Hawaiian Traditional Instruments:

kâ`eke `eke : made of bamboo pipes or tubes of varying lengths, this instrument is played by holding it vertically and tapping it on the ground or a mat kuolokani- large ancient timbrel drum.


nî `au kan : a harp made of thin wood  nîau (coconut midrib). 



`ohe hano ihu : a nose-flute made of bamboo that was played to accompany chants, but more popularity for romantic serenades. 




pahu : this large drum is the most important in the performance of the hula. The base of most of these drums are made from either a hollowed out coconut or breadfruit tree, and the head of the drum out of shark skin. 

pahu pa`i : also a shark skin drum used during the performance of the hula.



papa hehi : a foot-board that is danced on.



pû : the shell of a large triton conch or helmet shell that is used as a ceremonial trumpet. It's loud sound has been know to reach over two miles and is produced in the manner in which it is blown, not by the breath itself. Ancient Hawaiians used the pû to announce the arrival of someone on the islands, and now it is used to mark the opening of pageants, ceremonies, and performances.



pûni : a small knee drum made of coconut shell and fish skin. 



`ûkêkê : a bow with two or three strings threaded through holes at one end. 



Steel guitar : the steel guitar is also known as the lapsteel, because it is held on the lap while palyed with a steel bar. Along with Hawaiian music, the steel guitar is also used in blue, "hillbilly", country and western music, rock and pop, and the music of Africa and India. 





Slack key guitar : named for its slacked or loosened strings, which creates an open chord, the slack key guitar accompanies Hawaiian chants and rhythms.