Hawaiian slack key guitar or kī hōʻalu is a celebrated cultural art form that developed many generations ago with the introduction of the guitar to the islands by vaqueros who were brought in to teach Hawaiians the art of ranching. Unique tunings and a nahenahe or beautiful and soothing guitar style evolved that captures the essence of the aloha spirit and provides great joy for listeners and performers alike.
Drawing from over 25 years of teaching experience, two-time GRAMMY(R) Nominated and eleven-time Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award-winning guitarist Jeff Peterson shares his knowledge of Hawaiian slack key guitar with in-depth explanation and repertoire in 9 tunings including Taro Patch, G Wahine, Drop C, Keola's C, Atta's C, C Mauna Loa, F Wahine, D Wahine, and Open D tunings for beginning through intermediate level guitarists. Repertoire covered includes original songs by Jeff and Hawaiian classics including Heʻeia, E Lili'u E, ʻO Makalapua, Koali, Hiʻilawe, Wai O Ke Aniani, Ka Manu, Leahi, Wailana, Halawa, Green Rose Hula, Adios Ke Aloha, No Ke Ano Ahiahi, Hilo Hanakahi, Nani Kauaʻi, 'Ahulili, Molokaʻi Waltz, Hula O Makee, Hilo One, Kahealani and Hawaiian Skies. Part 1 features basic playing techniques and fundamental slack key exercises in the Open G Taro Patch tuning. Part 2 includes 36 songs presented with detailed explanations and performance notes in 9 of the most celebrated slack key tunings. Worksheets with chords, vamps, and moving melodic shapes are included for each tuning covered along with beautifully recorded audio downloads to listen to each song being performed.