Luau Musician (Casual)
Company : Highgate
Location : Lahaina, HI, 96761
Job Type : Part Time
Date Posted : 12 January 2026
Compensation Type
HourlyHighgate Hotels
Highgate is a leading real estate investment and hospitality management company with over $15 billion of assets under management and a global portfolio of more than 400 hotels spanning North America, Europe, the Caribbean, and Latin America.
With a 30-year track record as an innovator in the hospitality industry, this forward-thinking company provides expert guidance through all stages of the property cycle, from planning and development through recapitalization or disposition. Highgate continues to demonstrate success in developing a diverse portfolio of bespoke lifestyle hotel brands, legacy brands, and independent hotels and resorts, featuring contemporary programming and digital acumen. The company utilizes industry-leading revenue management tools that efficiently identify and predict evolving market dynamics to drive outperformance and maximize asset value.
With an executive team of seasoned hospitality leaders and corporate offices worldwide, Highgate is a trusted partner for top ownership groups and major hotel brands. www.highgate.com
Overview
The Luau Musician must be an expert at playing the instrument they are hired to play. An integral part of their responsibility is to work in conjunction with the Luau Stage Manager under the direction of the Luau Artistic Director to maintain the quality of the Luau Show.
Responsibilities
These duties include but are not limited to the following:
- Must work closely with the Luau Stage Manager, Luau Artistic Director, F&B Luau Manager, and all Luau staff.
- Must attend and participate in all scheduled rehearsals and trainings for the show as required.
- Must attend all pre-shift and post shift meetings.
- Must perform all assigned pre-shift and post shift duties.
- Responsible to learn and perform all of the components of the music for each performance in the Luau Show.
- Must be a master of the instrument that you are hired to play.
- Must be able to support and assist in playing other instruments in the Tahitian and Samoan segments in the Luau Show.
- Must be flexible to learning other techniques to perform the music for each song and dance performed in the Luau Show.
- Must have the ability to identify technical problems and be able to resolve any issues asap.
- Responsible to ensure all instruments are kept in good condition.
- Responsible to report any problems or issues to the Luau Stage Manager that requires his/her attention as they arise.
- Must ensure compliance with all local and liquor laws and health and sanitation regulations.
- Must be in compliance with the Hotel rules and regulations.
- Must attend and participate in all department and company required meetings/training.
- Must provide excellent guest experience for overall guest satisfaction.
- Must perform other duties as directed by supervisor/management.
Qualifications
- At least 2-years’ experience in playing the instrument you are hired to play.
- At least 2-years' experience in a Luau show production or equivalent.
- Previous guest service experience required.
- Demonstrated knowledge of Hawaiian/Polynesian culture, songs and dances.
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Frequently asked questions
Gaining proficiency in Hawaiian instruments requires focused practice and cultural immersion. For a Luau Musician in Lahaina, it’s crucial to study traditional techniques and rhythms, often through workshops or mentorship, to authentically support the luau show's musical segments and provide a genuine Polynesian experience.
Performing as a casual Luau Musician involves adapting to varying show schedules and maintaining instrument quality under tropical conditions. Musicians must quickly troubleshoot technical issues and collaborate seamlessly with stage and artistic directors to uphold show quality in an outdoor Hawaiian setting.
Starting as a Luau Musician opens doors to roles like lead performer, cultural consultant, or entertainment coordinator within resorts and hospitality venues. Experience with Polynesian music and guest interaction can also lead to opportunities in music education or cultural preservation projects.
Highgate emphasizes cultural integrity by requiring their Luau Musicians to participate in rehearsals and trainings led by the artistic director. This ensures performers not only master their instruments but also embody authentic Polynesian traditions that enhance guest experiences.
At Highgate, Luau Musicians must align with a global standard of quality, collaborating closely with diverse teams and adhering to strict rehearsal schedules. The company’s focus on innovation and guest satisfaction elevates the role beyond music to a comprehensive cultural entertainment experience.
Hourly compensation for casual Luau Musicians in Lahaina typically ranges from $18 to $28, reflecting the specialized skill set and cultural knowledge required. Rates can vary based on experience, instrument mastery, and the complexity of the show segments involved.
Lahaina’s vibrant tourism and hospitality sector creates steady demand for skilled Luau Musicians, though competition is shaped by local talent depth and seasonal visitor fluctuations. Familiarity with Polynesian music and flexibility in performance schedules enhances hiring prospects.
While formal certifications are rare, proficiency in Hawaiian language, Polynesian cultural studies, and demonstrated experience in luau productions significantly boost employability. Engaging with local cultural organizations also signals respect and dedication valued by employers.
This position demands tight coordination with the luau stage manager, artistic director, and food & beverage team to synchronize musical performances with dance and guest service elements, ensuring cohesive show flow and immersive audience engagement throughout the event.
Luau Musicians uniquely blend musical expertise with cultural storytelling, requiring mastery of multiple instruments and readiness to assist in Tahitian and Samoan segments. Daily duties include attending rehearsals, maintaining instruments, and contributing to an authentic, dynamic performance environment.