Guides and Resources for Music Enthusiasts

Music Event Calendars and Websites

Honolulu offers a vibrant and diverse music scene that caters to a wide range of musical tastes. For those interested in staying up-to-date with the latest concerts, festivals, and events, several resources are available:

1. Hawaii Public Radio (HPR) Event Calendar: This is a go-to resource for comprehensive listings of concerts and music events across Honolulu. HPR regularly updates its calendar with information about local performances, from classical concerts to contemporary music shows.

2. Honolulu Magazine: Known for its extensive coverage of local culture, Honolulu Magazine also provides a detailed event calendar. Their website includes a section dedicated to music events, offering insights into upcoming gigs and festivals around the city.

3. Eventbrite: A popular platform for discovering live events, Eventbrite lists numerous music happenings in Honolulu. Users can easily filter events by type, location, and date, ensuring they never miss a performance that piques their interest.

4. Social Media Platforms: Instagram and Facebook have become vital tools for event discovery. By following local venues, artists, and music groups, users can receive real-time updates on musical events, often directly from the organizers themselves.

5. Local Radio Stations: Stations like KTUH and KPOA frequently announce upcoming music events on air and provide detailed event listings on their websites, making them excellent resources for staying informed about the local music landscape.

Where to Buy Instruments and Accessories

Whether you're a seasoned musician or a beginner eager to learn, Honolulu offers a range of stores where you can purchase musical instruments and accessories:

1. Easy Music Center: As one of the largest music stores in Honolulu, Easy Music Center boasts an extensive selection of instruments, ranging from guitars and ukuleles to keyboards and percussion. They also offer music lessons and equipment rentals.

2. Dan’s Guitars: Specializing in guitars, this local favorite provides a curated selection of instruments and accessories for guitar enthusiasts. Known for their customer service, Dan’s Guitars also offers guitar repair services.

3. Hawaii Music Supply: Focusing on string instruments, Hawaii Music Supply is the premier destination for ukulele purchases. They offer a wide range of ukuleles, from entry-level models to custom-made instruments, along with various accessories.

4. Hawaiian Music Store: This store is ideal for those interested in traditional Hawaiian music. They provide a variety of traditional instruments, such as the pahu drum and ipu heke, along with a selection of Hawaiian music on CDs and vinyl.

5. Online Retailers: For those who prefer shopping from home, online retailers like Musician's Friend and Sweetwater ship a wide array of musical instruments and accessories to Honolulu.

Connecting with Local Music Communities and Networks

To engage more deeply with Honolulu's music community, these avenues provide excellent opportunities to connect with fellow enthusiasts and musicians:

1. Meetup Groups: Platforms like Meetup.com host various music-related gatherings, offering everything from jam sessions to discussion groups. These meetups are perfect for networking with local musicians and finding opportunities to perform or collaborate.

2. Community Music Schools: Institutions like the Honolulu Community Music School not only provide education but also facilitate community building. Participating in classes or ensembles at these schools can be a great way to meet like-minded music enthusiasts.

3. Music Workshops and Clinics: Regularly hosted by local music stores and schools, workshops offer a chance to hone skills while interacting with other musicians.

4. Social Media Groups: Facebook and Reddit groups focused on Honolulu's music scene are valuable for finding collaborators, sharing resources, and keeping up with local music news.

5. Volunteer Opportunities: Volunteering for music festivals or at local music venues can provide behind-the-scenes exposure to the industry and help forge connections with others passionate about music.

6. Local Libraries and Community Centers: These often serve as hubs for music-related community activities, including open mic nights, music appreciation groups, and special performances, fostering a sense of community among music lovers.

By utilizing these resources and connections, both visitors and locals can fully embrace the rich musical landscape of Honolulu, immersing themselves in its dynamic sounds and rhythms.