Requirements

Divisions

There are three divisions that compete for prizes.

• Keiki (Youth) - 17 years and younger
• Open Amateur (Adult) - ages 18-59
• Kūpuna (Senior) - 60 and older

A fourth, non-compete "Try" division is availble for steel guitarists who want to experience the joy of being on stage without any pressure, without scoring or song requirements.

Instruments

Performances must be on a Hawaiian Steel Guitar (electric or acoustic / sitting or standing). Pedal steel is excluded to maintain the event's traditional focus.

Performance

Each contestant in the compete divisions (Keiki, Open Amateur, Kūpuna) will perform exactly two songs: the Choice Song and the "Hat Draw" Challenge Song. The time limit is 4 minutes per song. Judging will be based strictly on the solo performance.

Participants in the "Try" division will perform one Choice Song only (Free choice of song / No mandatory "Hat Draw" songs required). No age limits apply.

No additional songs or multiple entries per person/group are permitted.

Performance Requirements

Format

This is a contest for a Single Soloist. While up to 3 accompanists are allowed on stage, the judging will be based strictly on the solo performance of the Hawaiian Steel Guitar.

The Choice Song

This segment highlights personal style, creative arrangements, and the quot;soulquot; of the player's musicianship of a song chosen by the contestant.

The "Hat Draw" Challenge Song

To ensure a level playing field, contestants must prepare all these three quintessential Hawaiian standards. The specific song will be drawn immediately before the contestant takes the stage.

• Hanalei Moon (Testing sustain and vibrato)
• Lovely Hula Hands (Testing phrasing and lyrical slides)
• Sophisticated Hula (Testing rhythm and picking precision)

Each selection will be 1 1/2 times in length (Verse 1, 2, Bridge, Verse 3, Bridge, Verse 3, TAG ending).

Arrangements

Contestants are encouraged to be creative with their own arrangements. For those seeking additional guidance or resource support for these standards, please contact Ke Kula Mele for more information.