A new home for the Royal Hawaiian Band
A momentous day for our beloved Royal Hawaiian Band! On May 9, 2024, the band held its first full rehearsal at the Waikīkī Vista. The building is the band’s first known permanent home since its founding in 1836.
“Oh it’s hard to describe,” said bandmaster Clarke Bright when asked about this historic move. “It’s a long time coming but very much appreciated!”
The Blangiarid Administration completed its first successful acquisition in October 2022, when it acquired Waikīkī Vista. This represents the largest affordable housing purchase ever made by the City. The 19-story, 172,036-square-foot building is located at 2241 Kapi‘olani Boulevard in Mōʻiliʻili. Waikīkī Vista formerly housed Tokai University and Hawai’i Pacific University.
Strike up the band… at my event!
To request an appearance by the Royal Hawaiian Band follow these steps:
1) Contact the RHB office at (808) 768-6677 to inquire for available dates.
2) Field Coordinator will follow up with the requestor with band availability.
3) Once the event date and availability is confirmed, please generate a request letter with the following information:
a. Address the letter to the Mayor.
b. Who is requesting the performance?
c. What is the nature of the performance?
d. Where the performance is to be held?
e. When (Date and Time) is the performance to be held?
f. Provide contact person’s name, number, and/or email for the performance.
4) Please submit the request letter at least 30 days prior to the performance date
You can send requests to:
1) Email: Contact the RHB office at (808) 768-6677 to reach the Field Coordinator
2) Mail: Royal Hawaiian Band, 2805 Monsarrat Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
3) Fax: (808) 768-6670
Making the Band
It’s not very often positions open up to join the Royal Hawaiian Band. On this week’s episode of the One O‘ahu Podcast, bandmaster Clarke Bright explains the audition process.
“The majority of members will go through a rigorous audition process. But to get there, you have to have schooling,” explained bandmaster Bright. He goes on to say, “we always have people who come in from all over the nation for the audition process. They go through a blind audition, a sight-reading audition and an interview.”
For more information on the Royal Hawaiian Band, visit https://www.rhb-music.com/
