Although hula and slack-key guitar are commonly viewed as "true" reflections of Hawaiian culture, the history behind both of these traditions is more complex than most people realize. In this lesson, these music traditions provide a window, through which students can explore how the long history of colonialism has affected the lives and music cultures of Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders (NH & PI). Historically, many people have used their music for political purposes–protesting existing structures, people with power, and perceived injustices. In Hawai'i specifically, enduring traditions like hula and slack-key guitar (which mix foreign and indigenous elements) function as recuperative spaces where Native Hawaiians can examine and express their cultural values.

Lesson Paths & Learning Objectives

1. Pacific Islanders and Colonization

   • Identify and explain some key effects of colonialism on the lives and musical cultures of Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders.
   • Explain how the history of hula reflects the history of Hawai’i.
   • 30+ minutes

2. What Is the "Hawai'ian Sound"?

   • Identify and explain the musical and aesthetic characteristics associated with the slack-key guitar tradition in Hawaii.
   • Name key Native Hawaiian concepts that are associated with the slack-key guitar tradition.
   • 25+ minutes

3. Music and Politics in Hawai'i

   • Explain how music can serve political purposes.
   • Explain how Native Hawaiians have used music for political purposes.
   • Within specific guidelines, write a song that serves a political purpose.
   • Explain how their song is similar to and different from other songs studied in this component.
   • 30+ minutes