For the first time in decades, the usually hushed chambers of Iolani Palace came alive with music and song, harking back to the days when King Kalakaua used to entertain there.

In a first-of-its-kind endeavor, PBS Hawaii filmed contemporary Hawaiian musicians performing at the historic landmark last month as part of its presentation, "Na Mele: Na Lani Eha from Iolani Palace."

The special program, produced for the public television station’s live pledge drive, premieres 7:30 p.m. Monday, on Kamehameha Day, and features music from Hawaii’s monarchy era.

There was royal inspiration, to say the least.

"When you’re in the building, you just realize how special it is," said executive producer Robert Pennybacker. "The interior of the palace is stunning. … The acoustics in there are just wonderful."

Performing at the palace was a moving experience for many of the musicians, who said they felt the spirits of their ancestors. Robert Cazimero said he was humbled and awed as he sang and played the 1880s piano beneath King Kalakaua’s portrait.

The show features 14 songs performed by Hawaii’s top musicians, including Cazimero, Kuuipo Kumukahi, Aaron Mahi, the Hawaiian Music Hall of Fame Serenaders, Nina Kealiiwahamana, Dennis and David Kamakahi, Helene Woodward, Marlene Sai, Haunani Apoliona and guitarist Jeff Peterson.

All the music came from compositions by King Kalakaua, Queen Liliuokalani, Princess Likelike and Prince Leleiohoku, collectively known as The Royal Four, or Na Lani Eha.

Filming took place in the course of one day.

Part of the challenge of filming at the palace was being very careful not to disturb or damage any of its artifacts.

Like all visitors to the palace, musicians and crew were required to wear booties over their shoes to protect the floors. Any props, including chairs, silk flowers and dropcloths, had to first be fumigated before they were brought to the set.

Only palace staff with gloves were allowed to handle or move existing items. Special LED lights had to be used to prevent deterioration of fabrics, paintings and paper artifacts.

During the TV show, the Hawaii Youth Opera Chorus, directed by Nola A. Nahulu, sings "Hawaii Pono‘i" at the foot of the Grand Hall’s koa staircase. Cazimero performs "Kalakaua" in the Blue Room, a formal parlor where the monarchs often received dignitaries.

Sai sings Liliuokalani’s "Ku‘u Pua Paoakalani," accompanied by Peterson in the Throne Room, which was traditionally where the royal court held its balls.

"To have music in (the Throne Room) was bringing us back to the way that room would have been used in the past," said Heather Diamond, palace curator. "Some of the music was probably actually composed in the palace. Everybody was very moved."