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Traditional Hawaiian Music
Traditional Hawaiian music is an art form which has evolved tremendously over the last two hundred years due to a multitude of foreign influences. The earliest form of expression was through chanting, rhythmic speaking to simple melodies. Islanders broke out in song when hymns were introduced by missionaries in the early 1800s. They soon began to compose their own compositions with European string instruments from which islanders would later develop and popularize the slack-key and steel guitar. The Portuguese introduced the ukulele, which quickly became the rage due to its ease of play, portability and widely publicized encouragement from King David Kalakaua who passionately promoted Hawaiian culture. If you're looking for the best ukulele picking around, Troy Fernandez is your man. His "Hawaiian Style Ukulele" is a treasure that is sure to please ukulele purists and newcomers alike. While Troy Fernandez, a Na Hokuhanohano music award winner, is widely known for his island contemporary sound, and his affiliation with Ernie Cruz, Jr. in the immensely popular duo, Ka'au Crater Boys, Fernandez has long been a student of the ukulele. Troy is so skilled with this instrument, he's even opened his own ukulele school on the island of Oahu. If you want to hear the ukulele played the way only a true master can play it, this album is a must. If you're interested in Hawaiian culture, "Chants of the Islands" from Neos Productions is a great place to start. Chanting has long been a way for native Hawaiians to pass down stories, genealogies and traditions from generation to generation. The chants featured on this album are performed by Palani Agosto, a Kumu hulu, or hula instructor, who incorporates well known chants with originals on this compelling and insightful album.
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