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How to Hire the Right Hawaiian Musician on Kauaʻi (Complete Guide)

December 05, 20252 min read

How to Hire the Right Hawaiian Musician on Kauaʻi (Complete Guide)

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Looking to hire a musician for your event on Kauaʻi? Whether you're planning a wedding, birthday, celebration of life, or blessing, choosing the right Hawaiian musician matters. This guide walks you through everything to consider before booking.


1. Know What Style of Hawaiian Music You Want

Traditional? Contemporary? Slack key? Instrumental only?
If you want traditional Hawaiian mele only, make sure the musician specializes in that.


2. Decide the Event Time (Daytime vs. Evening)

Most musicians prefer evenings.
If you want daytime, your musician should specifically offer daytime slots—this is your niche advantage.


3. Understand Pricing on Kauaʻi

An "average-regular-solo" musicians typically range from:

  • $200–$300/hr for daytime

  • $350–$600+ for evenings/weekends

Premium holidays cost more.


4. Consider the Setting

Ask if your musician can accommodate:

  • Beach locations

  • Outdoor gardens

  • Hotel lanais

  • Homes or rentals

Check if they bring their own sound system (amplifier or speaker).


5. Ask About Song Options

If you want only traditional Hawaiian music, select someone who has a strong mele repertoire—wedding songs, classics, old standards, and foundational Hawaiian chants if needed.


6. Look for Experience, Not Flashiness

A good Hawaiian musician does not need flashy staging.
Instead, look for:

  • Cultural knowledge

  • Clean vocals

  • Consistent rhythm

  • Ability to create atmosphere


7. Confirm Travel Areas and Fees

Kauaʻi musicians often charge differently for:

  • East side

  • North shore

  • South shore

  • West side


8. Book Early for Popular Seasons

Spring, summer, and winter holidays fill quickly.
Daytime musicians are especially in demand for weddings and vow renewals.


Conclusion

Hiring the right Hawaiian musician creates an unforgettable atmosphere for your Kauaʻi event. If you want a musician specializing only in traditional Hawaiian songs, available primarily for weekday daytime bookings, I’d be honored to be part of your special moment.

Book your Hawaiian music here: https://www.kauaihawaiianmusic.com

Kainoa Keanaaina was raised playing traditional Hawaiian music. He learned from his Papa who was his best friend, and later learned with other teachers. Keanaaina is also knowledgable in Hawaiian culture, hula, and lomilomi

Kainoa Keanaaina

Kainoa Keanaaina was raised playing traditional Hawaiian music. He learned from his Papa who was his best friend, and later learned with other teachers. Keanaaina is also knowledgable in Hawaiian culture, hula, and lomilomi

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