About Ho‘okūkū Kīkā Kila

Ho‘okūkū Kīkā Kila ("Steel Guitar Contest") is a competition for Hawaiian steel guitar players. The competition is held annually as an integral part of Waikīkī Steel Guitar Week, and is held on the Royal Grove Stage at the Royal Hawaiian Center in Waikīiī.

The contest idea was conceived by Monte McComber, Royal Hawaiian Center's Cultural Director and emcee of several of HIMELE's Hawaiian steel guitar festivals. HIMELE and the Royal Hawaiian Center co-produce the event.

The competition is open to any Hawaiian steel guitar player who does not currently earn more than 50% of their annual income from professional musical performances or teaching. There is no entry fee.

There are three competition divisions for youth, adult amateur, and seniors. Prizes are awarded to the winners in each category.

A fourth, non-compete divison is available for steel guitarists who want to experience the joy of being on stage without any pressure, without scoring or song requirements. No prizes are awarded in this division.

In addition to being a contest, the event is an educational initiative. By focusing on amateur talent and providing the non-compete division, the event fosters the next generation of players, ensuring that the legacy of Joseph Kekuku and the legends of the Hawaiian steel guitar remain a vibrant, living tradition in the islands.

Event applications will be available online approximately 90 days prior to the event.

The event is presented by Royal Hawaiian Center, HIMELE (Hawaii Institute for Music Enrichment and Learning Experiences), and Ke Kula Mele School of Hawaiian Music.