Berger came to Hawaii in 1872 as a Prussian military bandmaster at the suggestion of the German Emperor to direct the local Royal Hawaiian Band. Under his direction, the band became an internationally recognized orchestra. Berger also composed a number of pieces known to this day (including the Hawaiian national anthem). Berger, who maintained the best relations with the royal family, granted the ukulele a full-fledged place in his orchestra. He stayed in Hawaii until his death.