Joel Katz Hawaiian Lap Steel Guitar

My unique specialty is the Hawaiian steel Guitar. I also play guitar and Ukulele. My music can always compliment your event. The sound is gentle and will not interfere with conversation and socializing. I have been a performer on Maui for over 30 years,
The Hawaiian steel guitar is not normally played by itself and it requires amplification to be heard. I do this by playing to a subtle backing track I have created by playing bass and ukulele. I play this from an iPad. I can do this solo this way. I can also hire other musicians to work with me.
I play for the "Old Lahaina Luau" on Maui and I have great musicians that can work with me. Guitar and ukulele can be played on a beach without amplification, although I do have a battery-operated system.

I have been performing professionally on Maui for 27 years. I am also the instructor in the Hawaiian Steel Guitar, guitar, ukulele, and audio technology programs at the University of Hawaii Maui College and head the award winning Seaside Recording Studio. I am passionate about carrying on the tradition of this rare instrument and style. My recent CD was a Finalist for “Instrumental Album of the Year” in the 2013 Na Hoku Hanohano awards.

The song selection is Hawaiian Style Steel Guitar Classics. I have also added jazz and pop tunes. You can click on a play arrow to hear my samples and even download them. You will find a selection of demos of some of the songs here. For these Demos I created a subtle backing track playing upright bass and ukulele in the classic style. I use these to give a consistent outstanding sound in live performances.

You can be assured of always getting professionalism and the appropriate tasteful performance for your function and venue.