize range overlap, but it also provides a pleasing and contrasting timbre with its short scale length and nylon strings as opposed to the acoustic guitar's long scale length and steel strings.

• The Hawaiian Steel Guitar is the cherry on top of the Hawaiian sound.  A truly Hawaiian instrument that was discovered and created by Hawaiians, the role of the Hawaiian Steel is to sit atop the band, sprinkling complementary chords and melodies, either playing the lead melody or filling in the spaces in between the lyrics of the singer.  

Ready to experience this sound live? Book Pu’uloa for your next event and let the islands come to you!

kokua@puuloaband.com