Aloha Concert Luncheon 2023

Concert 2023

Youth Symphony I

Conductor Joseph Stepec

Youth Symphony II

Conductors Elton Masaki & Susan Ochi-Onishi

with special guest Kathleen Stuart

Hawai‘i Convention Center Ballroom

Sunday, May 7, 2023 11:00 am

SUMMER STRINGS

(VIOLIN, VIOLA, CELLO, BASS)

SUPER STRINGS

(WINDWARD OʻAHU VIOLIN CLASSES)

PACIFIC MUSIC INSTITUTE

SOLO & STRING QUARTET, SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA, JAZZ INTENSIVE, WIND ENSEMBLE, & MORE

Message from the President

Dear HYS Families and Friends:

Greetings! It is with great pleasure and honor that I extend a warm aloha to everyone attending Hawaii Youth Symphony’s 2023 Aloha Concert Luncheon. After four long years marked by unprecedented challenges, it is truly thrilling to finally hold this inperson gathering and celebrate together.

Throughout the pandemic, the young musicians of Hawaii Youth Symphony demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and outstanding talent. Despite the difficulties they faced, they never lost their love and dedication to music, inspiring us all with their unrelenting passion.

This year's senior class, the impressive Class of 2023, persevered through a tumultuous period. With each reopening phase, their possibilities for music-making grew exponentially, culminating in their Spring Concert just a few weeks ago. Their stunning performances left us in awe, and even moved us to tears.

Their unwavering commitment to creating superior, high-quality music was not only an opportunity to perform masterpieces such as Prokofiev’s Romeo & Juliet or Dvorák’s ‘New World’ Symphony or Themes from Wicked, but a platform on which they could become champions and shine.

Thank you all for being with us on this remarkable occasion, which marks the triumph of resilience, excellence, and dedication to the arts. We at Hawaii Youth Symphony are grateful for your resolute support for all of today’s performers. Together, we can build a future in which every youth can cultivate their own personal excellence through music, just as the Class of 2023 has. Onward!

Aloha,

Randy Wong President & CEO

Acknowledgments

We are grateful to our community partners, whose generous support and special talents are invaluable to Hawaii Youth Symphony.

State of Hawai’i

Dr. Josh Green, Governor

Hawaii State Foundation on Culture and the Arts

City & County of Honolulu

Rick Blangiardi, Mayor

Mayor’s Office of Culture and the Arts

Makanani Salā, Executive Director

Accounting

KMH LLP

Evan Yamamoto

Charles Gilmour

Robert Loke

Audio and Video Engineer

Duane Padilla

Hawaii Symphony Orchestra

Dave Moss

Hawaii Convention Center

Merchandise

Hybrid Design Hawaii

Printing

Edwards Enterprises

Mark Ibara

Justin You

Program Design

Mark Nakamura

Public Relations

Becker Communications

Susan Wright

Taryn Wells

Laura Young

Social Media

Vibe Creative Marketing

Erica Mau-Schank

Jessica Nelson

Alyssa Kawamura

Website

White Space Studios

University of Hawai‘i Music Department

Dr. Laurence Paxton, Chair

William Watson, Facility Coordinator

University Laboratory Public Charter School

Keoni Jeremiah, Principal

Kaimuki Middle School

Frank Fernandes, Principal Symphony Coaches

Jeremy Lawi, CO/YSII Percussion

Coach

Alan Nii, YSII Wind Coach

Symphony Parent Volunteers

Michelle Funai

Shelley Miyashiro

Wade Nobuhara

Debbie Petilos

Brooke Sakamoto

Lawrence So

Joyce Wong

Mahalo to the music educators and private music teachers whose expertise, encouragement and support mean so much to our talented musicians. We are also grateful to the families and friends who volunteer their time and energy to strengthen our program and make it a success.

2022–23 Board of Directors & Staff

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Patti Look, Chair

Sharon R. Himeno, Vice Chair

Erica Mau-Schank, Secretary

Richard K. Ing, Interim Treasurer Directors

Lorrin Hirano, Esq.

Collin Hoo

Martin Hsia, Esq.

David Imanaka, Esq.

Malcolm Lau

Michael Onofrietti

Aaron Salā

Geoffrey S. Sewell, MD

Jake Shimabukuro

Jean Tsukamoto

Mary Ellen Williams

Lauren Yoo

Hawaii Youth Symphony

1350 South King St., Suite 201

Honolulu, HI 96814

Tel. (808) 941-9706

www.HIYouthSymphony.org

Federal Tax ID 99-0119771

ADMINISTRATION

Randy Wong, President & CEO

Emmanuel Hobro, Librarian

Carissa Miyamoto, Operations Manager

Brent Ramos, Receptionist

Cyrinthia Richards, Development Coordinator

Hannah Watanabe, Programs Manager

FACULTY Symphony Program

Joseph Stepec, Director of Orchestral Activities; Conductor – Youth Symphony I

Wayne Fanning, Conductor –Concert Orchestra

Elton Masaki, Conductor – Youth Symphony II

Susan Ochi-Onishi, Conductor –Youth Symphony II

Hannah Watanabe, Conductor –Concert Orchestra

Academy Program

Chad Uyehara, Director; Conductor

– Intermediate String Ensemble& Concert String Orchestra

Michael Lim, Conductor – Beginning String Ensemble & String Orchestra Ensemble

Brent Ramos, Academy Strings Program Coordinator

Laurie Shimabukuro, Super Strings Instructor

Jeff Hamano, Summer Strings Instructor

Jazz Program

Dean Taba, Director & Conductor

Ryan Howe, Conductor

Noel Okimoto, Conductor

Music in the Clubhouse

Christopher Cabrera, Music4Kids Instructor

Yuseon Nam, Nānākuli Strings Instructor

Pacific Music Institute

Joseph Stepec, Artistic Director

Jeremy Lawi, General Manager

Ignace Jang, Solo & String Quartet Program Director

Dean Taba, Jazz Program Director

Kassi Hatakenaka, Admissions Coordinator

SYMPHONY PROGRAM

Aloha Concert

Sunday, May 7, 2023 ✽ 11:00 am

Hawai‘i Convention Center Ballroom

Welcome

Ben Guiterrez, Master of Ceremonies

Invocation

Landon Yanagisawa, Waiākea High School Senior

Lunch Service

Youth Symphony II

Elton Masaki, Conductor

Susan Ochi-Onishi, Conductor

Morning, Noon and Night in Vienna Franz von Suppé

Anson Akemoto, cello solo

Two Songs from the League of Legends Christian Linke, arr. Andrés Soto

The Challengers

Summoner’s Call

Selections from The Phantom of the Opera

Intermission

Youth Symphony I

Joseph Stepec, Conductor

Andrew Lloyd Webber arr. Calvin Custer

I Vespri Siciliani Overture Giuseppe Verdi

Youth Symphony I with Kathleen Stuart

Puttin’ On the Ritz Irving Berlin, arr. Bill Holcombe Jr.

Embraceable You

George Gershwin, arr. Bill Holcombe Jr.

Fly Me to the Moon Bart Howard, arr. John Bachalis

Youth Symphony I

Roman Carnival Overture Hector Berlioz

Senior Aloha Ceremony

Michael Lim, Conductor

Aloha ‘Oe

Queen Lili‘uokalani arr. Michael-Thomas Foumai

About the Conductors

SUSAN OCHI-ONISHI Conductor

Susan Ochi-Onishi has proudly served as a middle and high school music educator in the Hawaii State Department of Education since 1988. Prior to teaching at Kaimukī Middle School, she has held music teaching positions at Waianae Intermediate School and Moanalua High School.

Mrs. Ochi-Onishi is in her 29th year at Kaimukī Middle School where she instructs the beginning, intermediate, and advanced band students and directs the Kaimukī Middle School Symphonic Winds. During her tenure at Kaimukī, she has worked hard to nurture, build and consolidate the KMS Music Department. She provided opportunities for her colleagues to serve as KMS Department Head while she focused on leading the KMS Symphonic Winds to a higher performance level. As the first middle school band from Hawai‘i to receive an invitation, KMS Symphonic Winds have proudly represented the State of Hawai‘i by performing at the 2019 Music for All National Festival. In 2015, KMS Symphonic Winds was the first middle school band from Hawai‘i to perform at Carnegie Hall, where they received the Gold Award for their high adjudication scores. In addition to performing at the ASBDA Convention and traveling to share their music with others, many of our students continue to participate in the Hawaii Youth Symphony Programs.

Mrs. Ochi-Onishi received her Bachelor’s Degree and PDMUS in Music Education and Oboe Performance from the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa. She received her Master’s of Music degree from Northwestern University, where she was a student of Chicago Symphony Orchestra musicians Ray Still (oboe) and Grover Schlitz (English Horn). Her past oboe teachers include: Linda Strommen, Jeffrey Rathbun, Thomas Boyd, Margot Golding, and Roy Yanagida. She has performed with the Honolulu Symphony Orchestra, Royal Hawaiian Band, Maui Symphony, Diamond Head Theater, and various music ensembles. She served as the oboe lecturer at the University of Hawai‘i and continues to serve as the oboe clinician for the Pacific Music Institute. Her professional affiliations include the O‘ahu Band Directors Association and the American School Band Directors Association. Mrs. Ochi-Onishi is CoConductor of the Hawaii Youth Symphony II and is an alumna of the Hawaii Youth Symphony Program where she served as Principal Oboe during her time as a student.

ELTON MASAKI Conductor

Elton Masaki holds a Bachelor of Education Degree in Secondary Education with an emphasis in music from the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa and a Master of Music in Education Degree from Boston University. Mr. Masaki is the current high school orchestra director at Kamehameha School Kapālama Campus and the associate conductor of Youth Symphony II. In the past, he has also taught orchestra at Mid-Pacific Institute, Kamehameha Middle School, and with the Hawaii Youth Symphony Academy String Program. In addition to this, Mr. Masaki also serves as an orchestra clinician for a number of different camps and workshops both on and off island and manages the A Major Quartet. When he isn’t teaching, he is active as a community violin/viola player with performances in numerous musical theater productions as well as with other community orchestras such as the Oahu Civic Orchestra, UH Symphony, Oahu Chamber Orchestra, Allegro Chamber Orchestra, Hawaii Chamber Orchestra and has also subbed as a violinist with the Hawaii Pops, Maui Symphony, and Kona Symphony.

Violin I

Jannik Evanoff

Elizabeth Fink

Ymin Guo, Concertmaster

Madeline Hodge, Assistant Concertmaster

Kai Im

Brian Lim

Vance Maeshiro

Alyssa Santos

Liliko Ueda

Kaylin Wee

Violin II

Nicholas Chi

Flora Elham

Brayden Fabro

Coco Kim, Principal

Kara Kim

Mari Muramoto

Christopher Oyama

Naomi Thompson

Daniel Yoo

Eileen Zhang

Irene Zhong

Viola

Sinjin Cho-Tupua

Mana Chun

Swan Kim

Albert Ko, Principal

Hannah Kwak

Lulu Wang

Cello

Ian Ahn

Anson Akemoto, Principal

Ian Jun

Donald Lee

Ty Tokunaga

Kiron Toma

Ella Williams

Bryan Wood

Jojo Wung

Taigo Yuen

Bass

Riley Pa‘akaula, guest musician

Sayuri Yamamoto , guest musician

Youth Symphony II

Piccolo

Taylor Omine

Flute

Prince Joshua Dionido

Kenneth Hironaka

Taylor Omine

Sky Voong, Principal

Oboe

Sayleen Aglanao, Principal

Hyatt Yoshioka

English Horn

Hyatt Yoshioka

Clarinet

Jonah Kashiwamura

Jeannie Kim

Ethan Nakata

Aiden Taheri

Alicia Tangonan, Principal

Bass Clarinet

Aiden Taheri

Bassoon

Kainani Nitz, Principal

Aimee Okagawa

Horn

McKenzee Espiritu

Duke Katayama

Jake Miyakawa

Chelsea Song, Principal

Nicholas Xu

Trumpet

Zachary Choi

Blake Hironaka

Tyler Nakazaki, Principal

Christopher Yara

Trombone

Ohriyon Cuffie, Principal

Kellan Imaguchi

Jae Koo

Louie James Magcalas

Jason Sakata

Tuba

Jisu Jang

Zoe Miyashiro, Principal

Percussion

Aaron Chen

Macie Ho, Principal

Mani Kovacich

Carter Nobuhara

Please note that wind and percussion students rotate part assignments for each piece.

About Youth Symphony II

Youth Symphony II (YSII) is the second most advanced of HYS’s seven orchestras. For the 2022–2023 season, YSII is composed of 70 students from 24 public, private and homeschools across O‘ahu and Kaua‘i. Ymin Guo, a ninth-grade ‘Iolani School student, is this season’s concertmaster.

About the Conductor

JOSEPH STEPEC Conductor & Director of Orchestral Activities

Apassionate arts educator, Mr. Joseph Stepec serves as the Director of Orchestral Activities with the Hawaii Youth Symphony’s Symphony Program and as the Artistic Director of the Pacific Music Institute. He also serves as an Associate Professor of Music at the University of Hawai‘i where he directs the University of Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra (the UHSO).

Mr. Stepec has worked closely with countless artists and regularly clinics for ensembles in Hawai‘i and across the country and abroad in China. He has maintained a close relationship with the Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra and has been a frequent guest artist in their educational and pops concert series. As the director of two of the top educational ensembles in the state of Hawai‘i, he has been featured on numerous broadcasts that have reached thousands. In addition to leading orchestras, Mr. Stepec also maintains an active and varied teaching schedule. He teaches a private conducting and violin studio at the University of Hawai‘i. Mr. Stepec studied violin performance at the prestigious Oberlin Conservatory of Music at Oberlin College and Orchestral Conducting at the Eastman School of Music and Indiana University’s Jacob’s School of Music. His teachers have included renowned pedagogues David Effron, Arthur Fagen, and Neil Varon.

In his free time, Mr. Stepec enjoys hiking in the beautiful mountains of Hawai‘i and spending time with his mischievous cat, Mimi.

Violin I

Ylang Guo, Assistant Concertmaster

Erika Kwee, Concertmaster

Keanna Lau

Teo Lubecke

Jacob Matsuda

Cody James Nakagawa

Sevastyan Swan

Belise Swartwood

Gwyneth Tenn

Kate Wong

Violin II

Preston Chi

Leia Choi

Yxing Guo

Ashley Jisue Hong

Hinano Kawaiaea, Principal

Emi Okumoto

Sakura Saito

Max Shinno

Kaitlyn Sim

Viola

Maggie Chen

Trevor Hyun

Jonathan Kwon

Taylor Ohta

Keon Sagara, Principal

Cassidy Sakamoto

Cello

Pyotr Alvarado

Leo Bala

Leiyao Chang

Yun Hao He

Cassidy Ibanez

Ashlyn Ito

Celina Lim, Principal

Emma Newman

Jason Vierra

Bass

Samantha Barayuga, Principal

Seitaro Kobayashi

Joshua Wung

Youth Symphony I

Flute

Shane Komeiji

Brooke Morita

Iris Sim

Noelani Velasco

Oboe

Jeny Gorospe

Tiffany Nagano

Kyle Siu

Ayaka Yoshii

Clarinet

Grace Kawaoka

Haley Muramatsu

Leanne So

Chelsea Takushi

Bassoon

Spencer Lyau

Horn

Gabriel Cole

Irene Kim

Jennifer Moritaka

Caleb Tamargo

Trumpet

Dawson Chan

Juan Fangon

Joel Lee

Trombone

Archer Aloiau

Graysen Oumi

Timothy Shimizu

Luke Watanabe

Percussion

Travis Chen

Brady Schultz

Harp

Arabella Tan

Please note that wind and percussion students rotate part assignments for each piece.

About Youth Symphony I

Youth Symphony I (YSI) is the most advanced of HYS’s seven orchestras and is one of the finest youth symphonies in the country. In its history, YSI has performed with renowned guest artists, was a finalist in the Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards, and had the special honor of performing on From The Top, a nationally-broadcast radio show. For the 2022–2023 season, YSI is composed of 65 students, grades 9–12, from 16 public, home and independent schools across O‘ahu. Erika Kwee, a senior from Punahou School, is this season’s concertmaster.

Ben Gutierrez is an Emmy Award-winning weather anchor and general assignment reporter at Hawaii News Now. He is also a member of the Hawaiʻi Academy of Recording Arts, the home of the Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards, and is a former member of its Board of Governors. Heʻs proud to be a longtime supporter of Hawaii Youth Symphony.

Special Guest

Kathleen Stuart

Kāneʻohe-born singer, Kathleen Stuart, was nurtured from a young age by O‘ahu’s performing arts programs and community theaters. Under the direction of Ron Bright at CPAC, her performance as Nellie Forbush in South Pacific secured Kathleen a spot at the stage conservatory Mountview Academy in London, England. From this bright beginning Kathleen’s career led to work in regional theater, national tours, and on-camera in film, TV and commercials. The Kathleen Stuart Trio was formed in New York City in 2018, performing jazz and blues weekly at The Rum House in Times Square and venues throughout Manhattan.

Kathleen returned home as a guest artist to play Anna in The King and I (Poʻokela Award) for the I'm A Bright Kid Foundation, the non-profit created to perpetuate the teachings of Mr. Bright by supporting the performing arts and education; and later Kathleen received the honor of teaching for the foundation. She returned again for Mānoa Valley Theatre’s Allegiance as Hannah Campbell (BroadwayWorld Award) which made its Honolulu debut at the Hawaiʻi Theatre Center. Kathleen is thrilled to continue to share what she has learned through her career and collaborate with the musicians here today. Connect on IG! @kathleenybean

Kathleen Stuart

Ben Gutierrez

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Sayleen Aglanao

Archer Aloiau

Pyotr Alvarado

Leo Bala

Samantha Barayuga

Micah Branner

Maggie Chen

Sinjin Cho-Tupua

Ohriyon Cuffie

Prince Joshua Dionido

Juan Fangon

Jeny Gorospe

Ylang Guo

Yun Hao He

Blake Hironaka

Kenneth Hironaka

Macie Ho

Madeline Hodge

Trevor Hyun

Congratulations, Class of 2023!

Jisu Jang

Jonah Kashiwamura

Hinano Kawaiaea

Irene Kim

Erika Kwee

Jonathan Kwon

Celina Lim

Michael Lockwood

Teo Lubecke

Hailey Mashino

Jacob Matsuda

Yzelle Messinger

Zoe Miyashiro

Brooke Morita

Jennifer Moritaka

Haley Muramatsu

Mari Muramoto

Christopher Myers

Tiffany Nagano

Ethan Nakata

Tyler Nakazaki

Taylor Ohta

Taylor Omine

Graysen Oumi

Keon Sagara

Sakura Saito

Alyssa Santos

Timothy Shimizu

Iris Sim

Jett Takazawa

Josh Uchima

John Patrick Villalon

Kaylin Wee

Ella Williams

Kate Wong

Landon Yanagisawa

Hyatt Yoshioka

Mahalo to Our Schools

HYS is grateful to the many public, private, and home schools that play their part in helping to advance music’s role in their communities. The following schools are represented in our various HYS programs this year. We are deeply grateful to all the music educators and private music teachers whose expertise, encouragement, and support mean so much to our students. Every attempt has been made to publish a complete listing of schools for the 2022–2023 season, and we regret if any errors or omissions have been made.

Academy of the Holy Angels

Ahuimanu Elementary School

‘Aiea High School

‘Aikahi Elementary School

‘Aina Haina Elementary School

Ala Wai Elementary School

Aliamanu Middle School

Alvah Scott Elementary School

Bergen County Technical High School

Borel Middle School

Castle High School

Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School

Chinese American International School

Corona Del Mar High School

Crowden School

Fort Lee High School

Ft. Shafter Elementary School

Haha‘ione Elementary School

Hawaii Baptist Academy

Hawaii Tech Academy

Hawaiian Mission Academy

Highlands Intermediate School

Hōkūlani Elementary School

Homeschool

Honouliuli Middle School

Ho‘okele Elementary School

Huakailani School for Girls

‘Ilima Intermediate School

‘‘Iolani School

Island Pacific Academy

Jarett Middle School

Ka‘elepulu Elementary School

Kahala Elementary School

Kailua High School

Kailua Intermediate School

Kaimuki Christian School

Kaimuki Middle School

Kaiser High School

Kalaheo High School

Kalani High School

Kamehameha Schools

Kamilo‘iki Elementary School

Kapalama Elementary School

Kapolei High School

Kaua‘i High School

Kawānanakoa Middle School

King Intermediate School

Koko Head Elementary School

Koloa Elementary School

Laurel Springs

Leeward Community College

Le Jardin Academy

Lewis F. Cole Intermediate School

Lincoln Elementary School

Ma‘ema‘e Elementary School

Mary, Star of the Sea School

Mānoa Elementary School

Maryknoll School

McKinley High School

Mid-Pacific Institute

Mililani High School

Mililani Middle School

Moanalua High School

Moanalua Middle School

Myron B. Thompson Academy

Nānāikapono Elementary School

Niu Valley Middle School

Noelani Elementary School

Palolo Elementary School

Pauoa Elementary School

Pearl City High School

Pearl Harbor Christian Academy

Pine Lake Middle School

Pomona College

Punahou School

Radford High School

Roosevelt High School

Sacred Hearts Academy

Salt Lake Elementary School

San Domenico School

Science Medicine Academy at Deep Creek High School

SEEQS

St. Andrews Priory

St. Mark Lutheran School

Stevenson Middle School

The Pegasus School

Trinity Christian School

University Laboratory School

Waiākea High School

Waiākea Intermediate School

Wai‘anae High School

Waikīkī Elementary School

Waimanalo Intermediate School

Waipahu High School

Waipahu Intermediate School

Waldorf School

Washington Middle School

Wheeler Middle School

Wilson Elementary School

Message from Maestro Stepec

Dear Seniors,

Congratulations! You made it the end of your journey and are now about to set foot on a new adventure! What a truly exciting time in your life!

In reflecting on this moment, what comes to mind is something I have been mentioning in my own rehearsals this semester: be bold! Let me explain.

One of the things that I have come to marvel at in your work is your insatiable aptitude for progress. Each semester, we begin anew with different repertoire: new notes, new music, new ideas. You know quite well that first rehearsals seem to have an aura of incredulity about them: "how are we going to do this?! This is so hard!" We spend weeks and weeks getting used to this music and, as it inevitably does, the impossible becomes possible; music-making becomes marvelous. What changes in our learning process to make that happen is what perhaps is the most important lesson that I hope this experience has imparted—be bold. Once we can play something, once we have faith in ourselves and in what we can do, then that is when the fun happens: that is when we can begin taking risks in our music makingstretching phrases, exaggerating dynamic contrasts. This is when we can be bold. In music, boldness comes after hard work. But, in life, all you need to be in order to be bold is to be yourself. That's it. If you have experienced music-making that is exciting, spontaneous, energizing—as I know you have in the Hawaiʻi Youth Symphony— than I know that you understand that the best things in life can only come to you when you have complete faith in yourself. The world itself was not made by people who shy away from expressing themselves, who do not share their opinions and their gifts with the rest of humanity. Artists are not quiet. Creators do not hide. Be bold. Be yourself. Share your gifts and ideas without reservation. Trust me, you will thank yourself later for it.

Congratulations on your achievements and please stay in touch!

Mr. Joseph Stepec Director of Orchestral Activities & Conductor, Youth Symphony I

Message from Mrs. Ochi-Onishi

Dear Class of 2023 Seniors,

Congratulations and a huge mahalo to each of you for your dedication to making exceptional music together! The 2022 – 2023 Hawaii Youth Symphony Season is truly a memorable year with the return to in-person rehearsals and performances. This was something we were all waiting for, and our patience was finally rewarded. You are great role models who persevered through the pandemic and kept the music alive. Thank you for being an inspiration to our students!

I enjoyed working with everyone and I sincerely appreciated serving as one of your conductors. It was wonderful getting to know everyone as we worked together throughout the season. I am extremely proud of your musical growth and accomplishments! I hope your musical experiences have touched your hearts and will continue to inspire you to keep music in your lives. As you graduate and move on to your new journey, please know that we are all thinking about you and cheering you on. I look forward to your visits and hearing about your wonderful experiences! Best wishes and congratulations!

Musically Yours,

Mrs. Susan Ochi-Onishi HYS Symphony Program Conductor

Message from Mr. Masaki

Aloha Hawaii Youth Symphony (HYS) Seniors,

Iam writing to you today to express my admiration and gratitude for your dedication and passion for music. As you approach the end of your time as high school music students, I want to take a moment to reflect on the immense impact you have had on the world of music and the community around you.

Many of you have been with HYS for a number of years and although we all had to persevere through COVID 19, you still stuck with our modified HYS programs with rules that would be unheard of years ago. As a conductor and educator, regardless of if you were a student of mine or not, I am grateful for your service to HYS, and through HYS, the larger music community. I will never forget the patience and dedication all of you showed during one of the most difficult times in modern music history.

As you move on to the next phase of your life, I encourage you to continue pursuing your passion for music. Whether it be through performance, teaching, attending concerts, or just listening to music, your love of music can continue to enrich the lives of those around you. I have found that music has the power to connect people from all walks of life in ways I could never imagine, and I hope you are able to experience these same connections in your life.

To the seniors that I have had a chance to work with, I take away fond memories of rehearsals, concerts, and conversations that I have had with many of you. I have truly enjoyed working with all of you. To all the seniors, I wish you all the best in your future endeavors and I look forward to seeing the incredible things you will accomplish in your futures. Feel free to communicate with me at any time and good luck!!

Sincerely,

Mr. Elton Masaki HYS Symphony Program Conductor

Message from Ms. Watanabe

Dear Hawaii Youth Symphony Class of 2023,

As you end your senior year, whether you’ve been with HYS for one year or many, many years, I hope you have enjoyed your time with us, gotten to know other students from all around our state, and learned through the process of making music together! You are a resilient group of students who have been through a lot in your high school years. You’ve experienced having to do school online, events cancelled, and then things slowly opening back up again. Even though it was tough, you pushed through and didn’t give up, and we are very proud of you!

As you graduate, I hope music will always be a part of your life, and that your appreciation for music and the life lessons you’ve learned from creating and bring music to life stays with you. Even if you don’t continue playing your instrument (but I hope you do!), continue to be an advocate for music and music education so other students will get to have the same opportunities that you have had. Go to concerts, support local musicians, and the music programs you’ve been a part of so they can continue to thrive! May music always be part of your life in some way.

I feel extremely grateful to have gotten to know so many of you over the years and can’t wait to see where you go from here. I wish you the best in all your future endeavors and wherever you go from here. Remember that you will always be a part of HYS’s family and history!

Congratultions,

Ms. Hannah Watanabe HYS Symphony Program Conductor

Message from Mr. Fanning

Dear Class of 2023:

You did it! On behalf of the entire Hawaii Youth Symphony Ohana, we would like to extend our congratulations and best wishes for the future! We hope that you will continue to be consumers and advocates of music in your adult life, so that others can have the same experience as you. Although some of you will not pursue music as a career, the lessons of self-discipline, time management, humility, pride, confidence, expression, teamwork, and commitment will help you in whatever path you choose in life. It has been a pleasure working with some of you. Thank you for being the group that endured online learning, zoom rehearsals, and that helped HYS return to “normal.” We are all very proud of you! I would like to offer you my favorite quote from Ellison Onizuka, who was an astronaut from Hawai‘i in the 1980's:

“Your vision is not limited by what your eye can see, but by what your mind can imagine. Many things that you take for granted were considered unrealistic dreams by previous generations. If you accept these past accomplishments as commonplace then think of the new horizons that you can explore. From your vantage point, your education and imagination will carry you to places which we won’t believe possible. Make your life count— and the world will be a better place because you tried.“

Sincerely,

Mr. Wayne Fanning

HYS Symphony Program Conductor

Message from Mr. Taba

Dear HYS Senior Class of 2023,

On behalf of Mr. Howe, Mr. Okimoto and myself, congratulations on your tremendous final season with HYS. You have all come such a long way individually and as an ensemble. Everyone was rightfully impressed with the good work you did on the Na Mele recording of Over the Rainbow and we know how much time and effort you put into it. What a way to start the season!

Your Winter concert performance was outstanding and more importantly, your attitude, demeanor and focus during weekly rehearsals were the true reward for yourselves, your bandmates and for us as instructors. Thank you for that.

Continue to take all that you learn in music and apply it to your lives every day. We look forward to hearing about your future endeavors as you move on to the next chapters in your lives.

Sincerely,

Mr. Dean Taba

Mr. Ryan Howe

Mr. Noel Okimoto Jazz Program Conductors

Message from Mr. Uyehara

Aloha Class of 2023, Mahalo for your dedication, time, and talent that you have given to HYS. In return, I hope HYS has given you not only a sound music education, but also experiences and memories that will help guide your lives in years to come.

I have worked with many of you through the HYS Academy and private lessons, and am so happy to see your commitment to HYS through senior year. I’m proud of all of you! It’s not easy managing music, school, athletics, and all your other endeavors, while also devoting time to friends and family.

I have three pieces of advice to you, which I use in my daily life: Always remain true to yourself and what is in your heart. At the same time...

Never forget those who help and who have helped you along the way, especially your teachers, family, and friends. We are who we are partly because of those we have met in this journey of life. And finally...

Your favorite piece of music is what’s right in front of you. Focus and give 100 percent to the activity or the person you’re with, at the moment. You’ll develop deeper connections and enjoy life more when you live in the moment, with the right attitude.

Congratulations, love, and music,

Mr. Chad Uyehara Academy Program Director & Conductor

Class of 2023

Sayleen Aglanao Youth Symphony II / Oboe / Waipahu High School

Playing the oboe has turned out to be more of an experience than I made it out to be. Creating music was always an emotional outlet and became a new form of connection with others. At Waipahu High School, I found a passion for music and hope to inspire my classmates to push themselves to become better musicians and better people. I plan to attend college at the University of Hawai‘i as a psychology major in hopes of becoming a family lawyer. I originally tried out for Hawaii Youth Symphony my junior year but did not meet the requirements for any ensemble. However, I tried out again in my senior year and made it as principal oboist of YSII. The Hawaii Youth Symphony has allowed me to form lifelong friendships and given me new experiences getting to play with strings and students from different schools.

Throughout these six years of band and music, I owe it to Mr. Fu, Mrs. Ochi-Onishi, and Mr. Uyeda for the reason I am still pursuing music today. I thank these teachers for the guidance, support, and inspiration that keeps me going. I also thank the Hawaii Youth Symphony community for all of the fond memories and weekly laughs.

Archer Aloiau Youth Symphony I / Trombone / Kalani High School

Ijoined HYS in my freshman year. I was admitted into YSII, which at the time surprised me. I enjoyed my time playing in that symphony because of the new friends I made, the difficult repertoire we rehearsed, and the fact that we had the opportunity to get all dressed up for the concert. I loved spending time with all my friends, both at rehearsals and during concerts. I was devastated when COVID hit because I had been looking forward to playing the next concert. I did not participate in HYS during COVID because the element of quality time with friends was not present to me in that environment. However, I did join back in my junior year, in which I made it into YSI! I was thrilled because it had been my dream to be in the top symphony orchestra at HYS. Playing huge orchestral works this and last year was beyond fun, and I am so grateful to be making music with such talented musicians. The HYS program has taught me so much in terms of music and cohesiveness. I wish the same great experiences for incoming HYS musicians and hope that my fellow graduates and I continue to share our love and passion for music.

Pyotr Alvarado

Youth Symphony I / Cello / Homeschool

Pyotr Alvarado has been playing the cello for eight years since he was eight years old and joined the Hawaii Youth Symphony’s Academy Strings when he was nine years old playing both violin and cello. Pyotr plans on pursuing a degree in cello performance for his college career and traveling the world performing with his instrument. Pyotr has won numerous achievements, his most celebrated was winning the Nā Hōkū ‘Ōpio young stars competition in 2022 performing with the Hawai’i Symphony Orchestra. Besides playing with the HYS, Pyotr also plays with the University of Hawai’i Symphony Orchestra as a community member and participates in chamber activities. Pyotr has enjoyed his first and last season with Youth Symphony I and has been extremely grateful to make many friends and learn from outstanding instructors. Pyotr hopes to become an ambassador for the Hawai’i Youth Symphony and help promote the message “Make music a right, not a privilege”.

Leo Bala

Youth Symphony I / Cello / Moanalua High School

Music only became a part of my life around fifth grade when I wanted something to spend my free time in, but I wish I could've discovered my love for it earlier. Now I can say that I’m so happy to spend my senior year among other talented musicians. I enjoy performing because of how much joy and smiles it brings and I hope to do the same in the future. After high school, I plan to pursue dental hygiene at Pacific University while still keeping music a part of my life.

Samantha Barayuga

Youth Symphony I / Bass / Moanalua High School

Oh, HYS. I didn’t know what the environment was like. I didn’t know what the music was like. I did realize it was a bunch of students who love to play music coming together and I wanted to be a part of that. Playing in HYS for the past three years, I learned that I really have the ability to achieve what I want when I have opportunities like HYS are given to me. I discovered the real and deeper love I have for music thanks to HYS and orchestra in general. The connections and environment formed in HYS is a one-in-a-million opportunity and I don’t know where life would’ve taken me without HYS.

In addition to music being a part of my life, I also dance hula. I’ve been dancing since I was three years old with Hālau Nā Maka O Ka Lauaʻe. Hula is such a big part of me, and I love the fact that it ties in so closely with music. When I dance, it’s more than just telling stories; I feel the music and express it through my motions. This is also how I play in orchestra. I love to feel the music and I love to move while I play. There’s nothing like what hula and music has done for me, and I can’t wait to see how they continue to shape me in my future.

Micah Branner

Concert Orchestra / Bass / Kaimuki Christian School

My journey with HYS began when I heard Mr. Randy Wong play the theme to Jaws on a Double Bass. That’s where the fire ignited. Since that fateful day in 5th grade, I have been in love with music. HYS has been a huge reason for that love, journeying from BSE to CO and enjoying every bit of it. One area of life that HYS has especially helped me grow in is discipline. I’ll admit I used to just show up from week to week hoping that this would be enough to sound good. Needless to say, that didn’t go over well with my parents or conductors. They held me accountable and pushed me to do better. With their encouragement and the support of my peers, I have grown to enjoy practice and have become much more disciplined in many different areas of my life. After I graduate from high school, I will be headed to Southern California to attend Biola University with a major in History and a minor in Music. I am a runner, a swimmer, an Eagle Scout, and, of course, a Double Bassist. I will forever be grateful to HYS for all the experiences and memories I have been able to have. Thank you all.

Maggie Chen

Youth Symphony I / Viola / Mililani High School

Being a part of YSI and YSII has taught me the importance of patience, discipline, and of course, practice. HYS continues to inspire and fascinate me with the endless magic of music with my peers and conductors instilling a sense of passion that I haven't experienced anywhere else. I began playing viola at Mililani in the third grade, moving up through Mililani Middle, and eventually Mililani High where I currently am principal violist. HYS will always be an unforgettable experience, and I am so grateful to the program for helping me grow my musical career.

Sinjin Cho-Tupua

eYouth Symphony II / Viola / Kamehameha Schools

Even though I only joined the Hawaii Youth Symphony two years ago, there is no doubt that it has transformed my life in many ways. As a viola player for both YSI and YSII, I was able to grow more as both a musician and an individual, learning how to work together with a large ensemble to achieve our goals, all while meeting new faces from all sorts of schools every rehearsal. In addition to HYS, I also participate on Kamehameha's math team, of which I am the president, as well as both varsity canoe paddling and air riflery. A couple of my favorite subjects include mathematics, English literature, and chemistry. For my post-high school plans, I look forward to attending a four-year college (still waiting for decision letters) where I hope to pursue a degree in either applied mathematics or chemistry, and minor in English literature. While in college, I'll continue to pursue my personal interests, especially performing music. My experience with HYS has given me the inspiration to continue playing music, and I appreciate the conductors, concert parents, and my fellow students for accompanying me along the way. Thank you, HYS for these amazing few years.

Ohriyon Cuffie Youth Symphony II / Trombone / McKinley High School

When I decided to join band at the beginning of my middle school career, I was not expecting the countless opportunities and friendships that came along the way. The sheer impact that not only band, but music as a whole has affected my life can't be fully expressed with words. I am so very thankful for programs like YSII, because they give me an opportunity to peer into the world of music, as seen by other musicians, and make connections with them in a much more meaningful way. Despite YSII only occurring during a limited time period of my life, I can guarantee that the many lessons taught during that time will help me further my musical career far into the future. As for my future endeavors, I plan on attending the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, where I will be studying for a major in Creative Media.

Prince Joshua Dionido

Youth Symphony II / Flute / Waipahu High School

As a high school senior, I joined HYS because I wanted to explore more kinds of music and see what it’s like to be a part of an orchestra. Being a part of the Hawaii Youth Symphony has been an amazing experience. I am grateful for the people that I’ve met here for making rehearsals fun and showing me how impactful music can be.

I am also grateful for my friends in band who’ve been a huge support which led to my participation in the OBDA Solo/Ensemble and Select Band. I especially want to thank Mr. Fu for encouraging me to put myself out there and take on new experiences. This school year became more memorable than I had imagined, and I’m glad that I get to share this experience with them.

Juan Fangon

Youth Symphony I / Trumpet / Kailua High School

Music has become a big chapter in my life. I started in seventh grade at Kailua intermediate, where I chose to play the trumpet. I ended up sticking with music and eventually was led to the Hawaii Youth Symphony, where I became part of YSI. Though this is my only year in HYS, I am glad to have joined. Through this program, I have been able to work with many talented musicians and create amazing music and memories. One of my favorite memories was recording for the Na Mele Program where I got to play a solo in Over the Rainbow. At Kailua High School, I actively participate in the music program. I am in the Concert Band, Jazz Band, Marching Band, and the Brass Quintet which I formed. In the near future, I plan to attend the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa where I will study music education. As a future educator, I plan to provide students an outlet where they can be able to express themselves freely through music, much like what was provided to me. I would like to thank all my friends, family, and music educators for their unconditional support throughout my musical journey, it wouldn’t be possible without you all.

Jeny Gorospe

Youth Symphony I / Oboe / Pearl City High School

Ifirst started my HYS journey in 2019 as an oboist in YSII, along with my first year of PMI in the summer of 2019. I am currently in YSI and have participated in PMI for the past two years.

During my time in HYS, I realized that there's a big jump between playing in a symphony, and playing in a wind ensemble. Over time, I began to really appreciate and love the music that I make with the symphony and enjoy the pure emotions that we provide for all audiences.

While participating in the program, I learned that music is a way to express emotion to our audiences. For example, in our repertoire for YSI this year, we have pieces that are fierce and powerful, but we also have pieces that are mournful and sorrowful. I'm grateful to be able to produce music that translates these emotions through beautiful harmonies and phrases to my friends and family.

When I was younger, I used to dance hula. Hula was a way of telling a story through visual motions and movement. Compared to being a musician, I get to tell a story and bring emotion through my instrument along with being in an ensemble or symphony. I enjoyed growing up being able sway an audience without having to use my voice.

Ylang Guo

Youth Symphony I / Violin / ‘Iolani School

Ylang Guo started playing the violin at age three with her older sister. She never thought it would become so much more than a cool hobby. She has been playing with the Hawaii Youth Symphony for 10 years and is excited to end her HYS career playing the first movement of Sibelius Concerto with YSI.

Ylang performed with the Kamuela Philharmonic Orchestra, Maui Chamber Orchestra, ‘Iolani Orchestra, and Honolulu Festival Orchestra. After winning the 2018 MTNA Junior String Competition's state round, Ylang placed alternate in the Southwest Regional Competition. She was named a finalist at the Osaka International Music Competition and won first prize at the Hawai‘i Music Teachers Association Competition five times.

Ylang appeared on National Public Radio’s "From The Top" Show in January 2021. She has attended the Meadowmount School of Music for five summers and participated in the Hawai‘i Chamber Music Festival and Pacific Music Institute.

Ylang loves running cross country, reading historical fiction, and Koko the family lovebird very much. Ylang would like to thank her family and her teacher Mr. Iggy Jang for supporting her musical endeavors. Ylang hopes to study biology and violin performance in college and is genuinely grateful for all the amazing musicians and experiences she has encountered through HYS.

Blake Hironaka

Youth Symphony II / Trumpet / Kaua‘i High School

My journey with HYS began in the eighth grade and had a pause until it continued this year. Although I've only been in HYS for a short two seasons compared to others, HYS has still had a great impact on my life. Being a student from Kauai, HYS gave me an experience that I would’ve never have gotten anywhere on Kauai. I would’ve never been able to play with such talented musicians from so many different schools. More importantly, I would’ve never been able to experience the passion that I experienced in HYS. All the musicians that I’ve had the privilege of playing with during my time in HYS have all had an extreme passion for music. I could see all the hard work and practice they have put into their instruments. This work translated into rehearsal and I knew everyone around me was trying as hard if not harder than I was. This made every rehearsal so enjoyable and a fun experience trying to create the best music I could with a group of great musicians. I would like to thank all the wonderful conductors and musicians that I’ve had the pleasure of playing with in HYS. The memories we all have made will surely stick with me for years to come.

Kenneth Hironaka Youth Symphony II / Flute / Kaua‘i High School

Ihave been playing the flute since I was seven years old, and have participated in HYS for two seasons. Once in eighth grade and now as a senior. Even though I have changed a lot as a musician since my first time in HYS, I continue to benefit from playing in the Symphony Program. As a student from Kauai, HYS has been an amazing opportunity to play music with other student musicians on a level that I would never be able to play with on Kauai. Being exposed to musicians at a higher level of playing has really helped me improve greatly. Participating in HYS has helped me also grow as a person. HYS has allowed me to make connections with people I would have never met otherwise. It has truly been a very unique and special experience that would be hard to replicate anywhere else. After graduating high school, I plan on going to college and continue playing music while studying Computer Engineering. Lastly, to any outer-island students reading this, I highly encourage you to audition. Auditioning has helped me improve my playing and you never know; you might just get in!

Macie Ho Youth Symphony II / Percussion / Roosevelt High School

Being a part the Hawaii Youth Symphony has been a rewarding experience. I want to thank my family for their continuous support especially my dad’s constant guidance. Lastly, I would like to thank Mr. Fanning, Ms. Watanabe, Ms. O, and Mr. Masaki.

Madeline Hodge

Youth Symphony II / Violin / Punahou School

Maddy began playing music from an early age of four on the piano and learned to play the violin at age 11. She now plays violin in YSII, the Punahou Symphony Orchestra, and the Punahou Chamber Music program. She has always loved the opportunity to make music with others, and HYS offers her the perfect opportunity to play with others who love to do the same. Besides making music, Maddy enjoys spending time surfing with her friends, reading, or doing debate tournaments with the Punahou debate team. She is also a member of the Punahou Mock Trial team. Maddy plans to attend Stanford University in the fall as an international relations major. She thanks everyone who has guided her in the three years she has played with HYS for making her experience fun and enlightening.

Trevor Hyun

Youth Symphony I / Viola / Kaiser High School

Trevor has been surrounded by music before he can even remember. After beginning piano lessons in preschool, Trevor began his journey in the Hawaii Youth Symphony in the 5th grade. Starting in the Beginning String Ensemble and Clubhouse Band, he chose to learn the viola and alto saxophone, respectively. After joining the Concert String Orchestra, Trevor auditioned for Concert Orchestra in 7th grade. He then played in YSII for two years, playing principal violist in the second, and has been playing in YSI for the past two years. Trevor currently attends Kaiser High School and is a member of the Marching Band, Wind Ensemble, and Symphony Orchestra playing the violin. In addition to music, Trevor is the President of Kaiser Key Club and enjoys cooking, weightlifting, and going out with friends. Trevor hopes to attend a mainland university (TBD), where he plans to major in piano performance while continuing his studies on the viola and saxophone. Trevor would like to thank Ms. Womack, Dr. Yamashita, Mr. Fanning, and Mr. Bataluna for all their teachings and support over the years, Mr. Stepec for an amazing two years of YSI, and all the HYS conductors and staff that made this experience so memorable.

Jisu Jang

Youth Symphony II / Tuba / Kaiser High School

Since middle school, music has always been a part of my life. Through constant practice and rehearsals, I have grown as a musician which led to my achievement of being able to participate in YSII. Participating in music has taught me many life skills such as being disciplined and hardworking which led me to other endeavors in sports. The skills I learned helped me succeed in football, track and field, and JROTC. After high school, I hope to pursue higher education in college to hopefully become an Air Force pilot and continue my passion for music as well.

Jonah Kashiwamura Youth Symphony II / Clarinet / Moanalua High School

This is my first year participating in the Hawaii Youth Symphony program performing in YSII. I am grateful for the opportunity to have performed alongside a group of talented musicians. Music has taught me the importance of time management as I balance my schoolwork and practicing my instruments. It has taught me that while we may not all get along individually, playing music can be something that unifies the heart. I am thankful to have two wonderful mentors, Mrs. Melanie Yukumoto (clarinet) and Mrs. Christine Suehisa-Jang (piano). I appreciate their patience and support over the years as they have taught me about my instruments and the world of music. I hope to continue my musical journey as I pursue a civil engineering degree at a yet to be determined four-year college.

Hinano Kawaiaea

Youth Symphony I / Violin / Punahou School

Hinano always looked forward to the weekends. Not only to take a break from school but to create music in the Hawaii Youth Symphony. She can’t remember a weekend without this joy in her life. Hinano started her HYS journey back in the Academy Program’s Concert String Orchestra as a small third grader. She now plays in Youth Symphony I, where she ends her senior year playing as principal second violin. Hinano has had the privilege of collaborating and building relationships with other incredible musicians and mentors and is grateful to have grown in this amazing program and community. In addition to playing in the symphony, Hinano plays in the Punahou Symphony Orchestra and the Punahou Chamber Music Program. Outside music, she dances hula, tutors students, and does glassblowing. After high school, she hopes to pursue a degree in business while continuing music. Hinano is extremely grateful to her family for their unwavering support throughout her musical journey. She would also like to recognize Dr. Jonas Carlson, Mr. Craig Young, Mrs. Helen Chao-Casano, Mr. Joseph Stepec, Mr. Chad Uyehara, and Dr. Helen Liu, who have all positively impacted her as a musician. Lastly, she would like to thank her private instructor, Dr. Nikki Ebisu, for her wonderful guidance over the past 13 years.

Irene Kim Youth Symphony I / Horn / Roosevelt High School

Iam one of three in my family who decided to play the French Horn. I initially hated the French Horn. However, experiencing the Hawaii Youth Symphony concerts my two sisters performed in changed my opinion. The professional-grade orchestral pieces performed by high schoolers shook my passion for music and it is for the same reason that I decided to become a member of HYS. I started in CO in the ninth grade and worked my way up to YSI. HYS has allowed me to connect with individuals that share my enthusiasm for music and to produce meaningful music together. As I move from chapter to chapter in my life, I hope my pursuit of and passion for music will be the one running theme. I am genuinely thankful for the people in my life who have supported me through this journey and have molded me into the musician I am today. Thank you to my parents who sacrifice the peace of their home for the sound of the French Horn. Thank you to Ms. Marie Lickwar for all the wonderful guidance over the last six years. Last but not least, thank you to my sisters for always being there and helping me every step of the way.

Erika Kwee Youth Symphony I / Violin / Punahou School

Erika Kwee began playing the violin at the age of four when she joined the Punahou Suzuki Violin Program under the instruction of Ms. Helen Higa. Erika has been a member of HYS for eight years, entering in the Concert String Orchestra. In ninth grade, she joined Youth Symphony I and has fond memories of their trip to Kauai. Currently, Erika is concertmaster of Youth Symphony I and the Punahou Symphony. She is a member of the Punahou Chamber Music Program and has participated in several music programs, including the Suzuki Method World Convention in Matsumoto Japan, Japan-Seattle Suzuki Institute, Indiana University Summer String Academy, New England Conservatory Summer Orchestra Institute, Pacific Music Institute, and Hawaii Chamber Music Festival. Erika is a member of Punahou’s Debate and Math Teams, works as an ocean lifeguard for the City & County, and is a teaching assistant for physics. In her free time, she enjoys surfing and sewing. Erika plans to study mechanical engineering and music at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. She would like to thank her violin teachers, Ms. Helen Higa and Ms. Maile Reeves, and YSI conductors, Mr. Joseph Stepec and Mr. Alexander Pena, who have cultivated her passion for music. She is also grateful to her sister, Lauren, and her parents, Drs. Leilani Kaanehe and Sandi Kwee, for their support and encouragement throughout the years.

Jonathan Kwon Youth Symphony I / Viola / Punahou School

Music has always been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. From smashing random chords on my keyboard when I was five to playing the Walton Viola Concerto in my senior year, I've grown up alongside my instruments. And while solo playing has always been fun, I've realized that there's nothing quite like being a part of something larger, grander, and as magnificent as a full orchestra. Ranging from the precise bowing of the violins to the deep-seated rumble of the percussion section, I feel truly immersed whenever I'm with YSI. As a part of the HYS family for the better part of four years, I've learned the importance of discipline and teamwork in whatever I'm doing. After all, dozens of individual musicians must work together to make sure that the 'music' they're playing really is music. Although playing music will always be a part of my life, it's just one aspect of what makes me, me. I'm a culmination of so many other hobbies and passions, whether that be my budding cassette collection, my love of fountain pens and writing, or screaming at (I mean 'calmly discussing with') my opponents in the middle of a heated round of debate. I look forward to pursuing these interests well into college, graduate school, and wherever else my life takes me.

Celina Lim

Youth Symphony I / Cello / Punahou School

Celina Lim began playing the cello at age six with Nancy Masaki. She began her HYS journey in 3rd grade with the Concert String Orchestra and is now the principal cellist of YSI. HYS has taught her commitment, communication, passion, and most importantly, what ohana is. Through HYS, she has met numerous conductors, mentors, and friends who she will cherish forever. Celina made her solo orchestral debut with the Kamuela Philharmonic at age eleven after winning the Madeline Schatz-Harris Concerto Competition. She has won numerous awards over the years in the Hawaii Music Teachers Association/Music Teachers National Association competitions. She has also won the Charleston International Music Competition, various Great Composers Competitions, and is a Morning Music Club award recipient. This past summer, she traveled to New York and Florida as principal cellist of the National Youth Orchestra (NYO2) by Carnegie Hall; she was recently accepted into the NYO-USA program for summer 2023. She is currently the principal cellist of Punahou’s Symphony Orchestra and has been a member of Punahou’s chamber music program since 7th grade. Outside of music, she leads Punahou’s Teens in Medicine Club and Student Advocates for Gender Equality club. She would like to thank her parents and sisters for their constant love and encouragement. Additionally, she sends her warmest mahalo to Nancy Masaki for always being her biggest supporter.

Michael Lockwood

Advanced Contemporary Ensemble / Electric Guitar / Punahou School

When I first joined HYS, I wanted to find a place where I could indulge in my love for playing my favorite genres of music with other musicians. Looking back, I am so glad I joined, due to the friendships I have fostered and the time I have been able to spend jamming with other amazing musicians. I have always been a firm believer that music is an excellent learning medium, and now more than ever, I can experience its effects. HYS has helped me develop so many skills, such as finding confidence in myself and my abilities or collaborating with others in ways I'd never dreamed of before. As I move on to new horizons and foreign coasts, I'll take these experiences, lessons, and memories with me as a memento of what music has done for me throughout the years. Though I do not know for sure where I will be going to college to study marine biology, I know my love for music will never cease, no matter where I am. To everyone at HYS, thank you for the good times and, most importantly, the fantastic music.

Teo Lubecke

Youth Symphony I / Violin / Kalani High School

Istarted playing the violin in sixth grade, and I quickly fell in love. In eighth grade, I began taking private lessons which led me to audition for HYS for the first time, and I joined the Concert Orchestra. I went on to audition and participate in HYS during the following years in Youth Symphony II and Youth Symphony I. I also participated in the Pacific Music Institute Orchestra program and Solo and String Quartet program which gave me my first experience with chamber music. My time in HYS has been invaluable because it has provided me with friendships and experiences that can only come from an organization like this. I was able to meet people who are passionate about the same thing as I am, and I was able to participate in making music at a high level. I also have had such incredible mentors from HYS who have shaped me into the musician I am today, including Ms. Joan Doike, Mr. Ignace Jang, and Mr. Joseph Stepec. I plan to major in violin performance, and HYS definitely helped me to get on the path to realize that I wanted to pursue music.

Hailey Mashino Concert Orchestra / Oboe / Kalani High School

Ifirst joined HYS in my freshman year, but then COVID hit and I wasn't able to join in my other two years of high school. I wasn't going to join in my senior year, but I was asked and given the opportunity to do it for my last year. I enjoy HYS because of the people and the ability to play music together.

Jacob Matsuda

Youth Symphony I / Violin / ‘Iolani School

Jacob started playing in the Hawaii Youth Symphony in the fifth grade. He joined CSO following his older brother’s footsteps and eventually made his way to YSI. Jacob is also a member of the ‘Iolani School Orchestra and Chamber Groups. Playing in the Hawaii Youth Symphony has exposed Jacob to some very difficult pieces which helped strengthen his appreciation for music. After high school, Jacob wants to major in mechanical engineering.

Zoe Miyashiro Youth Symphony II / Tuba / Myron B. Thompson Academy

Zoe entered the musical scene at the ripe old age of eleven years old. Somehow, her teacher thought it was a great idea to give the 4'11, 68 pound girl a giant pipe, otherwise known as the tuba, and Zoe must've agreed, because she's stuck with it for six whole years. She’s glad she did too, because if she hadn’t, she would’ve missed out on amazing opportunities to travel and perform in front of various audiences alongside her talented friends and classmates. Music will forever be a major (haha) part of her life.

Brooke Morita

Youth Symphony I / Flute / Pearl City High School

Ever since seventh grade, I was very passionate about music. I had heard about the Hawaii Youth Symphony through a family member, and I was eager to audition. In my freshman year, I got into CO, then moved up to YSI in my junior year. Playing in an orchestra ensemble where I could meet fellow musicians from other schools and build bonds has definitely been a contributing factor for my love for music. Being a part of the Hawaii Youth Symphony has given me many amazing opportunities to grow as a musician and as a person. I have learned numerous lessons from HYS, such as teamwork, discipline, patience, commitment, and accountability. I am incredibly grateful for the guidance and support of my teachers, friends, and especially my parents. After graduation, I plan on majoring in Radiology. I hope to still have time for music in the future as well.

Jennifer Moritaka

Youth Symphony I / Horn / Kalani High School

Ijoined the HYS program in my freshman year and started in YSII. Since then, I was able to join YSI for my junior and senior years. Though my experience was hindered due to the pandemic, I will always treasure the lessons and friendships I made along the way. Playing orchestral music was something I was not very familiar with, and I honestly did not like it very much. However, learning and perfecting the music with talented musicians from across the island felt so rewarding and exhilarating, that it convinced me to re-audition for HYS each year. My favorite thing about HYS was the fact that I could play with a different group of people every year. Building these friendships made me feel connected with the music community, and it was fun making new friends outside of my school. HYS challenged me as a musician but at the same time taught me the beauty of various types of music. I have learned to love every aspect of music and I am truly thankful for everyone who has been a part of my journey.

Haley Muramatsu

Youth Symphony I / Clarinet / Punahou School

Haley has been a clarinet player in HYS for four years. She started with CO in the ninth grade, finally playing with YSI her senior year. She greatly enjoyed the opportunity to challenge herself with the interesting music repertoire and to play alongside a group of dedicated musicians. At Punahou School, Haley is a member of the Wind Ensemble. In addition to playing clarinet, Haley is part of the varsity tennis team and enjoys all things art and design. She will be attending New York University, majoring in Interactive Media Arts.

Mari Muramoto

Youth Symphony II / Violin / Mid-Pacific Institute

Ihave been a part of the Hawaii Youth Symphony’s YSII ever since ninth grade. My love for music has grown ever since I started playing the violin at the age of three. Along with HYS, I have also played at my school's orchestra for five years and with my private teacher for 14. What I love about the Hawaii Youth Symphony is being around other musicians who share the same passion that I have. I feel blessed to be a part of such a well-developed and accomplished organization and wish I still had more years to participate in it. Outside of HYS, I'm the team captain of the Mid-Pacific Varsity Judo team and work hard academically. I strive to attend a college in California while majoring in Computer Science.

I've learned many valuable life lessons in HYS that I will definitely apply to my future ahead of me, one being to challenge myself. The music we play is definitely not easy, so with continuous practice and determination, I overcame these challenges with confidence. I often feel discouraged with my progression and lose motivation to move further. The support I receive from this orchestra encourages me to go past my limits.

I'm thankful for the amazing conductors, staff, and musicians that I've met over the past five years and will always remember these experiences. Thank you, Hawaii Youth Symphony!

Christopher Myers

Concert Orchestra / Violin / Mid-Pacific Institute

Christopher started his musical journey in first grade after hearing his sister play both piano and violin. He started playing piano first, and eventually began playing the violin shortly afterwards. As he was in a military family, he moved from Virginia to Okinawa and eventually to Hawaii, playing in many orchestras along the way. After moving to Hawaii, he took lessons with Dr. Nikki Ebisu, and he joined HYS in the seventh grade. At Mid-Pacific, Christopher is a part of the Advanced Orchestra, where he currently plays first violin. He likes to swim, surf and build model kits. He plans to attend college on the East coast, majoring in business and continuing his pursuit of music. Christopher would like to thank HYS for allowing him to become a better musician and person, compelling him to work on his time management, discipline, and musicality while meeting new people; Dr. Nikki Ebisu, Mr. Michael Lim, and Dr. Thomas Yee for teaching and supporting him; his parents for encouraging him and coming to his concerts; and his sister who helped him widen his musical tastes and motivate him to become a better musician.

Tiffany Nagano

Youth Symphony I / Oboe / Kalani High School

This is Tiffany Nagano’s second year of being a part of YSI. She is so grateful for the many opportunities HYS has given her, helping her to grow into the musician she is today. In her years with this program, she has been able to be challenged and work with such amazing and talented faculty and peers. From her singing, dancing, and acting, HYS has been able to be applied in all aspects of her life outside and inside of performing and she will never forget all the valuable experiences she was able to take part in. She would like to thank Mr. Stepec, Mr. Penã, and HYS staff and concert parents for an exciting final year. She would also like to extend her gratitude especially to Mr. Dennis Kaneshiro and Mrs. Susan Ochi-Onishi for mentoring her and motivating her to make it this far with her oboe studies. Thank you so much for all the support, she hopes you enjoy the concert!

Ethan Nakata

Youth Symphony II / Clarinet / Hawaii Baptist Academy

Music has always been a major part of my life. I am grateful for the countless lessons and hours of practice that have culminated in my achievement of a seat in YSII. In addition to teaching me the importance of discipline and self-motivation, being a member of HYS has given me the opportunity to meet other like-minded individuals who value music as much as I do. I would like to thank HYS for this opportunity to make music with other talented musicians. When I go to college, I’m planning to major in international business while pursuing my passion for music.

Tyler Nakazaki

Youth Symphony II / Trumpet / Kalani High School

Ijoined YSII in my freshman year and immediately fell in love with the hardworking, focused environment. The people in my section were fun and supportive musicians that made the rehearsals even more enjoyable. The musicians were all driving to become better people and performers, pushing me to strive higher than I was. Now in my senior year, I am the principal trumpeter in YSII, and looking back I was glad that I had this program to allow me to grow into a better musician. Although I am not majoring in music, I still want to pursue my music passion as a side hobby. I hope that more aspiring musicians will come to join the program and learn more from the amazing students and conductors to flourish into musicians, able to move people with their sound.

Taylor Ohta

eYouth Symphony I / Viola / Moanalua High School

Music has been in Taylor’s life since she was five. She started off with piano, then transitioned to voice and musical theater. In fifth grade, her viola journey started off in the HYS Summer Academy Program. Since then, she has made her way up to YSI and is grateful for the amazing opportunities this program has given her. She has taken private lessons from Ms. Sheryl Shohet for seven years. At Moanalua High School, she is principal chair for the Symphony Orchestra.

Upon graduating, Taylor plans to major in Elementary Education and minor in Psychology in hopes that she will continue her education and get a master’s degree in School Psychology. She wishes to continue her passion for music in college and participate in a university’s string ensemble or orchestra. HYS has taught her the importance of teamwork and how music can positively impact one’s life. She’d like to thank the Hawaii Youth Symphony for the great memories and experiences they gave her.

Taylor Omine

eYouth Symphony II / Flute / Mililani High School

Making music has been a large part of my life since middle school. I've enjoyed having the opportunity to meet new people through other ensembles such as YSII. Being a member of YSII has allowed me to reconnect and meet with new people from other schools and expand my musical abilities. YSII has also helped me grow as a person, fostering traits like self-discipline and determination. In addition to participating in YSII, I have participated in Mililani High School's Symphonic Band, "Trojan" Marching Band, Indoor Winds, and Symphony Orchestra. Throughout my high school career, I have participated in PMI, OBDA Solo & Ensemble, OBDA Select Band, Central District Honor Band, and the Hawaii State Music Competition. Some clubs and organizations I have been a part of include: the National Honor Society, Japanese National Honor Society, Blood Drive Committee, Student Alliance for Mental Health and Wellness, Tri-M, Wah Ngai (Chinese Lion Dance), the Hawaii Flute Society, MHS's Tennis team, and MHS's Esports team. After graduating high school, I hope to attend Seattle University and major in physics. Once I have earned my undergraduate degree, I would like to attend graduate school in biomedical engineering. I also plan on continuing with music through participation in community ensembles.

Graysen Oumi Youth Symphony I / Trombone / Castle High School

Graysen has been a member of HYS for four years. He currently attends James B. Castle High School and is a member of the marching band, jazz band, and concert band. Graysen reluctantly started his musical journey at King Intermediate School under the direction of Mr. Nicholas Au. Despite his hesitation to choose band as his only elective, he quickly fell in love with the trombone and the endless possibilities of expression through music. Graysen greatly improved his trombone playing and practice habits by taking private lessons from Mr. Joseph Nakamoto.

In the coming years, he plans to major in Computer Science at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa while continuing band at the college level. Graysen would like to thank his parents for their constant support and tolerating his horrendous practice sessions, Mr. Nakamoto for years of endless encouragement and patience, Mr. Au for constantly challenging him and raising his ambitions, and Mr. Alconcel for teaching him the importance of only practicing on the days that he eats.

Keon Sagara Youth Symphony I / Viola / Punahou School

Keon’s musical career began in Punahou School’s fifth grade orchestra. He eventually joined YSII in 2018 and moved to YSI the next year. He wanted to do HYS mainly because his older brother, who had already been in the program, seemed to enjoy it a lot. Eventually, Keon fell in love with the process of music making and decided to take it seriously. Through HYS, Keon has forged countless friendships with his orchestra friends, which he will take with him throughout the rest of his life. Aside from YSI, he also participates in the UH Symphony Orchestra, Punahou Symphony, and Vaught Memorial quartet. When Keon isn’t practicing, rehearsing, or writing music, he enjoys crocheting, tennis, cooking, and drinking boba. At the time of writing this, Keon has just finished auditioning for music schools, where he plans to continue his career in viola performance, along with a major in economics or philosophy. He would like to thank his brother for constantly pushing him to improve in music, his parents and grandparents for their unconditional support, Maestro Joseph Stepec for his everlasting encouragement and enthusiasm in music, and his teacher of six years, Craig Young, for his wisdom, insight, and humor. Keon will dearly miss HYS and the friends he made and looks forward to his future in lifelong music making.

Sakura Saito

Youth Symphony I / Violin / Kalani High School

Music has occupied a large portion of my life and kept me company since I was young. With my mother being a piano teacher and my brother also playing the violin, it was their influence that motivated me to begin lessons and eventually audition for HYS in sixth grade. From there, I began my journey as a musician in an ensemble, and I joined YSII in eighth grade and YSI the following year. HYS has become an irreplaceable part of my life that brought me where I currently am. Being in an ensemble with like-minded people who hold a passion for music brought me joy and comfort, and it is in this program that I have learned countless life-lessons that I still hold very dear to myself. Resilience and determination—these concepts gave me the motivation to continue practicing during the pandemic when social interactions and contact with the outside world seldom happened. HYS has brought joy to my life, and I truly enjoyed partaking in the creation of music.

Alyssa Santos

Youth Symphony II / Violin / Roosevelt High School

Alyssa Santos is a senior at Roosevelt High School. Her post-high school goals consist of attending the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa in the fall of 2023, majoring in Public Health. After college, she’ll work to get accepted into Physician Assistant Program at the MEDEX - Northwest Hawaii Campus PA Program in Kona on the Big Island.

Timothy Shimizu

Youth Symphony I / Trombone / Hawaii Baptist Academy

Istarted my HYS journey as a freshman in CO, and eventually worked my way up to YSI in my junior year. I joined HYS seeking the opportunity to make music together with other like-minded, music-impassioned students; what I experienced was beyond what I imagined. For one, I had the greatest time meeting some of the most wonderful people (some of which I forged valuable friendships with) while creating phenomenal music with them. Furthermore, I learned valuable life skills in the nature of teamwork — and the best execution of it — from the fantastic HYS conductors I played under that I’ll be able to apply to any future group work setting beyond my time here. Aside from attending the youth symphony, I play the euphonium for the school wind ensemble, as well as the drum set for my church and school’s worship services. I also enjoy going fishing and playing tennis with my friends in my leisure time. After graduating from high school, I will be attending Princeton University in the fall and plan to major in Chemistry. I hope to continue my musical journey by participating in the university’s marching band and orchestra/wind ensemble.

Iris Sim

Youth Symphony I / Flute / Punahou School

For the past ten years, Iris has been studying flute and piccolo under the guidance of Sabrina Saiki-Mita. She started learning the piano at the age of four, and she soon fell in love with everything about classical music. By high school, Iris had picked up a total of five instruments: flute, piano, violin, guitar, and bass, with the flute being her main focus.

Iris has won the 2018 MTNA Junior Woodwind Hawaii State Representative, 2020 MTNA Woodwind State Honorable Mention, and 2022 MTNA Woodwind State Alternate. At the 2020 Niu Valley Music Olympics, Iris placed second with her partner in the Senior Duet category and first in the Overall Senior Team Award. Iris has also participated in ensembles such as the 2020 OBDA Select Band and HYS.

Iris has been a part of HYS for five years, starting in seventh grade. What Iris enjoyed the most about being a member of HYS is the incredible community it creates. The Hawaii Youth Symphony has broadened Iris's world of music while teaching her valuable lessons: time management, determination, and passion. After graduating, Iris is hoping to dual degree in music and history. At college, Iris is sure she'll be able to apply the lessons she's learned at HYS in both her music and academic studies. Lastly, Iris would like to thank her family and teachers for all the support!

Jett Takazawa

Advanced Contemporary Ensemble / Bass Guitar / Punahou School

My music journey began in the second grade with ukulele lessons at Roy Sakuma. From the beginning, my love for music developed from the depths of my soul. I was in the seventh grade when I first heard the Punahou Jazz Band perform. They performed with so much class and style I knew from this moment forward that I had to be a part of this jazz band. I began playing the bass guitar with the help of John Kolivas, who taught me the basics of the bass guitar, assisting me in attaining my dream of reaching the legendary Punahou Jazz Band. My freshman year flew by, filled with music, jazz band on Monday nights, and marching band at 7 AM. Then Covid-19 hit. The lockdown halted nearly all musicians, and Mr. Kolivas could not continue lessons. Thus, my journey with Mr. Dean Taba began! He was a beacon of light during the pandemic, ushering me to practice and improve my playing. Mr. Taba soon encouraged me to join the Hawaii Youth Symphony Jazz Combo, leading me to where I stand today. After I graduate from high school, I will be going to Boston College for my undergraduate in Business (Data Analytics). I intend to continue my love for music at Boston College’s stage band and the Boston College pep band!

Josh Uchima

Advanced Contemporary Ensemble / Bari Saxophone, Keyboard

/ Punahou School

Josh is a senior attending Punahou School and has been a member of the HYS Jazz program since 2022. Music has been a part of Josh's life from a young age. He studied piano with Sam Adams of Studio East for nearly a decade. In the fifth grade, Josh began studying the baritone saxophone. He has participated in the Punahou concert band programs and is currently part of the Wind Ensemble. He has also been a Drum Major for the Punahou Marching Band. Since joining HYS Jazz, Josh has joined many different musical ensembles, including the reforming Punahou Jazz Band and the University of Hawaii Jazz Band. Participating in the HYS Jazz Program has also taught Josh to pursue many opportunities, even those beyond his musical journey. Josh would like to thank his mom for her support and love, his dad for his enthusiasm and encouragement, and his brother, who inspired him to pursue music as a career and hobby. Josh also thanks the many passionate teachers who led and supported him, and his friends who worked with him throughout his many musical pursuits, big and small.

John Patrick Villalon

Concert Orchestra / Tuba / ‘Aiea High School

Music became an important part of my life. Whether that be the friends I made, the good (and the bad) memories with music, and the nervousness that I always feel even if I play as background on a stage. I’m glad to be a member of HYS for the first and last time as a senior in high school. I never really knew what HYS was until my teacher suggested that I play for this year’s Concert Orchestra ensemble. He had told me that they needed a tuba player and so I went along with no expectations. HYS is something that I had wished to know and have done prior years before. But even now, I’m glad to be part of the amazing group that I play with in concert orchestra. After high school, I hope to attend a four-year university somewhere on the mainland with a pursuit to major in biology. I plan to broaden my horizons more with my music career through new connections and playing capabilities at a college level!

Kaylin Wee

Youth Symphony II / Violin / Hawaiian Mission Academy

When I was younger, my mom wanted me to learn how to play the cello. When she asked me if I wanted to take cello lessons, I gave her an unexpected answer: I told her that I wanted to play the violin. I have no idea how I knew what the violin was, but that one line started my violin journey, one that would become a big passion of mine. I got to pursue that passion in the Hawaii Youth Symphony. Although I have only been in HYS for one year, my experience in HYS has been extremely valuable. During my time in HYS, I improved my violin playing, became a part of a team, and met new people. As rehearsals progressed, I heard all of the musical parts come together, so I have a new love and appreciation for the many layers of music. Overall, HYS has made music more significant in my life.

After I graduate from high school, I will be attending a four-year university where I will continue to play the violin as a hobby. I would like to thank my family and friends for always believing in me, my violin teacher, Dr. Nikki Ebisu, for teaching me everything I know about the violin (literally), and my conductors and fellow HYS members for being a part of my musical journey.

Ella Williams

Youth Symphony II / Cello / Punahou School

Ella began playing cello in the fifth grade for the school orchestra. She joined HYS in seventh grade and has been in YSII for the past two years. With a deep passion for music, Ella even took up piano in her sophomore year. In addition to music, she plays varsity basketball, is invested in various clubs and extracurriculars, and loves spending time with friends and family.

Ella hopes to attend college on the East Coast and major in Environmental Science. She also hopes to continue playing the cello and piano in college. The Hawaii Youth Symphony has been a special place for Ella to continue developing her passion for music, be challenged, and meet amazingly talented people. She would like to thank her mom and dad for always pushing her to work hard in all things especially the cello, and being supportive of all her passions and hobbies. She'd also like to thank the various conductors and concert parents who have been a part of HYS throughout the years. They are a big part of what inspired me and encouraged me to play and have created a supportive atmosphere for musicians to come together.

Kate Wong

Youth Symphony I / Violin / Punahou

School

Kate Wong began her Hawaii Youth Symphony journey in the String Orchestra Ensemble when she was eight years old. Since then, she has been a member of CSO, CO, YSII, and is currently a violinist in YSI. She appreciates all the musical lessons she has learned through HYS’s programs as well as the life lessons that she has also learned through HYS’s annual auditions and weekly rehearsals. Kate is especially appreciative of the wonderful people she has met and the community she has built with her fellow musicians. Kate is also incredibly grateful to the conductors and concert parents who have inspired her to become a better musician throughout the years. Kate has enjoyed giving back to HYS through volunteering as a teaching assistant for HYS’s Academy String Program orchestras and is thankful for the opportunity to assist the learning of the next generation of musicians. In addition to YSI, Kate is also a member of the Punahou Symphony Orchestra and Punahou Chamber Music Program and has participated in many music workshops, including Indiana University’s Summer String Academy. When she is not playing the violin, Kate enjoys dancing with Hawaii Ballet Theatre, baking with her friends and family, and interning at the University of Hawai‘i Cancer Center. She hopes to continue music in the future.

Landon Yanagisawa

Concert Orchestra / Oboe / Waiākea High School

Landon has been a member of HYS Concert Orchestra for one year after he was encouraged to audition in his senior year by a community member and former educator. Through HYS, Landon has learned to balance his time with music and school and many different life lessons from his conductors. Landon has served as his class's secretary as a freshman and sophomore, and as a junior and senior, the vice president. He is Principal Oboe in the Waiākea High School Warrior Band, current drum major and student conductor, and has served as the band librarian for all four years. After high school, he plans to attend a four-year university towards his goal of becoming an airline pilot while continuing his studies in music. Landon would like to thank private teacher Mr. Wayne Kawakami for inspiring his passion for both music and the oboe, former band director Richard Akamine for his endless support, Mr. Fanning for his passion and jokes, Ms. Watanabe for keeping everyone on track, and his mother most of all for supporting and loving him endlessly. He is thankful for the opportunity to learn with the Hawaii music community.

Hyatt Yoshioka

Youth Symphony II / Oboe / Sacred Hearts Academy

Growing up with the piano, I had always had a strong interest in music. Although I had been in my school's band for a long time, joining HYS was a truly memorable journey. Through the program, I could play with talented students who were as passionate as I was about making music. Additionally, I was able to experience viscerally complex musical works like "New World Symphony" to fun, immersive ones like pieces from League of Legends. On another note, I had the opportunity to learn and play the English Horn at an orchestral level, which I immensely enjoyed.

At the Academy, I am the principal oboist in our Wind Ensemble program and the saxophone co-section leader for the marching band. I plan to attend college on the mainland, where I will study computer science and minor in digital arts. However, I absolutely hope to continue my musical passion in a university-level orchestra. Overall, participating in HYS with the community has been an extraordinary honor and experience. Indeed, I would like to thank my conductors, Mrs. Ochi-Onishi and Mr. Masaki, for their guidance and support. Lastly, I would like to thank my fellow YSII members for our wonderful time together.

Mahalo to Our Donors

Hawaii Youth Symphony appreciates these contributions made between July 1, 2022 and March 1, 2023. All attempts to create a complete and accurate listing have been made, however, errors and omissions are possible! We apologize for any errors and request that kindly you let us know. Please feel free to contact Cyrinthia Richards, Development Coordinator, at cyrinthia@hiyouthsymphony.org. Thank you very much for your support of Hawaii Youth Symphony!

CONDUCTORS CIRCLE

$50,000 and above

Anonymous

The Clarence T.C. Ching Foundation

Maurice and Joanna Sullivan Family Foundation

PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE

$10,000 to $49,999

Anonymous

Aaron & Erica Mau-Schank

Altres, Inc.

Arline L. Akina Trust

Atherton Family Foundation

Cades Foundation

Carnegie Hall (PlayUSA)

Cooke Foundation, Limited

City & County of Honolulu

First Hawaiian Bank Foundation

George Mason Fund of the Hawaii Community Foundation

Jean and William K. H. Mau Foundation

John R. Halligan Charitable Fund

Louise and Y.T. Lum Foundation

The LRY Charitable Foundation

McInerny Foundation

Serendipity II Fund of the Hawaii Community Founda

Dr. and Mrs. Thomas Kosasa

ANGEL

$5,000 to 9,999

Anonymous

Action Realty Corporation

Central Pacific Bank

First Hawaiian Bank Foundation

Dr. and Mrs. Geoffrey S. Sewell

Ms. Ginny Tiu

Gloria Kosasa Gainsley Fund of the Hawaii Community Foundation

Island Insurance Foundation

John & Clifford Mirikitani Foundation

Mr. and Mrs. John Morris

Johnson Ohana Foundation

Mr. & Mrs. Kent Tsukamoto

Michael Roeder Fund of HCF

Mr. Randy Wong & Dr. Helen Liu

Mr. & Mrs. Richard Ing

Schwab Charitable Fund

State of Hawaii

The Resort Group

Trinity Real Estate Investments LLC

BENEFACTOR

$2,500 to $4,999

Anonymous

Avalon Commercial, LLC

Becker Communications, Inc.

The Dods Foundation

The Ebbtide Family Fund

Foodland Super Market, Ltd.

Hawaii Symphony Orchestra

LPL Financial

Mr. & Mrs. Martin Hsia

Mr. & Mrs. Michael Onofrietti

Pacific Property Group, Inc.

Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Gainsley

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Williams

Mr. & Mrs. David Imanaka

Mr. Lorrin Hirano

Mr. Malcolm D. Lau

Mrs. Gladys Hirano

Ms. Cathy Monseur

Ms. Marie Imanaka

Ms. Patti Look

Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Y. Wong

PATRON

$1,000 to $2,499

Anonymous

Ms. Amy A. Taniguchi

Blacksand Capital, LLC

Mr. Boyd Judd and MaryAnn Judd

Mr. Brian Bennett

Mr. Collin Hoo

Mr. Daniel Dae Kim and Mia Kim

Mr. and Mrs. Gregg Yamanaka

Hawaiian Airlines

Hazel H. Takumi Foundation

HDG, INC.

Ms. Heidi Hahn

Mrs. Janet Cooke

Ms. Jillson Fleener

Jose L. Romero Memorial Fund at HCF

Kamaka Hawaii Inc.

Mr. and Mrs. Malcolm S. Koga

Masaki School of Music

Dr. Steven Nishi and Dr. Pamela Tauchi-Nishi

Pikake Foundation

Mr. Randolph Moore & Dr. Lynne Johnson

Mr. and Mrs. Richard Kim

Dr. Sandi Kwee and Dr. Leilani Kaanehe

Tammy Koo

Taylor-White Charitable Fund

Vanguard Charitable

Vive Hotel Waikiki

SPONSOR

$500 to $999

Anonymous

Mr. and Mrs. Alex M. Kwon

Ms. Ann K. Yoklavich

Bank of Hawaii Charitable Foundation

Mr. and Mrs. Barney Brennan

Mr. Bill Holowecki

Mr. & Mrs. Carlene Toshi

Ms. Chelsea Maeda

Corey Matsuoka

Mr. and Mrs. Dean Muramoto

Dr. and Mrs. Don Cha

Foodland Give Aloha

Mr. and Mrs. Gavan Sagara

Germaine's Luau, Inc.

Helen and Charles Higa

Dr. Hong-Ru Chen

Mr. and Mrs. Dean Muramoto

Mr. & Mrs. Chris Nielsen

Dr. and Mrs. Don Cha

Island Movers Inc.

Mr. & Mrs. Judith Niimi

Dr. & Mrs. Kenin Coloma

Drs. Len Tanaka

Marnie Murdoch

Ms. Mollie M. Y. Lee

Mr. Morris Kimoto

Mr. Peter & Fiona Li

Dr. and Ms. Kenneth Fink

Mr. & Mrs. Rodney M. K. Pang

State of Maryland

Dr. & Mrs. Tilden Osako

PARTNER

$250 to $499

Anonymous

ACW Group LLC

Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach

Ms. Audrey Mueh

Bank of America Charitable Gift Fund

Ms. Beth Tamayose

Ms. Brenda Tang

Carole Sheridan Memorial of the Hawaii Community Foundation

Mr. & Mrs. David Nako

Mr. & Mrs Dean Taba

Miss Eliana Chang

Eunjin Kim

Mr. Gary Yee

George Wellington, Jr.

Mr. and Ms. Ignace Jang

Miss Iris L. Sim

Mr. Jason Chin

Jason and Beverly Kravitt

Mr. & Mrs. Keith M. Sakamoto

Mr. Larry T. Takumi

Mr. and Mrs. Leslie Hong

Mr. Lynn Chang and Dr. Lisa Wong

Ms. Mary E. Whitehead

Mr. Melvin K. Wong

Mr. and Mrs. W. Peter Kwong

Mrs. Miyeko S. Hashimoto

Mr. & Mrs. Randall Hee

Mr. & Mrs. Nathan Momohara

Dr. & Mrs. Robert G. Peters

Mr. & Mrs. Robert Wo Jr.

Mrs. Ruth Oshiro

Dr. Ryan Lee

Samuel Kim

Dr. Vernon and Joyce Wong

Dr. and Mr. Vivien Tham

Dr. and Dr. Wade Nobuhara

Mrs. Wendy Chang

Mr. & Mrs. William E. Seehafer

Ms. Yuko Harada

CONTRIBUTOR

$100 to $249

Anonymous

Mr. Abraham Lagrimas, Jr.

Mrs. Janice Trubitt

Ms. Amy Okinishi

Mr. Andrew Akemoto

Andrew V. Bates

Mrs. Ann M. Ho

Ms. Anne Lee

Mr. Aris Doike

Miss Ayari Tochika

Ms. Barbara Hudman

Ms. Beatrice Affron

The Blackbaud Giving Fund

Mr. Brian Dote

Brian Umamoto

Mr. Byron Kelly

Dr. and Ms. Carl Yee

Ms. Carolyn Ing

Mrs. Carolyn Inoue

Ms. Cheryl Kojima

Mr. and Mrs. Chester J. Malins

Mr. & Mrs. Chester Kaneshiro

Christine Benoit

Mr. & Mrs. Claire Sakai-Hazzard

Mr. & Mrs. Clayton Takemoto

Mr. Clifford Cordeiro and Ms. Naoko Miyamoto

Ms. Colleen Sack

Ms. Corynn Sakamura

Craigside Retirement Residence

David Kamida

Mr. David Nijhawan

Dr. David Ross and Ms. Ann Castelfranco

Deanna Oda

Mr. Dennis Higashiguchi

Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Kohara

Mr. and Mrs. Derek Tenn

Dr. Donald and Anna Womack

Ms. Donna Von

Mr. & Mrs. Edward Chin

Mr. & Mrs. Ernest Hanaumi

Ms. Frances E. Oshita

Mr. & Mrs. Frank Hook

Mr. Glen Teraoka

Mr. Glenn Fernandez

Mr. Henry Sakata

Mr. Howard Jr & Jayne Kim

Mr. & Mrs. Ivan Morita

Mr. James Aceret and Ms. Wendy Krause

Honorable and Mrs. James Kawashima

Ms. Janna and Neil Healy

Mrs. Jean McIntosh

Mr. & Mrs. Jean Toyama

Ms. Jeannette M. Omoto

Dr. and Mrs. Jonn Saruwatari

Mr. Joshua Flores

Ms. Karen J Cox

Ms. Kathleen (Kay) Mattos

Mrs. Kats Tateishi

Mrs. Kaylene Yee

Keita Hirashima

Mr. and Ms. Kenneth Jim

Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Taira

Mr. Lance Oba

Laura Baker

Lauren Chun

Ms. Lauren Inouye

Mr. Laurence B. Goldstein

Laurie Young-Kagamida

Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence So

Mrs. Lee Ann LaFortune

The Lee Joint Trust

Mr. McCraigan True and Ms. Jessica Nelson

Ms. Marie Tai

Mr. Mark Arimoto

Mr. & Mrs. Mark Nakamura

Mr. & Mrs. Mark Tomomitsu

Ms. Martha Child

Mr. & Mrs. Marvin Taba

Ms. Mary Ann Kobayashi

Mr. and Ms. Michael A. Wachtel

Mr. and Mrs. Michael Hee

Mr. & Mrs. Mike Kobayashi

Mildred E. Uegawachi

Mrs. Nancy D. White

Ms. Nancy K. Sonoda

Network For Good

Mr. and Mrs. Roy Hallman

Ms. Pamela Young

Paul Casey

Paul Nakatani

Mrs. Phyllis Wong

Mr. Richard Byron

Mr. Richard Gilsdorf

Mr. Robert Strand and The Honorable Linda Luke

Ms. Rochelle Uchibori

Mr. Ross K. Shimokawa

Mr. and Ms. Salvador Petilos

Mr. Scott Simon

Mrs. Selene Patterson

Mr. & Mrs. Sharon Lee

Mr. Shawn Conley

Mr. & Mrs. Steven Shimabukuro

Ms. Suellen Barton

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas & Maria Stepec

Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Shigeta

Mr. & Mrs. Van M. Goto

Ms. Veronica Prado

Mr. & Mrs. Walter Loo

Dr. Yutaka Niihara

FRIEND

(Up to $99)

Anonymous

Ms. Agnes Kamana

Ms. Aileen Gushiken

Mr. Alvin and Karen Fuse

Amber Solidum

Mrs. Ann Doike

Dr. Anne Leilehua Lanzilotti

Mr. Art Deakins

Mr. and Mrs. Barry Kikuno

Mr. & Mrs. Carol S. Heape

Ms. Carole H. Toguchi

Mrs. Charlotte De Witt

Mr. Christopher M. Cabrera

Mr. Craig Watanabe

Mr. Dan Miyamoto and Dr. Karen Miyamoto

Ms. Doris S. Oshiro

Mr. and Mrs. Edward Wong

Elaine Chang

Mr. Eleuterio Arista Jr

Dr. and Ms. Eric K. S. Yee

Erin Wong

Mr. Ernest Kobayashi

Mrs. Francis Bowers

Mr. Frederick Harris

Ms. Gail Maida

Galen Kawasaki

Mr. Gerald Young

Mr. Gordon Rapozo

Gregg Yamauchi

Mr. & Mrs. Guy Kamitaki

Mr. Hai Nguyen and Mrs. Quynh

Tran

Han-Jae Cho

Ms. Hannah Watanabe

Ira Tagawa

Mr. James K. Michishima

Ms. Jan M. Tamura

Ms. Jane Jamison

Mr. and Mrs. Jason Poplin

Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Ono

Jessica Lum

Mrs. JoAnn Lamolino

Ms. JoAnn Maruoka

Dr. & Mrs. John B. Thompson

Dr. and Mrs. John Devlin

Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Lyau

Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Tran

Ms. Juanita C. Rafal

Ms. Julia Fujioka

Mr. Justin McClain

Ms. Karyn Komatsu

Ms. Kasumi Hara

Mr. Kenneth H. Burtness

Mrs. Kiyomi Abut

Mr. and Ms. Keane Nishimoto

Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence Lau

Mr. & Mrs. Leslie G. Crandall

Ms. Lisa Kaauwai

Mr. Lloyd Lim

Lorraine Pascual

Mrs. and Mr. Lynn Hokama

Ms. Mary Bertolino

Mrs. Mary Schornstheimer

Ms. Michelle Muraoka

Michelle N. Ige

Naomi Lyum

Mr. and Ms. Nick Yee

Ms. Nola Nahulu

Miss Noweo Kai

Dr. Peter Leong

Mr. & Mrs. Philip Brown

Ms. Rachel Odo

Mr. Randall Kusaka

Mr. & Mrs. Robert Springer

Mr. & Mrs. Ronald Lum

Ms. Rosina Cannizzaro

Ms. Ruby Arii

Ms. Ruby Shimabukuro

Ms. Sara Poland

Ms. Sonya Yara

Dr. and Mrs. Stanley Wong

Dr. Steven Azuma

Ms. Susan Imai

Ms. Susan Lape

Ms. Susan Wright

Ms. Sylvia Flores

Mr. & Mrs. Teresita Amore

Tisbest Philanthropy

Mr. Van Warren

Mrs. Willetta Centeio

Yoshiko Carrel

Tributes

Alisa Yee

In Honor of Jason K. Yee

Carl Yee

In Memory of Michiko Noguchi

Cathy Monseur

In Memory of John & Agnes

Pecorino

Darren and Tammy Nakagawa

In Honor of Cody Nakagawa

David Nijhawan

In Honor of Heavy Metal

Glen Teraoka

In Memory of Jordan H Teroka

Jadine Nielsen

In Honor of Jean Tsukamoto

Jason Kravitt

In Honor of Richard Ing

Laurie Young-Kagamida

In Honor of Collin

Mark Tomomitsu,

In Honor of Alexander S. Tomomitsu

In Memory of Masami

Tomomitsu

Serendipity II Fund of the Hawaii Community Foundation

In Memory of Joe & Luella

Spadaro

Gift in Kind

Agnes Terao-Guiala

Avery Farm

Stephen & Gloria J. Gainsley

Herbert Conley

Peter Shaindlin

Ginny Tiu