HONOLULU (KHON2) — The Royal Hawaiian Band has a rich history that dates back to Hawaii’s monarchy, but for everything it represents the band has never had a permanent rehearsal space, until now.
Founded by King Kamehameha III in 1836, the Royal Hawaiian Band is the only band in the United States with a royal legacy.
“The Royal Hawaiian Band is one of the only remaining living links to the monarchy,” stated Clarke Bright, Royal Hawaiian Band Bandmaster. “When the Hawaiian culture lost their kingdom, it was important to keep the Hawaiian voice alive somehow.”
One floor of the Waikiki Vista building is now dedicated to the band. The building was acquired by the City in 2022– at the time, it was the largest affordable housing purchase ever made by the City. Until now, the band has never had a permanent rehearsal space since its inception 188 years ago.
“Prior to this, we were anywhere we could find city space. We’d set up in tents on the grass. Sometimes we’ll do whatever it takes to get some rehearsal in,” said Bright.
Crowds would often find the band practicing at the Waikiki Shell or Kapiolani Bench Park. With a place to finally call their own, the band had its first rehearsal Thursday morning on May 9.
“Most great cities don’t have anything like the Royal Hawaiian Band,” said Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “For us to be able to give it that recognition, given this incredible history of what it means here in Hawai’i, is really special.”
The band often performs musical pieces composed by Hawaii’s most historic figures like Queen Liliuokalani. It will continue to bring history to the present now in a permanent home.
“With this space, we can add many more rehearsals and have a chance to vision and dream and strategize in a beautiful hall,” stated Bright.