7.1 Polynesian vocal traditions and hula
5 min read•july 30, 2024
Polynesian vocal traditions are a vibrant tapestry of harmonies and rhythms. Multiple vocal parts weave together, creating unique textures with parallel thirds, sixths, and unexpected intervals. These polyphonic styles reflect the rich linguistic diversity of Polynesian cultures.
, a cornerstone of Hawaiian culture, blends dance and music to tell stories and honor traditions. From ancient rituals to modern performances, hula has evolved while maintaining its cultural significance. It continues to be a powerful medium for preserving and sharing Polynesian heritage.
Polynesian Vocal Polyphony
Characteristic Features
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- Multiple vocal parts singing together in harmony with parallel thirds or sixths being the most common polyphonic texture
- Frequent use of major seconds and perfect fourths, intervals relatively uncommon in Western music, contributing to the distinctive sound
- Syncopation and unexpected accents often featured in rhythmic patterns of the vocal parts
- Cross-rhythms between the different vocal lines are common
Language and Vocal Techniques
- Polynesian languages significantly shape the music with elongated vowels and glottal stops impacting rhythmic delivery
- Lyrics frequently use vocables (ha'ina) and nonsense syllables (he, ho)
- Microtonal variations in pitch and slides between notes are an important expressive device giving the singing a unique character
- Call and response is a common structural element with a leader singing a phrase then repeated by a chorus, sometimes harmonizing the response
Performance Contexts
- Group singing is very common, both in informal social settings (family gatherings) as well as highly structured performances (ceremonies)
- Choral singing frequently accompanies dance, especially in hula
- Informal group singing often features improvisation and spontaneous harmonization
- Structured performances involve extensive rehearsal and choreography to coordinate the vocal parts with dance movements
Cultural Significance of Hula
Origins and Traditional Significance
- Hula is a Polynesian dance form that originated in Hawaii, deeply intertwined with Hawaiian history, culture, and storytelling traditions
- Began as a sacred ritual dance to honor the gods (, ) and pay tribute to chiefs
- Essential part of religious ceremonies () and celebrations (birth of a chief)
- Movements and gestures are highly symbolic, used to convey stories, emotions, and themes of the accompanying chants or songs ()
Styles and Evolution
- Two main styles: (ancient style) and (modern style)
- Hula kahiko performed to chants and percussion with dancers wearing traditional costumes (kapa skirts) and adornments (, ankle and wrist rattles)
- Hula 'auana performed to instrumental music, often featuring harmonies and incorporating Western influences (melodic instruments, songs with verses and choruses)
- Suppressed by Christian missionaries in the 19th century who saw it as a heathen practice
- Revived in late 19th century by King David Kalākaua as a way to preserve Hawaiian culture
- Continues to evolve with contemporary influences (pop music, fusion of styles) while still maintaining traditional roots
Contemporary Practice and Significance
- Hula schools () led by master teachers () train dancers in the traditions, passing down knowledge
- Performed at social gatherings (), ceremonies (weddings), competitions (), and as entertainment (live shows, movies)
- Remains a vital part of Hawaiian cultural identity and pride
- Serves to perpetuate Hawaiian language, music, stories, and values
- Has spread beyond Hawaii and is practiced and celebrated by Polynesian diaspora communities worldwide
Instruments and Rhythms in Polynesian Music
Idiophones and Membranophones
- Slit drums or log drums, most widespread Polynesian instrument, made from a hollowed out log with different sizes producing different tones
- Stamping tubes, percussion tubes pounded on the ground, common accompaniment for dance ranging from small to large bamboo sizes
- Idiophones like shakers (), rattles (###ʻili_0###), and scrapers ('), often made from natural materials (gourds, shells), provide rhythmic accompaniment
- Shells and wood can also be struck together as clappers ()
Aerophones
- Conch shell trumpets (pū) blown to announce ceremonies and convey signals with sound production similar to brass instruments
- Nose flutes (), especially in Hawaii and Cook Islands, played with mouth and one nostril producing a soft, airy timbre
- Bamboo trumpets () and bamboo flutes () also used in some traditions
- Gourd whistles (') and reed pipes () are less common but still present in some cultures
Chordophones and Western Influences
- Less common in pre-contact times but now widespread, especially in Hawaiian music
- 'Ukuleles, adapted from Portuguese instruments brought by immigrants, hugely popular in Hawaiian music with different sizes (soprano, concert, tenor, baritone)
- Slack-key guitar (kī hō'alu), open tunings with bass notes played on the lower strings while the melody is played on the higher strings, iconic Hawaiian sound
- Steel guitar, influenced by Hawaiian slack-key, creates distinctive sliding tones and became popular in country and western music
Rhythms and Percussion Styles
- Rhythmic patterns tend to be repetitive and trance-like to accompany long periods of dance
- Polyrhythms, different rhythmic patterns played simultaneously, are common
- Syncopation, accents on the off-beats, frequently used to create rhythmic interest
- Ipu beats, different rhythmic patterns played on gourds, associated with specific dances (hula 'ōni'ō beat for hula 'auana, pahu beat for hula kahiko)
- Strict tempo not always maintained, rhythms ebb and flow with the energy of the dance and chanters
Music in Polynesian Storytelling
Oral Traditions and Transmission
- Prior to colonization and introduction of writing, Polynesian culture was primarily oral with music essential for passing down history, stories, genealogy, and cultural knowledge
- Chants preserve stories of Polynesian origins (Kumulipo chant), migrations (Hōkūle'a), mythology (Pele), and important historical and legendary figures (Kamehameha I)
- Musical elements like rhythm, chant, and vocables function as mnemonic devices to aid memorization of long texts and genealogies
- Vocal traditions are passed down in families and training schools (hālau) where cultural knowledge is carefully guarded
- Aspiring chanters undergo long apprenticeships to master the tradition, learning from elders (kupuna)
Language and Poetic Devices
- Chants often in an elevated, poetic register of language distinct from common speech
- Metaphor, allusion, and archaic words are common, requiring deep cultural knowledge to fully understand
- Repetition of phrases and parallelism used for emphasis and to aid memory
- Vocables (he, ho, ha'ina) and nonsense syllables fill out rhythmic patterns and signal changes
- Chants follow strict rules of composition (kāhea, pule, ho'ōho) governing use of language, themes, and accompaniment
Themes and Cultural Significance
- Chants cover all aspects of life including laments (kanikau), love songs (mele ho'oipoipo), celebration chants (mele hula), taunts (mele inoa), prayers (), and children's songs (mele pule)
- Themes include birth, death, love, war, politics, religion, history, and connection to the land ('āina)
- Music deeply connected to Polynesian conceptions of history and cultural identity, linking present day people to their ancestors and cultural roots
- Place names in chants (wahi pana) immortalize sacred sites and important locations
- Hula chants (mele hula) record stories of gods and heroes that are acted out in dance
- Personal chants (mele inoa) celebrate individuals and their accomplishments, preserving their memory
Key Terms to Review (38)
Aesthetic experience: An aesthetic experience refers to the perception and appreciation of beauty or artistic value in various forms, including music, visual arts, and performance. This type of experience often elicits emotional responses and deep engagement, allowing individuals to connect with art on a personal level. Through aesthetic experiences, people can explore cultural identities, traditions, and values expressed within artistic practices.
Chanting: Chanting is a vocal practice that involves the rhythmic repetition of sounds, words, or phrases, often used in spiritual or ceremonial contexts. This form of expression is essential in many cultural traditions, as it serves to connect participants with their heritage, spirituality, and communal identity. In Polynesian vocal traditions, chanting plays a crucial role in storytelling, history preservation, and rituals that accompany hula performances.
Falsetto: Falsetto is a vocal register that allows singers to produce notes that are higher than their normal singing range by using a different mode of vibration in the vocal cords. This technique is commonly used in various musical traditions, including Polynesian vocal styles, where it adds unique tonal qualities to the performance, especially in conjunction with hula dance. The use of falsetto can convey emotions and enhance the storytelling aspect of the music, making it an integral part of these cultural expressions.
George Naʻope: George Naʻope was a renowned Hawaiian cultural figure, specifically known for his contributions to hula and traditional Hawaiian music. He played a pivotal role in revitalizing and preserving these cultural practices, blending traditional techniques with modern influences, which helped to popularize hula beyond the islands. His dedication to education and performance not only honored the roots of Polynesian vocal traditions but also ensured their continued relevance in contemporary culture.
Haka: Haka is a traditional Māori war dance from New Zealand, characterized by vigorous movements, chanting, and facial expressions. This expressive performance is often associated with Māori culture and serves various purposes, including ritualistic functions, social gatherings, and sporting events, where it symbolizes strength and unity.
Hālau: Hālau is a Hawaiian term that refers to a school or group, especially one dedicated to the teaching and preservation of traditional arts, such as hula. This concept connects deeply with Polynesian vocal traditions and hula, as hālau serve as important centers for learning, community bonding, and cultural expression, where practitioners engage in the study of dance, music, and oral traditions integral to their heritage.
Hula: Hula is a traditional Hawaiian dance form characterized by hip movements, gestures, and chants or songs that convey stories and emotions. This dance is integral to Hawaiian culture, serving as a medium for storytelling, history, and spirituality while preserving the rich vocal traditions of Polynesia through its rhythmic movements and musical accompaniment.
Hula 'auana: Hula 'auana is a contemporary form of hula that emphasizes storytelling through dance and song, incorporating both traditional Hawaiian elements and modern influences. This style of hula is characterized by its fluid movements, often performed to slack-key guitar music or other forms of modern Hawaiian music, showcasing the evolution of Hawaiian culture while still maintaining its roots.
Hula kahiko: Hula kahiko is a traditional form of Hawaiian hula that embodies the rich cultural heritage and history of the Hawaiian Islands. This ancient dance style is characterized by its use of ancient chants (oli) and traditional instruments, reflecting the spiritual and cultural significance of the Hawaiian people. Hula kahiko not only serves as a means of storytelling but also preserves the connection to ancestral traditions and the environment, making it an essential part of Polynesian vocal traditions and hula.
ʻulīʻulī: The ʻulīʻulī is a traditional Hawaiian percussion instrument made from a hollow gourd filled with small seeds or pebbles, used primarily in hula and other Polynesian vocal traditions. This instrument not only serves as a rhythmic accompaniment but also plays a significant role in enhancing the storytelling aspect of hula performances, bringing energy and life to the dance. The sound produced by the ʻulīʻulī adds depth to the music, emphasizing the connection between movement and rhythm in Hawaiian culture.
Ili'ili: Ili'ili refers to the smooth, flat stones used in traditional Hawaiian hula performances. These stones are typically held in each hand and are integral to the rhythm and movement of the dance, often enhancing the visual and auditory aspects of the performance. The use of ili'ili connects deeply to Polynesian culture, as they symbolize the relationship between nature, music, and dance.
Kāla'au: Kāla'au is a traditional Hawaiian musical instrument, specifically a type of wooden staff or club that is used in performance and ceremonial contexts. It serves not only as a percussion instrument but also as a symbol of power and authority within the cultural practices of the Hawaiian people. The kāla'au is often associated with hula and vocal traditions, enhancing the storytelling aspect through rhythm and movement.
Kapu: Kapu refers to a system of sacred laws and prohibitions in Hawaiian culture that regulate behaviors, practices, and access to certain resources or spaces. This concept is deeply tied to the religious beliefs of the Polynesian people and plays a crucial role in social order and the preservation of sacred traditions, especially in vocal traditions and hula performance.
Kuleana: Kuleana is a Hawaiian term that refers to a sense of responsibility, duty, and stewardship towards one's land, community, and culture. It embodies the idea that individuals have an obligation to care for their environment and to pass on cultural traditions. In the context of Polynesian vocal traditions and hula, kuleana reflects the deep connection between performers and their heritage, emphasizing the role of music and dance as not only art forms but also as vital expressions of identity and responsibility.
Kumu hula: A kumu hula is a master teacher of hula, who not only instructs dancers but also embodies the cultural and spiritual knowledge associated with this traditional Hawaiian art form. This role is significant as it connects the past and present, preserving and passing down stories, chants, and movements that reflect Hawaiian history and identity through generations.
Laka: Laka refers to a type of chant or song that is integral to Polynesian vocal traditions and is often performed in conjunction with hula. This term embodies the rich cultural expressions found within these traditions, highlighting the connection between music, dance, and storytelling in Polynesian societies. Laka also serves to enhance the emotional depth of hula performances, as it can convey themes of love, nature, and ancestral reverence.
Lei: A lei is a traditional Hawaiian garland or necklace made from flowers, leaves, shells, or other natural materials, symbolizing affection, love, and hospitality. Often worn during special occasions like graduations, weddings, and luaus, leis hold cultural significance as they are used to greet guests and mark celebrations, creating a strong connection between the giver and the receiver.
Lono: Lono is a significant deity in Hawaiian culture associated with fertility, agriculture, and the rain. Revered as a god of peace and healing, Lono plays an essential role in various cultural practices, especially in connection to hula and Polynesian vocal traditions, reflecting the deep ties between spirituality, nature, and community in Hawaiian life.
Luau: A luau is a traditional Hawaiian feast that features a variety of foods, music, and entertainment, typically accompanied by cultural performances such as hula dancing. Originating from ancient Hawaiian celebrations, luaus were initially exclusive to high-ranking individuals and involved the preparation of foods like pig, fish, and taro. Over time, luaus have become popular events for both locals and tourists, showcasing Polynesian vocal traditions and the art of hula in an engaging and festive atmosphere.
Makahiki festival: The makahiki festival is a traditional Hawaiian celebration that marks a time of peace, rest, and renewal, honoring the god Lono. This annual event usually lasts for four months, from late October to early February, and incorporates various cultural practices such as games, feasting, and ceremonial rituals, fostering community bonding and connection to the land. It is also closely tied to agricultural cycles and is a significant expression of Polynesian vocal traditions and hula.
Mana: Mana is a spiritual force or power that is believed to reside in people, objects, and the environment, deeply rooted in Polynesian culture and spirituality. It represents authority, influence, and the ability to perform actions that can impact the world around oneself, often associated with leadership and success. In the context of Polynesian vocal traditions and hula, mana is considered crucial as it connects performers to their cultural heritage and the divine.
Martha Graham: Martha Graham was an influential American dancer and choreographer, known for revolutionizing modern dance in the 20th century through her innovative techniques and expressive style. Her work emphasized the emotional and psychological aspects of dance, often reflecting themes from literature, history, and mythology. Graham’s choreography often incorporated elements of American culture, which has impacted various forms of performance, including Polynesian vocal traditions and hula.
Mele: Mele refers to a traditional form of Hawaiian chant or song that plays a significant role in Polynesian culture, often serving as a means of storytelling, historical preservation, and expression of cultural identity. This rich vocal tradition is characterized by its poetic lyrics and can be accompanied by hula, enhancing the storytelling through movement and dance.
Merrie Monarch Festival: The Merrie Monarch Festival is an annual week-long celebration held in Hilo, Hawaii, dedicated to Hawaiian culture, particularly hula and music. It honors King David Kalākaua, who was known as the 'Merrie Monarch' for his efforts in revitalizing Hawaiian culture in the late 19th century. This festival showcases traditional hula competitions, crafts, and music, emphasizing the importance of preserving and promoting Polynesian vocal traditions and the art of hula.
Nafa: Nafa is a term that refers to a specific vocal technique utilized in Polynesian music, particularly within hula traditions. This style of singing is characterized by its unique melodic phrasing and rhythmic elements, which are essential to conveying the emotions and stories of the hula dance. The technique emphasizes the connection between voice and movement, creating a rich tapestry of sound that enhances the visual performance.
Ohe hano ihu: Ohe hano ihu refers to a traditional Hawaiian bamboo flute that is used in both vocal traditions and hula performances. This instrument is integral to creating melodic lines that accompany the chants and dances, emphasizing the connection between music, nature, and storytelling within Polynesian culture. The ohe hano ihu not only provides a unique sound but also serves as a cultural symbol representing the harmony of life in Hawaiian society.
Oli: Oli is a traditional Hawaiian chant that is characterized by its melodic vocalization and is often performed solo. This form of expression serves as a way to convey stories, history, and emotions, while playing a significant role in cultural ceremonies and celebrations. Oli not only showcases the vocal traditions of Polynesia but also complements other art forms such as hula, enriching the overall performance experience.
Pahu drum: The pahu drum is a traditional Hawaiian percussion instrument made from a hollowed-out tree trunk and covered with animal skin. It plays a crucial role in Hawaiian music and dance, particularly in hula performances, where it provides rhythmic support and helps convey the emotional depth of the dance through its powerful sound.
Polynesian Fusion: Polynesian fusion is a musical genre that combines traditional Polynesian sounds, instruments, and vocal techniques with contemporary styles and influences from around the world. This blending creates a rich tapestry of sound that reflects the cultural exchanges and innovations within Polynesian communities, often seen in performance arts like hula, where music and movement are deeply interconnected.
Pū: Pū is a traditional Polynesian instrument, typically made from conch shell, that produces a powerful sound often used in ceremonies and rituals. This instrument holds cultural significance, especially in the context of vocal traditions and hula, where it serves as both a musical accompaniment and a call to attention for performers and audiences alike. The deep, resonant tone of the pū creates a unique auditory experience that enhances the storytelling elements of hula performances.
Pu kani: Pu kani refers to the vocal tradition of the Hawaiian Islands, characterized by the use of a unique vocal technique that creates a rich, resonant sound. This practice is deeply intertwined with the cultural expressions of Hawaiian music and hula, as it serves as a means of storytelling and emotional expression within performances. The pu kani technique often incorporates the use of specific melodic patterns and rhythmic structures that are essential in conveying the themes of the accompanying hula movements.
Pu'ili: Pu'ili are traditional Hawaiian split bamboo sticks used as percussion instruments, creating distinct sounds that enhance musical performances, particularly in hula. These instruments are closely tied to the rhythm and expression of both vocal traditions and dance, serving as a vital accompaniment that adds depth to the storytelling aspect of hula.
Pu'ohe: Pu'ohe is a traditional Hawaiian musical instrument, specifically a type of nose flute made from bamboo or other materials, known for its distinct and soothing sound. It is often associated with the rich vocal traditions and dance forms of Polynesia, especially hula, where the melodic tones of the pu'ohe complement the expressive movements and storytelling inherent in the dance. This instrument plays a significant role in cultural ceremonies and personal expression in Hawaiian music.
Pūʻili: Pūʻili refers to a traditional Hawaiian instrument made from bamboo that is used in various cultural performances, especially in hula. This instrument is typically played by striking it against the hand or leg, producing a rhythmic sound that complements the movements of hula dancers. It serves both a musical and a cultural purpose, as it connects the performer to the rich traditions of Hawaiian music and storytelling.
Spirituality in performance: Spirituality in performance refers to the deep connection and expression of inner beliefs, values, and emotions that performers bring to their artistic practice. This concept emphasizes the significance of the performer’s spiritual experiences and the ways these experiences shape the art form, allowing for a transformative encounter between the performer, the audience, and the cultural context. In many traditions, this spirituality is expressed through ritual, storytelling, and movement, as performers channel their spirituality into their art, enriching the performance's meaning and resonance.
Traditional hawaiian music: Traditional Hawaiian music is a rich and diverse form of musical expression that has its roots in the ancient Polynesian culture of Hawaii. It encompasses a variety of vocal styles, instrumental techniques, and storytelling methods, often performed alongside hula, which serves as both a dance and a form of communication. This music reflects the island's cultural heritage, spirituality, and connection to nature, forming an integral part of ceremonies and celebrations.
Ukulele: The ukulele is a small, four-stringed instrument that originated in Hawaii, derived from the Portuguese braguinha and introduced to the islands in the 19th century. Known for its bright, cheerful sound, the ukulele plays a significant role in Hawaiian music and culture, often accompanying vocal traditions and dances like hula. It has become a symbol of Hawaiian music worldwide and is associated with both traditional and contemporary musical expressions.
Vibrato: Vibrato is a musical technique characterized by a regular, pulsating change of pitch that adds expression to music. It is often used by vocalists and instrumentalists to create warmth and richness in their sound. This technique can enhance the emotional quality of a performance and is closely associated with various styles of music, including specific vocal traditions and improvisational practices.