HAWAIIAN GUITARS Meaning and
Definition
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Hawaiian guitars refer to a category of stringed musical instruments that originated in Hawaii and are traditionally played by sliding a metal bar or slide along the strings. This term encompasses various types of guitars, both acoustic and electric, which produce distinctive sounds similar to a steel or slide guitar. Often featured in Hawaiian folk music and other genres, they are known for their unique, sweet, and resonant tones.
The design of Hawaiian guitars typically consists of a hollow body with a raised nut, raised strings, and high action which accommodates the use of the slide. The strings are usually made of steel, providing a bright and clear sound when plucked or slid. Some models also feature a built-in pickup, allowing for amplification in electric versions.
Hawaiian guitars are played by laying the slide or metal bar lightly across the strings and gliding it smoothly along the frets. This technique, known as slide or steel guitar playing, enables the musician to create smooth and sustain-rich notes. The captivating sound of the Hawaiian guitar is often associated with the island's cultural heritage and has contributed to its popularity worldwide.
Over time, Hawaiian guitars have been adapted into various styles and genres, including country, blues, and jazz music. They are also prevalent in contemporary Hawaiian music and often incorporated into slack key guitar playing, a traditional Hawaiian fingerstyle genre. With their distinct sound and rich history, Hawaiian guitars continue to charm both musicians and listeners around the globe.
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Etymology of HAWAIIAN GUITARS
The term "Hawaiian guitar" refers to a style of playing the guitar known as "steel guitar", which originated in Hawaii in the late 19th century. However, the etymology of the term itself does not have a direct connection to the Hawaiian Islands.
The early steel guitars used in Hawaii were modified with steel bars or slides to create a distinctive sliding sound. The name "Hawaiian guitar" was likely given to this style of playing due to its association with Hawaiian music and the popularity of the technique in Hawaii during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
It is worth noting that in the Hawaiian language, the word for a guitar is "kīkā kila", which literally translates to "steel guitar". Despite the linguistic connection, the term "Hawaiian guitar" is primarily used in English to describe the playing style rather than the instrument itself.
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