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Hula Terms 101

You hear the Hawaiian language entertwined with the culture's dance. But do you know what they mean? Here are definitions for some of the terms.

  • Alaka'i - instructor; often used when referring to kumu hula's (teacher) assistant
  • Auana - modern version of the hula
  • Halau - Long house for canoes or hula instruction; hula school
  • Ho`i - exit (dancers can chant or have a song as they exit)
  • Ipuheke - gourd instrument without a top
  • Kahiko - traditional version of the hula
  • Ka`i - entrance (dancers can chant or have a song as they enter)
  • Kala`au - stick dancing
  • Kane - man or men
  • Kumu Hula - hula teacher
  • Mele - song
  • Oli - chant
  • Pahu - drum
  • Pahu Puniu - thigh drum
  • Pu'ili - dancing implement made with bamboo
  • `Uli`uli - gourd instrument with filled with seeds and topped with colorful feathers
  • Wahine - woman or women

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