Where To Find Authentic Hawaiian Instruments: A guide to Purchasing Authentic Hula Instruments

Finding authentic, high-quality hula instruments can be challenging, especially for those purchasing them for the first time. With so many options available online, how can you tell the difference between a quality instrument designed for hula performances and one made primarily as a fun souvenir?

While many retailers sell Hawaiian hula instruments, not all are made with the same level of craftsmanship or intended for actual performances. Choosing the wrong instrument can affect its sound, durability, and overall performance.

In this guide, we'll explain what to look for when buying hula instruments, how to recognize quality craftsmanship, and what to consider before making a purchase. We'll focus on three of the most commonly used instruments in hula: ʻuliʻuli, pūʻili, and ipu, although many other traditional Hawaiian instruments are used in hula.

One important factor to consider is price. While a higher price doesn't always guarantee better quality, unusually inexpensive hula instruments may be made with lower-quality materials or intended primarily for decorative use. Rather than choosing based on price alone, it's important to consider the instrument's materials, construction, durability, and suitability for hula performances.

Where Are the Hula Instruments Made?

One of the first things to consider when purchasing authentic hula instruments is where and how they are manufactured.

Many traditional Hawaiian hula instruments are still made in Hawaiʻi, while others are produced overseas in places such as Bali and the Philippines. Overseas manufacturing has become increasingly common due to production costs and the availability of certain raw materials that may be difficult to source locally.

Some Hawaiʻi-based businesses work directly with overseas manufacturers to source materials or produce instruments according to their specifications. This is a normal part of today's hula instrument industry and doesn't necessarily mean the instruments are lower quality.

However, it's important to distinguish between performance-quality hula instruments and decorative souvenirs. Some inexpensive, mass-produced instruments sold in tourist shops are designed primarily as keepsakes rather than for regular hula practice or performances.

Instead of judging an instrument solely by its country of origin, look for retailers that specialize in Hawaiian hula supplies and can provide information about the instrument's materials, construction, and intended use.

Materials Used in Hula Instruments

The materials used to make traditional Hawaiian hula instruments play an important role in their sound, feel, and durability. Many hula instruments today are still made using the same basic natural materials that have been used for generations, although some components have evolved over time.

Modern improvements may include synthetic feathers, different types of beads, stronger binding materials, and protective finishes. These changes are often intended to improve durability, extend the instrument's lifespan, or make maintenance easier without significantly affecting its performance.

One thing to watch out for is hula instruments made primarily from plastic or other synthetic materials. While synthetic materials aren't necessarily bad, they can produce a different sound and feel compared to traditional natural materials. For example, an ipu made from a natural gourd typically has different acoustic qualities than one manufactured from plastic.

When shopping for quality hula instruments, pay attention to the primary materials used in their construction. Instruments made with appropriate materials and solid craftsmanship are generally better suited for regular hula practice and performances than those designed primarily for decoration.

Buying Hula Instruments Online

Finding authentic Hawaiian hula instruments at a physical store can be challenging, even in Hawaiʻi. With relatively few specialty retailers available, many hula dancers and hālau choose to purchase their instruments online for convenience and a wider selection.

However, buying hula instruments online requires some extra consideration. Marketplaces such as Amazon and eBay offer a mixture of performance-quality instruments and inexpensive decorative souvenirs. Since it can be difficult to distinguish between the two from product photos alone, it's important to research the seller before making a purchase.

At Ka Makani, we source our hula instruments from trusted manufacturers that specialize in producing quality instruments for hula practice and performances. We also inspect our instruments for visible defects before shipping to help ensure customers receive products that meet our quality standards. Although we no longer have a physical storefront where customers can examine instruments in person, we offer a 30-day return policy for added peace of mind.

We also offer a selection of Hawaiian hula instruments through our Aloha Outlet Amazon Store, where customers can browse available products and compare prices:

Shop the Aloha Outlet Amazon Store

Even if you decide to purchase elsewhere, our listings can serve as a useful price reference. If you come across an instrument being sold for significantly less than comparable products, consider contacting the seller to ask about its materials, construction, and suitability for hula performances.

Ultimately, when purchasing hula instruments online, choosing a knowledgeable retailer that stands behind its products is just as important as finding a competitive price.

Contact Customer Support for Expert Advice

If you're still unsure which hula instrument is right for you, don't hesitate to contact the retailer's customer support team before making a purchase.

Many businesses specializing in Hawaiian hula instruments are small, dedicated retailers with extensive knowledge of the products they carry. They can often provide helpful information about materials, craftsmanship, sound quality, and whether a particular instrument is suitable for hula practice or performances.

Whether you're purchasing your first ʻuliʻuli, pūʻili, or ipu, asking a few questions beforehand can help you make a more informed decision and avoid purchasing an instrument that doesn't meet your needs.

At Ka Makani, we're happy to help answer your questions about hula instruments and assist you in finding the right option.

Feel free to contact our team at info@kamakani.com for assistance.

Mahalo
Ka Makani Team