1940 Gibson Electric Hawaiian Model EH-185
February 25, 2017 • Geronimo "Geri" Valdriz • Instruments and Luthiers
The Gibson guitar company created this hybrid steel guitar by combining the advantages of metal with the "warmth" and visual quality of maple wood.
This steel guitar has a one piece metal insert encompassing the peg head, the entire length of the fret board, and the face plate. The metal insert is then affixed to the maple body.
The newly designed ES-300 diagonal pickup was also introduced on this model, and it featured the advanced "Alnico" magnets with adjustable pole pieces.
Collectors seek out this model for its beautiful "sunburst" finish.
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Hawai‘i Island Steel Guitar Experience at Mauna LaniNovember 13-16, 2025
Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection, Waimea, Hawai‘i Island
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Hawai‘i Island Steel Guitar Experience at Mauna Lani
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2026 Festivals and Workshops
Royal Hawaiian Center Presents Waikīkī Steel Guitar Week - July 5-11, 2026
July 6-9, 2026 – 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM HST (Nightly Concerts)
Royal Grove Stage, Royal Hawaiian Center, Waikīkī
Royal Hawaiian Center Presents Japan-Hawaiian Steel Guitar Festival
July 10, 2026 – 2:30 PM - 6:30 PM HST
Royal Grove Stage, Royal Hawaiian Center, Waikīkī
Royal Hawaiian Center Presents Waikīkī Steel Guitar Festival
July 11, 2026 – 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM and 4:00 PM - 6:30 PM HST
Royal Grove Stage, Royal Hawaiian Center, Waikīkī
2025 Hawaiian Steel Guitar Showcase Livestream Broadcasts
All broadcasts originate from the Hawaiian Steel Guitar Showcase Facebook Page and YouTube Channel.
Royal Hawaiian Center Presents Japan-Hawaiian Steel Guitar Festival (J-FESTA)
July 10, 2026 – 2:30 PM - 6:30 PM HST
Royal Hawaiian Center Presents Waikīkī Steel Guitar Festival
July 11, 2026 – 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM and 4:00 PM - 6:30 PM HST
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Steel Guitar FridaysEvery Friday – 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Royal Grove Stage, Royal Hawaiian Center, Waikīkī
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July 6, August 3, September 7, October 5, November 2, December 7, 2025 – 10:00 AM - Noon
Hula Grill Waikiki, Waikīkī
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