Mauka Warriors Luau brings a unique experience of Hawaiian culture, where each Hawaiian flower carries a sacred message of love, luck, and the spirit of Aloha.
In ancient times, when people did not yet have modern connection devices to transmit messages, drums such as Tariparau, To'ere, and Fa'atete were the heartbeat of the village. They were not only used in festivals as musical instruments, but also carried the power to connect people with one another. Drums were used to summon warriors to battle, to lead dancers in sacred ceremonies, and to bond the community with their powerful sounds.
At Mauka Warriors Luau, these traditional values are still honored and preserved. The lively drum performances are not only entertainment, but also a living heritage, where you can feel the power of Polynesian culture through every beat.
Below, let’s explore some of the most common traditional drums used in luau parties.
Tariparau Drum: The Sound of Community Strength
Tariparau is a large drum, usually made from a hollow wooden trunk (often coconut wood or sturdy native wood) and stretched with animal skin at both ends, such as stingray skin or cowhide.
This is a bass drum originating from the Tahitian people, often appearing in performances or Otea dances.
Tariparau Drum
The sound of the Tariparau is resonant, with strong reverberation, used to call the villagers or signal major events.
Today, at Mauka Warriors Luau, the sound of the Tariparau is used to open the ceremony, like a powerful invitation to all visitors to join in the vibrant atmosphere of the party.
To'ere Drum: The Rhythm of Warriors
To'ere is a long slit drum, carved from a single solid piece of wood, often hardwood such as jackfruit wood or native trees. This type of drum does not use animal skin like regular drums, but instead creates sound through the hollow wooden body with a long slit running along it. The artist uses sticks to strike different positions to produce rich tones.
To'ere Drum
In the past, To'ere often resounded in battles, carrying urgent rhythms that stirred the spirit of warriors. Today, in peacetime, it is used in dances. Visitors can subtly feel that at Mauka Warriors Luau, To'ere is used to guide the dancers in their performance, telling historical stories through drum rhythms.
Fa'atete Drum: The Soul of Rituals
Fa'atete is smaller than Tariparau, made from a hollow wooden trunk and stretched on one side with thin animal skin. Its sound is sharp, fast, and emotional, very suitable for accents in ceremonies or dances.
Fa'atete Drum
Fa'atete is often regarded as the spiritual heartbeat of the ceremony. At Mauka Warriors Luau, Fa'atete blends with Tariparau and To'ere to create a multi-layered drum ensemble, both powerful and sacred.
Experience the Lively Drum Rhythms at Mauka Warriors Luau
Coming to Mauka Warriors Luau, you not only enjoy a rich culinary feast but also immerse yourself in the traditional music of Polynesia. Each drum from the majestic Tariparau, the urgent To'ere, to the sacred Fa'atete is handcrafted from natural wood and animal skin, preserving the full essence of the ancestors.
If you want to find a deeply Hawaiian cultural experience where every drumbeat is a story, every dance a heritage, then Mauka Warriors Luau is truly an unmissable destination on your journey in Oʻahu.
See more detail about Mauka Warriors Luau ticket packages here.
