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The hula is a tradition unique to Hawaii that’s known for entrancing chants, dances, and drums. But the performance also symbolizes the history and culture of the islands, from what the dancers wear to the instruments they play. That’s why modern drums aren’t used; instead, the entertainers play the ipu. As a mainlander, you’re probably unfamiliar with this percussion instrument. This guide will explain this fascinating instrument and how it came to be.

What Is the Ipu?

The ipu is actually a thick, hard-shelled gourd that grows on a climbing vine. It originally came to Hawaii via the Polynesian voyagers, who traveled to the islands in ocean-crossing canoes. 

Early Hawaiians hollowed out these plentiful gourds to hold water, dye, medicine, and poi—a traditional cuisine made from the stem of the taro plant. Since ipu are buoyant, fisherman them to store hooks and lures in case they were knocked into the water.

hulaThe ipu was also an integral part of hula, and it is still used to this day to create rhythms for the dancers. It’s usually played by the ho’opa’a—the people chanting to accompany the dance—but sometimes the dancers play too, incorporating it into the choreography. 

How Is the Ipu Made?

There are two types of ipu used in hula, the ipu heke and ipu heke ‘ole. Drum makers begin both by thoroughly cleaning the inside of the gourds to create the hollow chamber that gives the ipu it’s resonant sound.

The ipu heke ‘ole is a single gourd that has been cut off at the neck. The ipu heke, however, is made by joining two gourds of different sizes. Each gourd is cut off at the neck, and the smaller one is placed, neck side down, on top of the larger one. A hole is then carved in the top of the gourd to allow sound to escape. A handle is sometimes attached to the gourd to make it easier for the dancer or ho’opa’a to hold and play.

There are two main techniques used when playing the ipu. The downbeat, “u,” is played with the heel of the hand on the bottom of the gourd. The upbeat, “te,” is done by hitting the fingers against the side of the gourd. Practiced ipu drummers will also do finger rolls or hand flutters to create the captivating sounds that make the hula a one-of-a-kind experience. 

 

Learn more about traditional Hawaiian culture and see the ipu in action at Experience Nutridge luau in Honolulu, HI. This estate is home to Hawaii’s first macadamia nut plantation and has been a breathtaking entertainment destination for decades. This celebration allows you to experience Hawaii’s history through traditional cooking and hula storytelling. Visit their website to learn more about this special experience, and call today at (808) 531-5050 to make a reservation. 

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