HAWAIIAN GUITAR Meaning and
Definition
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The Hawaiian guitar, also known as the lap steel guitar, is a musical instrument characterized by its unique playing technique and distinctive sound. Originating in the late 19th century in Hawaii, the Hawaiian guitar has become closely associated with Hawaiian music and has gained popularity worldwide.
The instrument consists of a hollow, metal-bodied guitar that is laid flat on the musician's lap or held horizontally on a stand. It is played by sliding a metal or glass bar, called a slide or tone bar, over the strings rather than pressing them against the frets. This technique creates a smooth gliding sound, reminiscent of the Hawaiian steel guitar's signature style.
The strings of the Hawaiian guitar are generally made of steel, often with a high-gauge. The instrument is typically tuned to an open chord, allowing the musician to create chords and melodies by simply moving the slide along the strings. The use of fingerpicks is common to enhance the projection and clarity of the sound.
The Hawaiian guitar has been widely utilized in various genres of music, including Hawaiian, country, blues, and Western swing. It became particularly popular in the early 20th century with the rise of Hawaiian music recordings and performances. Today, the Hawaiian guitar continues to captivate audiences with its unique and evocative sound, showcasing the rich musical heritage of Hawaii and its cultural influences.
Common Misspellings for HAWAIIAN GUITAR
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Etymology of HAWAIIAN GUITAR
The term "Hawaiian guitar" refers to a specific style of guitar playing that emerged in Hawaii in the late 19th century. However, the origins of the word are not directly related to the geography of Hawaii.
The etymology of the term "Hawaiian guitar" can be traced back to its association with a particular technique called "slack-key guitar". Slack-key guitar, also known as ki hoʻalu in Hawaiian, is a unique playing style characterized by the loosening or "slacking" of specific guitar strings to create different open tunings. This technique allows for the characteristic crisp, resonant, and sliding sounds associated with Hawaiian music.
In the late 19th century, steel guitarists from Hawaii started gaining popularity in the continental United States. These musicians often performed with a guitar that had raised strings over a metal bridge, which enhanced the sliding and smooth effects created by the slack key technique.
