Celebrating the HYS Class of 2020! by Hawaii Youth Symphony

2016 Spring Concert Series www.HiYouthSymphony.org

Acknowledgments We are grateful to our community partners, whose generous support and special talents are invaluable to Hawaii Youth Symphony. Becker Communications Susan Wright Hannah Clauss Wilbur Wong Vibe Creative Marketing Erica Mau Chantel Galdo Printing Edwards Enterprises, Inc Photography Kelli Bullock Dennis Oda Wilbur Wong

Graphic Design Mark Nakamura UH Music Department Dr. Laurence Paxton, Chair Byron Moon, Facility Coordinator University Laboratory School Keoni Jeremiah, Principal Ira Wong, Band Director Kaimuki Middle School Frank Fernandes, Principal Niu Valley Middle School Laura Ahn, Principal

YSI Concert Parents Lawrence So Carol Taniguchi Wes Yoshida YSII Concert Parents Kimberly Kim Brooke Sakamoto Joyce Wong CO Concert Parents Mei Ibara Jae-Young Wung Thomas Swan HYS Jazz Concert Parent Nathan Chang

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.

2019â&#x20AC;&#x201C;20 Board of Directors & Staff BOARD OF DIRECTORS Patti Look, Chair Sharon R. Himeno, Vice Chair Erica Mau, Secretary Mary Ellen Williams, Treasurer Directors Alan Arizumi Liza Wo Davis Gladys Hirano Collin Hoo Martin Hsia Richard K. Ing, Past Chair Roy King, Jr. Malcolm Lau Tina Lau Michael Onofrietti Geoffrey Sewell, MD Jake Shimabukuro Jean Tsukamoto

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Hawaii Youth Symphony 1110 University Ave., Suite 200 Honolulu, HI 96826-1598 Tel. (808) 941-9706 Fax. (808) 941-4995 www.HiYouthSymphony.org

ADMINISTRATION

Randy Wong, President Samantha Champoux, Administrative Assistant Ann Doike, Programs Manager Aris Doike, Director of Operations Parker Nakamura, Assistant Operations Manager Rory Onishi, Music Librarian Justin Woo, Operations Assistant

FACULTY Symphony Program

Joseph Stepec, Director of Orchestral Activities; Conductor, Youth Symphony I Elton Masaki, Co-Conductor, Youth Symphony II Susan Ochi-Onishi, Co-Conductor, Youth Symphony II Wayne Fanning, Associate Conductor, Concert Orchestra Hannah Watanabe, Conductor, Concert Orchestra

Academy Program

Chad Uyehara, Director; Conductor, Intermediate String Ensemble & Concert String Orchestra Joan Doike, Conductor, Beginning String Ensemble & String Orchestra Ensemble Talia Turnbull, Academy Coordinator

Music in the Clubhouse

Matt Momohara, Conductor, Clubhouse Band Talia Turnbull, Instructor, Nanakuli Strings Joy Waikoloa, Instructor, Music4Kids

HYS Jazz

Dean Taba, Program Director & Conductor, Combo I Ryan Howe, Conductor, Combo II

Pacific Music Institute

Joseph Stepec, Artistic Director Ignace Jang, Solo & String Quartet Program Director Jeremy Lawi, General Manager Kimberly Kim, Admissions Coordinator

Hawaii Youth Symphony

Congratulations, Class of 2020! Kayleen Asuncion Severino Bulagay Tea Caliri Zachary Caluya Alizah Chao Jesse Cumpston Taylor DeCastro Luke Ellis Ryan Fielding Heather Fujita Megan Goh Hayden Hawkins Xun He Elliott Hee Jason Hee Sofia Himeno-Price Emi Horii Stella Hung Megan Ibara Leilani Ikeda Caitlyn Kadooka Reggie Kaiaokmalie Kiana Kawahara

2016 Spring Concert Series

Celebrating Our 55th Season

Brooke Kumasaka Lauren Kwee Julian Kwon Allyson Kwong Jacob Lacambra Maxwell Lee Nicadrio Lee Yudai Leonzon Natasha Loh Sabine Mejia Dylan Merkel Lauren Mukae Cuyler Murata Natalie Narito Zoe Oda Megan Ogasawara Vincent Ogasawara Kauai Paule Brandon Revilla MacKenzie Roberts Maysa Segovia Fiona Sievert Frank Sun

Kylee Takanishi Alec Tam Cara Tan Cody Tanaka Nicolas Tanaka Sherry Tanaka Noah Taniguchi Marcy Tokunaga Rylee Toma Adrian Tran Emily Uetake Shankara Varma Ryder Watanabe Karen Watarida Max Womack Alexandrea Wong Shota Yamada Erena Yamatsu Brandon Yee Hunter Yokoyama Leon Yoshida David Young Charles Yung

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Message from HYS President, Randy Wong Aloha HYS Class of 2020,

ongratulations to each of you on your journeys to reach this point. Having attended every one of your HYS concerts over the last eight years, I have seen the strength of your ambition to succeed, the humanity and emotion that you express in your playing, and the dedication that your families, teachers, and friends have for your development. All of us at HYS are proud to have been a part of your learning process, and we thank you for the opportunity to do so. As you each take new steps in life, keep your love for music with you. It will be there to comfort you, soothe you, entertain you, and inspire you. Use your personal knowledge and musical experiences to teach others about its joy. Find ways to engage others through your love for music. Make friends through music and make music with your friends. Just as music has made a difference in your life, it has also made a difference in the lives of thousands of other youth orchestra seniors across the world who are also graduating. No matter what career path you eventually take, I encourage you to always think of yourselves as ambassadors for music, advocates for music education, and askers of this question: What will our world be like, when every child has music in their life? Together, we can work towards HYSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vision to make music a right, not a privilege. May music always be with you, Randy Wong President & HYS â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;99

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Hawaii Youth Symphony

Message from Maestro Stepec Dear Class of 2020 Seniors,

will remember your class fondly: the moment you began your high school experience, I began my life in Hawai‘i. We've seen a lot these past few years and have grown, in a way, together. Four years is a good chunk of time and a lot has happened for the better: you've made it to this milestone with something that you can hold on to—an education and an experience—for years to come. Though we cannot meet to celebrate, the memories that you have created in four years will outlive what disappointment you may harbor now in your heart; they will last you for a lifetime and bring you joy and peace even in the most trying of times. As you leave us and continue, I hope you take with you your music. That may not mean you pursue it professionally or get to practice every single day as you would in preparation for a Listen and Learn concert (right?!)—but, that isn't the point. The point is that you reflect, remember and utilize what lessons you've learned in music in your life: to inspire others, to allow it to inspire you and to live with an open heart. You inspire others in more ways than you think. When we perform, we work to inspire our audience to feel something that can't be described with mere words. After a few years in HYS, we, your conductors, all know that you now have crazy good inspiring skills by your awesome performances! Use them. Transfer them into your daily life—inspire others with not only the strength of your opinions but with your open and just heart; inspire others by being honest and loyal. Inspire others by being yourself, the most unique thing there can be in the world. Allow others to inspire you. When we play in an orchestra we can't just play in a silo, protected, distanced from everyone else: we must react to each other. Don't be so proud to think that your way is the only way: listen to others, allow them to inspire you. And, lastly, live with an open heart. Music is an escape simply because it takes us somewhere else, it transports beyond whatever blues we may have and uncovers something deep inside of us: a need to care and sympathize with others—for, just like a symphony, we are all in this together. Class of 2020, I wish you well in your adventures, Joseph Stepec Director of Orchestral Activities & Conductor, Youth Symphony I

2016 Spring Concert Series

Celebrating Our 55th Season

Message from Mr. Masaki Dear Class of 2020 Seniors,

realize that all of you started this school year anticipating the large celebrations and milestones you would get to experience at the end of the year such as prom, graduation, and even Aloha Concert Luncheon. I am so sorry that the Coronavirus has taken that away from you but please understand that the experiences that you have been looking forward to are also experiences that we, as the HYS ohana, looked forward to providing for you. The Coronavirus leaves us all with heavy hearts on what could have been but instead of dwelling on these thoughts, we should be celebrating the good memories that we have had and look forward to the future when all of this will be behind us and we can truly celebrate once more. I have fond memories of those of you who were in YSII. You were a great group of musicians who contributed a lot to YSII. I will never forget the times we hung out NBC Concert Hall in anticipation for the Winter Concert, playing Super Smash Brothers against some of you in the McKinley High School Cafeteria, or watching many of you lead and perform your section solos for Listen and Learn. Not only are these fond memories for me, but these are memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life and these are the kinds of things that I hope you keep in your hearts as you go off pursue whatever life has intended for you. It has been an honor to be your conductor in YSII and for those of you that I never got to conduct or work with, please feel free to come and introduce yourselves to me someday so I can meet you. You have been a great bunch of leaders and many of your peers have looked up to and followed your example and they will strive to exemplify what you have done over the past year. Thank you so much for your musical contributions to the Hawaii Youth Symphony and to music in the state of Hawaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;i. I look forward to the day I can celebrate this milestone of life with all of you. Yours Truly, Elton Masaki Conductor, Youth Symphony II

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Hawaii Youth Symphony

Message from Mrs. Ochi-Onishi Aloha Class of 2020 Seniors:

s I reflect upon these past seven weeks since our last rehearsal, I feel as though we have been suspended in time. When will we return to normalcy and be able to rehearse and perform together? Fast rewind to our rehearsal on March 8thâ&#x20AC;ŚI wish we could have recorded our final rehearsal and I also wish I could have given my words of encouragement to each one of you instead of my usual reminder to practice your instrument. The news of the school closures and the cancellation of all concerts, activities, including Senior Graduation due to COVID-19 were shocking and devastating. My heart sincerely goes out to you. Everyone has worked very hard and deserves the accolades that come with graduating. The feelings of disbelief, exasperation, fear, sadness, and disappointment are understandable. Once those emotions are manageable it is time to put energy into doing something positive to help others. Many of you have already made a positive difference in our community. Presently, time is somewhat of a gift. In addition to completing your online work, you now have more time to spend with your family, help out at home, practice, listen to music, and do the activities that you rarely have time for, including catching up on sleep. You will appreciate this gift after you move on to college. We are so fortunate to have the ability to connect on WebEx, Zoom, Face Time, etc., which makes it possible for us to communicate and participate in online instruction. I am amazed at the creativity of people who put together music ensembles online, use virtual photo backgrounds to simulate a prom or create a virtual digital graduation. Although virtual simulations are not the same as being together in person, we must appreciate that we have a choice to change a negative into a positive. Thank you very much, Seniors, for your dedication to strive for a high standard of excellence in our Hawaii Youth Symphony Program! It has been a great honor to serve as one of your conductors and I truly enjoyed working with you! I miss you all and I certainly will continue to miss you as you move on to college. I will cherish all the great memories and all the performances where you exceeded our expectations. Please remember that the process is just as important as the product. The light at the end of the tunnel is approaching and we must continue to be strong, patient, and resilient. Best wishes to you and remember to keep music in your life! Musically Yours, Susan Ochi-Onishi Conductor, Youth Symphony II

2016 Spring Concert Series

Celebrating Our 55th Season

Message from Mr. Fanning Dear HYS Class of 2020,

know that this has been a difficult way to end your senior year. But as painful as it is, I hope you know that many people are still very proud of you. You still earned your diploma, and no ceremony or lack thereof will change that. You had great experiences in music with private lessons, your school music program, and of course the Hawaii Youth Symphony. We are all grateful to have worked with you. I am very eager to read or hear about your contributions to the world in the future. Take care of yourself, and again, we are all very proud of your accomplishments. As my gift to you, I would like to share with you an excerpt from a 1980 Commencement Address by Lt. Col. Ellison Onizuka, who was an astronaut from Kona, Hawai‘i. He has been one of my heroes since I was in elementary school. Mr. Onizuka unfortunately passed away along with six others in 1986 when the space shuttle Challenger exploded. “If I can impress upon you only one idea… Let it be that the people who make this world run, whose lives can be termed successful, whose names will go down in the history books, are not the cynics, the critics, or the armchair quarterbacks. They are the adventurists, the explorers, and doers of this world. When they see a wrong or problem, they do something about it. When they see a vacant place in our knowledge, they work to fill that void. Rather than leaning back and criticizing how things are, they work to make things the way they should be. They are the aggressive, the self-starters, the innovative, and the imaginative of this world. Every generation has the obligation to free men’s minds for a look at new worlds … to look out from a higher plateau than the last generation. 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 common place 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.” Wayne Fanning Conductor, Concert Orchestra

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Hawaii Youth Symphony

Message from Ms. Watanabe Dear HYS Seniors,

know this year has not gone as many of you had hoped, and especially now, you are missing all of the end-of-high-school events that usually take place. Please know that I am very proud of all of you. I have watched some of you as you have spent many years in HYS and gone through the different ensembles HYS has to offer. Others just joined us this year, but whenever you came into the HYS family, know that you will always be just that, FAMILY. You have grown as musicians and individuals each year and it has been an honor and pleasure to get to know you and be a part of your journey. You all come from various schools and backgrounds, and your teachers (both school & private) and parents have done such a wonderful job cultivating your love of music and molding you into the person you are today. It is always heartwarming for me to see how students from all over our state can come together and make music together. Thank you for all of your work and dedication this year and for being the role models in our ensembles. Parents, I hope you know your kids are AWESOME! I wish you couldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve heard them perform the pieces they were working on this semester. Thank you for all of your support! We know that it takes time to take them to rehearsals, lessons and concerts. Thank you for allowing them to be part of HYS and allowing us as conductors to work with them. To the Senior Class of 2020, I wish you all the best as you graduate and go on to do great things in the future! I hope you can take lessons learned from your musical journey and apply them in all aspects of your life. Congratulations on all youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve accomplished so far in life...time to open a new door and start a new journey! Aloha Oe...until we meet again. With Gratitude, Hannah Watanabe Conductor, Concert Orchestra

2016 Spring Concert Series

Celebrating Our 55th Season

Message from Mr. Taba Dear HYS Class of 2020,

ertainly no one had anticipated our current situation, but I am amazed and inspired by the way all of the HYS students have adapted and continued their musical enthusiasm, growth and excellence. I know that you will continue to use this experience to achieve great things, musically, academically, professionally, and personally in the course of the rest of your lives. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen many of you evolve through your experiences with HYS and I congratulate you on your achievements and most importantly, your efforts to grow in support of the ensemble(s) of which you have been a member. Clearly a life lesson that will serve you and everyone that you collaborate with in the future. Music and music making will always be a part of your lives and I know that you will spread the joy of this to others in one way or another. I look forward to hearing about all your future endeavors and will always be available to assist anyone who is a part of this HYS family. Enjoy celebrating your achievements and know that I am proud of all that you have done as students, musicians and great contributors. Dean Taba Director, HYS Jazz and PMI Jazz and Conductor, HYS Combo I

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Hawaii Youth Symphony

Class of 2020 Kayleen Asuncion

Youth Symphony II, Violin / Kalani High School

ince fourth grade, music has always been important in Kayleen’s life. Kayleen has been in the HYS since sixth grade. YSII had taught her how to play as a group, different way in supporting each other, and enjoy something as a whole. She is happy to have had the opportunity to join the HYS family, and now enjoys music more than ever. She would like to thank the HYS family, her private teacher Mariko Yuen, and her mother for the great six years of her HYS experience and a better musician. She will never forget the time she spent at HYS.

Severino Bulagay

Youth Symphony I, Cello / Moanalua High School

usic hasn’t always been an integral part of my life. I first picked up the Cello before seventh grade but at the time I never realized it would become a passion of mine. I also never thought to consider auditioning for the Hawaii Youth Symphony, but my private lessons teacher suggested I audition for the HYS 2016-17 season for Concert Orchestra. Eventually I auditioned for YSI my junior year of high school and have been a proud member since. I’ve been a part of HYS for three years and currently attend Moanalua High School. I also play for the Moanalua High School Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Elden Seta. Music has taught me that through hard work, the unthinkable is possible. Hours and hours of putting my blood, sweat, and tears into the cello has proven to me that passion, determination, and perseverance are necessary for success. Music has also taught me the importance of working as a team. When playing in an ensemble we are taught to play as one and cooperate with others to create beautiful music. Being selfish and thinking of only ourselves is detrimental not only for performance but for the ensemble to function as a whole. Music makes us all better people and I’m so thankful to HYS for making music possible for all of us.

Tea Caliri

Youth Symphony II, Violin / Kalani High School

outh Symphony has been a way for me to challenge myself. It has helped me learn and improve and I will always be grateful for everything HYS has done for me. Some of my favorite times have been the Listen and Learn concerts, because we could always see how happy the audience was to be there. I have also loved getting to learn from amazing faculty throughout the school year and summer. They have taught me so much and I will always appreciate all they have done for me. HYS has taught me life lessons including hard work and perseverance will help me reach my goals. It has shown the value of working together and how teamwork yields great results. I plan to go to the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa. I want to continue to learn music and get better at the violin. I also plan to explore other areas and generally challenge myself.

2016 Spring Concert Series

Celebrating Our 55th Season

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Zachary Caluya

Youth Symphony I, Clarinet / Campbell High School

usic has been in my life since I was in third grade. Having a seat in YSI made me encounter a new perspective on music and experience playing in an orchestra with people who have a good attitude all the time. My experience in YSI has been a short journey since I never knew about it until the end of my junior year. However, in one year I can say performing with this group has matured me musically and appreciate music more. Another activity I do outside of YS is my internship at Ilima Intermediate. There, I intern for Mr. Kawasaki, and help him with the woodwinds or whatever he needs. After high school, I plan to join the National Guard Band, Then, I will major in music education at UH MÄ noa and get my bachelors in music performance at University of Michigan.

Alizah Chao

Youth Symphony I, Violin / Roosevelt High School

tarting in SOE in 3rd grade, I have been a member of HYS for the past 10 years. As I reflect on my experience, I can confidently say that HYS has been the most fun, most rewarding, and overall best experience of my life. HYS has pushed me to become a better musician and has taught me so many valuable skills such as self-discipline, teamwork, and how to subdivide (haha). On top of that, I have made so many cherished friendships and meaningful memories that will last a lifetime. Most of all, HYS has helped me realize my strong passion and love for music, which is why I plan to study Violin Performance at a 4-year university (TBD) after high school. Thank you to my violin teacher- Mrs. Nancy Shoop-Wu, to all of the hardworking HYS staff, and to my family and friends for your endless support and for giving me the gift of music. I love you all and will miss you so much! #epicstepec.

Jesse Cumpston

Youth Symphony I, Percussion / Kalani High School

n 8th grade my band director basically recruited me to join the Concert Orchestra for HYS. In sophomore year, after a hiatus from Youth Symphony, I came back and joined YSII. For the following two years I went into YSI. After high school I plan to go to University of Hawaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;i and earn a 4-year degree. Outside of music, I like to skate and play video games. Youth Symphony has been an experience unlike any other. Not only has YS improved me as a player, but also as a person. I have learned several key skills in life and made connections with others that I will cherish for as long as I remember. I am extremely grateful for the private lessons teachers, parents, concert parents, directors, and supporters. Music will always be a part of my life and YS provided such an unforgettable experience that I am truly thankful for.

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Hawaii Youth Symphony

Taylor DeCastro

Youth Symphony I, Violin / ’Iolani School

t the age of 5, Taylor DeCastro put an ukulele on her shoulder and sawed away at the plastic strings, using a chopstick as her bow. A few years later, Taylor barely taught herself piano; a skill that she barely has. When Taylor began attending ’Iolani School in the 6th grade, she started violin in the Beginning Suzuki Violin Class. Thoughts of joining the Hawai’i Youth Symphony started to cross her mind in 9th grade, but she always passed on the idea, with the fear that she would not be nearly as successful as her counterparts with about 10 more years of playing on her. In 11th grade, Taylor finally joined YSI and has loved it ever since. Taylor extends her deepest gratitude to her private teachers, Colin Belisle & Helen Liu Wong, her family, and everyone who has helped her live out her, “ukulele & chopstick” dreams. Most importantly, Taylor would like to thank HYS for providing some of the fondest musical memories, friendships, and mentorships she has ever had. Taylor would not be half the musician she is today without the entire organization and its supporters. In the Fall, Taylor will be attending a four-year university to pursue a BM in Violin Performance.

Luke Ellis

Jazz Combo I, Keyboard / Punahou School

uke first joined the Hawaii Youth Symphony as a violinist in SOE at the age of 10. He soon discovered it was not for him, so he left the program. He never thought he would end up back in the program and he never thought HYS would positively change the trajectory of his life. He now hopes to pursue jazz piano in the setting of a dual-degree program. HYS has taught him so much about music, playing nicely with other people, what it takes to be a musician, and the music industry in general. Luke also participates in a good deal of theater, dance, and he is an Eagle Scout. Luke thanks Mr. Dean Taba for his steady and enlightening guidance over the past two years. He also thanks his parents and sister for their constant support, his fellow jazz musicians for elevating him, and all the HYS Staff for supporting his education.

Ryan Fielding

Youth Symphony I, Cello / Moanalua High School

have been a part of the Hawaii Youth Symphony program since I was 8 years old, making this season my 10th year of playing the cello. My years in the academy program not only gave me a good foundation on my instrument, but also sparked my love for music education. It showed me just how important it is to learn an instrument. As I moved up, Concert Orchestra and Youth Symphony II gave me some of my favorite memories while providing an opportunity to meet and connect with more people in the local music community. I would like to thank my parents for encouraging me to learn music. As well as Mr. Gochenouer, Mrs. Watanabe, Mr. Seta, Mr. Masaki, and Mr. Hamano for being the ones actually teaching me. Lastly, I would like to thank Aris Doike, his team, and the concert parents for making rehearsals bearable. See ya HYS!

2016 Spring Concert Series

Celebrating Our 55th Season

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Heather Fujita

Concert Orchestra, Oboe / Moanalua High School

feel lucky to have gotten this honor to be part of Hawaii Youth Symphony this year. Throughout the past 7 months I think the most memorable moment was the first official practice day at Niu Valley when I got to meet with the other people in my section. Everybody was super nice to me and I felt like a real part of this family. As this season went on, I grew exponentially closer to the others in my section, both musically and emotionally. While in this orchestra I have learned many life lessons that I have incorporated in my daily life and hope to use it for the rest of my life. One of the major lessons I have learned was prepare your material beforehand and bring forth the best of yourself for other’s sake. The meaning behind this was to never wait to do something later when you can do it today and never risk bringing down the group when you know that you can do better. These lessons have taught me to think of how others will be affected by my choices. After I graduate high school, I am planning to either study at a university for architectural engineering / industrial engineering or go into the military to clear my mind and find a clear idea of what I want to do.

Megan Goh

Youth Symphony I, Cello / Punahou School

first began playing the cello in fifth grade, after which I fell in love with making music. I started playing with the Hawaii Youth Symphony in 9th grade in CO, and after playing in YSII for two years after that, I made it to YSI in senior year. Playing in HYS has both pushed me to further develop my skills as a musician and given me an appreciation of classical music. In addition to playing in YSI, I play in the Punahou Symphony Orchestra, and in my free time, I compete as the team captain of the Punahou air rifle team, read books, and hang out with my friends. In the future, I am planning on attending a 4-year college and majoring in biochemistry, and I hope to continue playing the cello there. I’d like to thank my parents for supporting me during my concerts and driving me to rehearsals, and I’d like to thank Ms. Pauline Bai for giving me lessons since sixth grade. I am also thankful for HYS for giving me the opportunity to perform high level music with other passionate students from around Hawai’i.

Hayden Hawkins

Youth Symphony I, Bassoon / LCC

t is hard to promptly state the impact that music has had on my life. In 2013 during my first year of middle school at University Laboratory School, with no prior interest or experience with music, I chose to play the bassoon of all instruments. That choice, seemingly insignificant at the time, has led me on a deeply enriching path of selfdiscovery. I went from knowing nothing about music to being engrossed in its inner workings, history, and what it takes to write it. That growing passion is what led me to audition for Hawaii Youth Symphony right as I entered high school. I made it into YSII as a 2nd chair bassoonist, and the incredible experiences I’ve had since then, as well as the friends I’ve made along the way are things I will always cherish. I rose through the YSII ranks before making it into YSI this season as a principal bassoonist. On top of being introduced to wonderful repertoire throughout my time in HYS, I’ve learned so much about what it takes to work in an ensemble environment, and how that ties into my own musicality. I graduated high school early and am currently finishing up my first year as an Industrial Technician student at Leeward Community College. Over the years, I’ve grown as a performer and a composer, and I doubt that I will ever stop doing either, regardless of whether they are my sole profession.

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Hawaii Youth Symphony

Xun “Judy” He

Youth Symphony I, Oboe / Sacred Hearts Academy

y experience with the Hawaii Youth Symphony has been outstanding and extremely rewarding. Not only does it encourage my discipline, resilience, and musicianship, it provided me with long-lasting friendship and inspiring mentorship. I am thankful for all the preparation that goes into every concert program, and the touching performances that we are able to put up. Through HYS, I learned about teamwork, determination, and experienced genuine joy that comes from music. In addition to my participation in YS, I am also the Drum Major of Sacred Hearts Academy’s all girls marching band, the president of National Honor Society, the lead dancer of Hawaii Rainbow Dance Group and the co-captain of my school’s renowned Air Riflery team. Shooting is something that trains one’s mental strength and it elevated my academics and artistic abilities. I qualified for the Junior Olympics that happens every year in Colorado Springs and got to meet numerous skillful players from all over the country. After I graduate from high school, I hope to pursue medical majors in a four-year university in California and I wish to continue playing music as a hobby.

Elliott Hee

Youth Symphony I, Bass / ’Iolani School

lliott has come a long way from the child who was shorter than his instrument in the third grade. He would have never believed you if you told him that one day, he would be the principal in an all-state orchestra. Elliott has been a part of the Hawaii Youth Symphony for six years, four of which have been in YSI. Had Elliott known his traveling opportunities were more plentiful, he would have tried much harder before he came to ’Iolani. Currently, Elliott is a part of ’Iolani’s Orchestra 5 where he is principal as well. Outside of orchestra Elliott can be found bowling, doing physics homework, or gaming with his friends. His appreciation for all of his family and teachers has no bounds, but Elliott is truly appreciative to all of his friends who encouraged and stood by him throughout his music career.

Jason Hee

Youth Symphony II, Horn / Hawaii Baptist Academy

have been a part of the Hawaii Youth Symphony for three years. I started in Concert Orchestra in sophomore year and have been in YSII for the past two years. I am currently at Hawaii Baptist Academy and have been in the Symphonic Wind Ensemble for three years as well. After I graduate, I will attend the University of Hawaii as an engineering student. While I am not planning to major in music, I am planning to continue playing horn in the UH band. Being in YS has not only taught me important life lessons such as hard work and attention to detail, it has also taught me the value of friendships. I will cherish the new friends I’ve made at YS. It makes me sad to think that I will be leaving YS, but I am thankful for all of the happy memories it has brought me.

2016 Spring Concert Series

Celebrating Our 55th Season

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Sofia Himeno-Price

Youth Symphony I, Cello / Punahou School

usic has been a huge part of my life since I was three years old. There are so many people who have been a part of my music journey that I would like to thank, starting with my family and teachers who have shown me unconditional support in all my musical endeavors. Hawaii Youth Symphony has played such an important role in my development as a musician and as a person, and I am extremely grateful for the eight years of rehearsals and concerts. This fall, I will be attending the University of Colorado Boulder at the Leeds School of Business. I am extremely excited for the new adventures ahead and I am so thankful for everyone who has helped me get to where I am today, I could not have done it without you.

Emi Horii

Youth Symphony I, Violin / ’Iolani School

mi was born in England and began her violin journey at the age of five. Her first encounter with the instrument was seeing Vanessa Mae playing the electric violin on television. As she frolicked around the living room, creating vague imitations of Mae’s flamboyant gestures, her hopeful mom took it as a sign of musical giftedness. Emi has yet to confirm her mom’s intuition, but she knows that her initial enthusiasm towards the instrument has not wavered. After moving to Hawai’i in 2009, she continued her violin studies with Mrs. Nancy Shoop-Wu. At ’Iolani School, Emi is a member of Orchestra 5 and the Scholarship Chamber Ensembles. She was also a prize winner at the 2017 HMTA Competition. She was recently selected as a member of NYO2 2020, and will travel to New York to perform at Carnegie Hall in July. Aside from playing violin, Emi serves as an officer for ’Iolani’s Model United Nations club, National Chinese Honor Society, and Chinese Club. Emi will attend Haverford College in the Fall. Emi has really enjoyed YSI. She is grateful for being surrounded by such talented friends and would like to thank YSI for teaching her to go beyond self-expression and technical precision to seek musical communication.

Stella Hung

Youth Symphony I, Violin / Punahou School

tella Hung started playing the violin at the age of seven under the instruction of Ms. Mariko Yuen and currently studies with Mr. Ignace Jang. Beginning in CO in the 6th grade, she has been a member of HYS for seven years now and is grateful to have been able to play as Concertmistress of YSI last year. She is thankful for the countless opportunities HYS has given her to explore her passion and connect with other like-minded individuals. Stella’s HYS experience has allowed her to grow both as a musician and as a person, as it has taught her the values of self-discipline, collaboration, and community. In addition to the Youth Symphony, she participates in the Punahou Symphony Orchestra and Chamber Music Program. She is also a ballerina with studio company Ballet Hawaii and has been dancing since the age of 4. During her free time, she enjoys cooking, spending time with friends, and doing outdoor activities. She plans to attend college on the mainland and continue playing the violin while majoring in biochemistry and psychology. Stella would like to thank her family, friends, and mentors for their devotion, encouragement, and inspiration in guiding her to become the musician and person she is today.

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Hawaii Youth Symphony

Megan Ibara

Concert Orchestra, Clarinet / Kaiser High School

hat I liked best about the Hawaii Youth Symphony is that I am able to play music with different people across the state and through the Pacific Music Institute, I have also met people throughout the world. Having met all these amazing people throughout my time here, they have all taught me how to better myself at my instrument and as a person. Being able to meet new people and creating fun memories together is what really makes the group fun and enjoyable. I like being able to go to different events such as marching band events and seeing other members that I have met in the Hawaii Youth Symphony. I have learned from the Hawaii Youth Symphony that in order to better myself I have to be open-minded to others and to learn from each and every member of the group. Everyone has something to contribute and by being surrounded by great musicians I have learned so much about my instrument and the musicality of things. The Hawaii Youth Symphony has also taught me how to work hard. By doing auditions and playing in rehearsals I have always put in my best work. Even when it feels like I can’t do it I know that I can push myself to do well for myself and for the group. The conductors and clinicians are all amazing. They are fun, encouraging and provide excellent support and guidance. I will be attending the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa majoring in Travel Industry Management and minoring in music performance. I intend to continue playing my instrument in a symphony even after I have graduated from college.

Leilani Ikeda

Youth Symphony I, Violin / Punahou School

eilani Ikeda started playing the violin at the age of seven with Ms. Mariko Yuen, and she currently studies under Mr. Ignace Jang, with whom she began studying since the 11th grade. She has been a violinist with HYS starting in SOE and CSO in the 3rd grade, gradually advancing into CO, YSII, and YSI. In the 6th grade, she had the honor of being chosen as a concertmaster of CO. In addition to being a member of HYS, Leilani participates in the Punahou Symphony Orchestra and the Punahou Chamber Music Program. Aside from playing music, Leilani enjoys hiking, going to the beach, and eating with her friends. She is also a hula and Tahitian dancer with Tunui’s Royal Polynesians. Leilani plans to attend college in Japan and hopes to continue with the violin while majoring in business. Leilani’s experiences in HYS has taught her the importance of discipline and self-motivation, both of which are valuable skills that will carry her through her future endeavors. She is thankful to her friends for making music such a fun and enriching experience. Finally, she would like to thank her parents, Mr. Tamon Ikeda and Mrs. Miki Ikeda, for their endless support and encouragement throughout her musical journey.

Caitlyn Kadooka

Youth Symphony I, Clarinet / ’Iolani School

aitlyn’s passion for music began in elementary school while watching the local middle school band’s annual performances. She seized the opportunity to begin learning music in middle school starting on the clarinet. Since then, she has studied with Lynne Nakaura for the past seven years. Caitlyn currently serves as the principal clarinetist in both the ’Iolani Wind Ensemble and Orchestra 5. Caitlyn has been a member of HYS for four years starting in CO in ninth grade. She then spent her tenthgrade year in YSII and moved up to YSI for her last two years of high school. In addition to teaching Caitlyn discipline and the importance of practice, HYS has provided her with an outlet to meet talented musicians and strive for success in playing difficult pieces. Outside of music, Caitlyn enjoys photography, volleyball, and is currently her school’s Apiary Club secretary. In the future, Caitlyn hopes to attend a college on the mainland with a major in biology in hopes of eventually studying optometry. Although Caitlyn will not be majoring in music, she fully intends on bringing her passion for music with her on her next journey in life.

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Reggie Kaiaokamalie

Youth Symphony I, Oboe / Campbell High School

eggie’s passion for music began at an early age, growing up listening to music with his grandparents. Reggie is currently a senior and has been a member of James Campbell High School Saber’s Marching Band, Symphonic and Concert Orchestra throughout his high school journey (4 years). He played a variety of instruments including oboe, English horn, flute, and piccolo. His focus on playing the oboe began during his 8th grade year in middle school. Reggie has been a member of the Hawaii Youth Symphony since his freshman year, concentrating on the oboe and English horn. Being a part of the HYS has taught him the importance of commitment, prioritizing/ organization, and time management. The most fun part of being an HYS member is making new friendships that will extend beyond his time with HYS. Upon graduation, Reggie would like to continue his music education by enrolling in college. At this point, he has not made a final decision, but wherever he ends up going, his passion for music will continue.

Kiana Kawahara

Youth Symphony I, Flute / Moanalua High School

iana has been involved with HYS for four years, this being her third year in YSI. Kiana feels that it has been a true honor and privilege to be involved with this group, and she loves the idea of coming together with talented musicians from all over the state to create music. HYS was Kiana’s first orchestral experience; playing with HYS has led Kiana on a path towards dedicating herself towards performing at the highest level she can. Exposing herself to the challenge and rigor of this group has taught Kiana many lessons dealing with time efficiency, determination, and the value of hard work. Rehearsing and performing with YSI has really made the notion of committing oneself to the music apparent. Although her college is currently undecided, Kiana wishes to major in music performance. She would like to thank Mr. Stepec for all of his time and dedication, Mr. Seta for all of his encouragement and support, Ms. Saiki-Mita for all of her wisdom and incredible, inspiring passion, and most importantly, her mom for her undying support and love.

Brooke Kumasaka

Youth Symphony I, Violin / Moanalua High School

his year marks my ninth year in the Hawaii Youth Symphony. I am so eternally grateful for everything that I have gained and for the many great teachers I have been exposed to and allowed to learn from through HYS. The most important thing that I learned from HYS that I can share here is that good role models are extremely important to have in all students’ lives, and I am very thankful that HYS has given me and many other students so many of them. In addition to being in HYS, I am also a member of the Moanalua High School Symphony Orchestra and I love to bake cookies! I would like to thank my violin teacher, Ms. Sheryl Shohet, who has never ceased to push me to be better every day. I am looking forward to a future in nursing, and while I may not be going into music professionally, I know that it will always be a part of my life, and I know that HYS has been a huge contributor to my love for music.

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Hawaii Youth Symphony

Lauren Kwee

Youth Symphony I, Violin / Punahou School

auren has been a violinist of the YSI since her sophomore year at Punahou School. She started her musical voyage at age five playing the piano at Punahou Musical School and began studying the violin at age six with Helen Higa at the Punahou Suzuki Music Program. She recently started instruction from Maile Reeves. She is part of the Punahou School Symphony Orchestra and the Punahou Chamber Music Program and has participated in the Hawaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;i All-State Orchestra and Japan-Seattle Suzuki Institutes. HYS has been a memorable experience for Lauren and has connected her with many classmates that also share a passion for music. Aside from music, Lauren enjoys skateboarding, surfing, fishing, debate team, science bowl, math team, and being a physics TA. While continuing to play music in college, she intends to major in physics and is interested in pursuing a Ph.D. in physics. Lauren would like to thank her parents, sister, Ms. Helen Higa, and Ms. Maile Reeves for all of their support.

Julian Kwon

Youth Symphony I, Cello / Punahou School

aving started learning the Cello in 4th grade, I heard about and was accepted into the Youth Symphony program at the end of my 6th grade year. After two years in CO and two years in YSII, I was able to join YSI at the beginning of my junior year. While the YS program has given me the opportunity to learn valuable skills such as time management, the value of hard work and how to perform, I think the most valuable thing that YS has given me is the opportunity to meet others who also share a love for music and what it stands for. I have been able to meet many like-minded people who I can confidently call my friends. Other than being a member of the YS program, I also was part of the Boy Scouts of America program under the direction of Troop 777. This past Summer I attended a weeklong backpacking event at the Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico, where I hiked for 7 days over the course of roughly 60 miles.

Allyson Kwong

Youth Symphony I, Violin / Punahou School

llyson Kwong began playing the violin at the age of three, and later embarked on her HYS journey at age nine. Having worked her way up from CSO to YSI, Allyson has learned valuable lessons on persistence, discipline, and patience. Being a member of HYS has allowed her to collaborate, learn from, and connect with inspiring students and mentors. Aside from HYS, Allyson is a member of the Punahou Symphony Orchestra, the Punahou Quartet Program, and Na Mele O Suzuki String Ensemble. Along with these various musical programs, she volunteers at retirement homes, such as Arcadia, as well as hospitals and public libraries. There, she provides entertainment, solace and healing through music. Besides violin, she works as an AP Biology and Anatomy teacherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s assistant. In college, she intends to continue with violin while majoring in biomedical engineering. Allyson is very grateful for her parents and sister, Marissa, for all their love and support throughout the years. She sends her warmest thanks to Ms. Sheryl Shohet for her knowledgeable teachings and endless patience while sharing her love for music with her. Finally, she would like to express her deepest appreciation to HYS for the many opportunities and experiences they have given her.

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Jacob Lacambra

Youth Symphony I, Tuba / Roosevelt High School

acob has been a part of HYS for two years. Spending his junior year in YSII and senior year in YSI. He is a senior at Roosevelt High School and participated in the school’s top band, marching band, and symphony orchestra this past year. He looks to continue his musical studies at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, Oklahoma, as a music education major and eventually graduate school for his master’s/doctorate degree. Within his two years with the organization, he enjoyed playing challenging orchestral repertoire and sharing it with those who loved music as much as he did. Being a part of HYS taught him not only the significance of music education and performing skills, but social skills as well. The ability to listen and play accordingly has been the centerpiece to their ensembles’ successes and he has been more than grateful to indulge in it all. Deciding to partake in HYS has been one of the best decisions he has ever made and will forever cherish the memories they made.

Maxwell Lee

Concert Orchestra, Flute / Punahou School

usic has shaped me into the person I am today. From the ukulele lessons in elementary school to playing contrabass flute in a decet, music has always been there for me. It has given me the chance to articulate what I do not have the confidence to say. I am extremely grateful to have been a part of HYS for these last four years. HYS has not only helped develop my passion for music, but has additionally allowed me the chance to encounter so many remarkable people in this music community. In addition to HYS, I am a four-time varsity swimmer and state finalist for Punahou School, the president of Punahou School’s LIFE club, and co-founder of a plastic pollution fighting non-profit: E Mālama I Ka ’Āina. I plan to attend a four-year university on the mainland, majoring in Aerospace Engineering. I would like to thank my loving parents for always supporting me, Mrs. Aileen Kawakami for all the lessons/patience, and Ms. Watanabe and Mr. Fanning for inspiration. And to my fellow friends, I thank you with all of my heart for being part of my growth in guiding me to who I am today.

Nicadrio ”Nica” Lee

Jazz Combo I, Electric Guitar / Maryknoll School

ith all the gratitude I can express, being a part of HYS’s newly Jazz program has propelled the confidence in pursuing music beyond the cosmos. Without the guidance and support from HYS and my mentor, Dean Taba, I would not be attending my dream school and pursuing my dream career. HYS has also given me the opportunity to connect with other students and mentors of music. Along with studying Jazz at Combo I, I’ve applied my musical skills and endeavors in three released EPs over the span of my HYS career (2019–2020) titled, “Cruise, Ms., and Palette.” I was blessed to feature one of my original songs, “Easy Intro” at HYS’s Nā Mele ceremony. Besides my passion for music, my favorite activity is paddling. The ocean taught me a lot about myself and rejuvenates my musical juices. After college, I truly am in debt to my parents, HYS, and my Paddling Coaches. I am fortunate to have parents that support my craft one hundred percent and hope to help my parents retire and pay off my college debt, mentor future HYS Combo students, and continue to grow Maryknoll’s paddling program.

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Hawaii Youth Symphony

Yudai Leonzon

Youth Symphony I, Violin / Moanalua High School

y name is Yudai Leonzon, and music has been a large part of my life. I took part in the Hawaii Youth Symphony program in String Orchestra Ensemble. I wasn’t that proficient at playing the violin however being part of this fantastic program, I was able to cultivate my playing to newer heights with dedication and camaraderie amongst the diverse student groups in this program. Being in the YSI for the past 4 years of my high school career, I was able to pick up various lessons either through music or life related. The most valuable lessons that I learned throughout the program was the act of responsibility. For the winter concert, I was given the chance to be a concertmaster. As concertmaster, not only do I lead the section in all the cues, I have to be prepared for anything that’s on hand. The most memorable moment as a concertmaster was the conversation I had with the piano soloist from Japan. Being able to understand both English and Japanese, I was able to be communicate what the Maestro and the soloist with what they wanted musically. This act of communication in the music process has been solidified, thanks to the amount of opportunities the Hawaii Youth Symphony has given me. Without this program, performing at Carnegie Hall 3 times amongst the National Youth Orchestra, would forever be a dream, not a reality. I would like to give my thank yous to the following, Mariko Yuen, Jeff Hamano, Hannah Watanabe, David Hamano, Nikki Ebisu, Ignace Jang, Alexander Kerr, Amy Oshiro, Joseph Young, Carlos Miguel Prieto, James Ross, Ying Fu, Lauren Roth, Alex Gonzalez, Christopher Robinson, Blake-Anothony Johnson, Gabriela Montero, Joseph Stepec, Elton Masaki, Susan Ochi-Onishi, Chad Uyehara, Joan Doike, Ryan Howe, Steven Agasa, Randy Wong, Christopher Yick, Daniel Lucas and many more. Finally, I would love to thank my family, Nagako Leonzon, Arvin Leonzon, and Koshiro Leonzon, of your support I’m able to play music and have a passion for music. Once again, thank you to all for helping me cultivate my love of music by nurturing me every step of the way. In the future, I am planning to major in Music and hopefully to compete in International Competitions.

Natasha Loh

Youth Symphony II, Bassoon / Hawaii Baptist Academy

atasha Loh was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawai’i, and she is currently a high school senior at Hawaii Baptist Academy. Natasha began playing the Bassoon in the summer of her 6th grade year at Kawananakoa Middle School. After transferring to Hawaii Baptist Academy in her 7th grade year, she has studied under Richard Hotoke and Brad Shimizu. Since the beginning of her high school career, she has played with Hawaii Youth Symphony’s Concert Orchestra and Youth Symphony II and has competed in the Oahu Band Directors Association’s (OBDA) Solo & Ensemble for three consecutive years, winning two red metals and one blue metal. Natasha participated in the 2018 New York “Sounds of Spring” International Music Festival at Carnegie Hall with the Hawaii Baptist Academy Symphonic Wind Ensemble. In March of this year, she was a finalist in Westmont College’s Guild Scholarship Competition. Natasha plans to continue her music career after graduating from HBA as she pursues her interests in studying Biomedical Engineering and Bassoon Performance.

Sabine Mejia

Youth Symphony I, Violin / Punahou School

he four years playing with YSI and three years with the Punahou Symphony Orchestra have been integral to my development as a violinist. My favorite part of rehearsal is hearing everyone play the entire piece together for the first time. Finally experiencing all the sections come alive as a full symphony is thrilling! I would like to thank my teacher, Dr. Nikki Ebisu, for her patience and guidance, and for encouraging me to take the opportunity of playing at Carnegie Hall during my freshman year in their Honors String Orchestra. I would like to thank my parents for supporting me in all my endeavors, and Mr. Joseph Stepec for bringing passion, energy, and humor to every rehearsal. Aside from music, I enjoy sports,

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dance, design and writing. I grew up doing gymnastics, then pursued cheerleading, and diving in high school. I am also a member of Ka Punahou, our school newspaper, writing articles and designing art for the covers. Through the years, HYS has taught me patience, discipline and accountability, traits which I will carry with me in college as I pursue product design and entrepreneurship.

Dylan Merkel

Youth Symphony I, Cello / Homeschool

ylan has been a member of HYS for ten years, starting all the way in ISE. Eventually, he made his way into YSI after seven years of hard work as a cello player. He is homeschooled, and has done numerous other individual performances outside of HYS since he started playing cello. Dylan plans to study computer science at an as of yet undecided university. HYS has provided Dylan with many opportunities to meet new people and learn new things. Dylan learned of his long-time teacher Janice Trubitt, after she taught a workshop he participated in during his time in the HYS Academy Program. He also learned about the effect music can have on people, and how a performance can change someoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life. He has gone from a shy, timid person to someone who loves the stage, and always looks forward to the next performance. These new skills and ideas will undoubtedly serve Dylan well in any of his future endeavors.

Lauren Mukae

Youth Symphony II, Violin / St. Andrewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s School

auren has been playing violin for a number of years. She originally started playing both the piano and the violin; however, she discovered a greater passion for the violin. In ninth grade, Lauren started taking lessons with Mr. Uyehara who helped refine her skills and encouraged her to join Hawaii Youth Symphony. At the end of sophomore year, Lauren finally decided to audition and was able to play with Youth Symphony II for both her junior and senior year. Lauren is looking forward to her college experience on the mainland where she hopes to find a major that strikes her interest. While her time with Youth Symphony was short, Lauren enjoyed it immensely and hopes to continue music as a hobby.

Cuyler Murata

Youth Symphony I, Trombone / Kalani High School

uyler has been a member of HYS for 5 years. He had begun his long HYS journey in the 8th grade. Being a part of such a large program, he has seen many great musicians come and go during his experience in HYS. Surrounded by other talented musicians it was never a dull moment in every rehearsal. Not only did he enjoy playing music with others but also created many connections and friendships throughout his journey in the music industry. Through HYS, Cuyler had learned that having great relationships and determination are what truly make a quality group of musicians. With a hard love for music, Cuyler had begun participating in many music programs and communities such as Pacific Music Institute, OBDA Select Band, UH West Oahu Band, Honolulu Wind Ensemble, Hawaii Symphonic Band, and UH Trombone Choir. The commitment through music had effectively pushed Cuyler to major in music at the University of North Texas School of Music. Experiencing many different sets of activities, he had created a strong system of support through his fellow colleagues, friends, and family. If anything was taken from his years in the music industry, the value of meeting new people and creating the strong bonds is important as a musician.

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Hawaii Youth Symphony

Natalie Narito

Youth Symphony I, Clarinet / Hawaii Baptist Academy

appreciate the experiences I gained from being a part of the Hawaii Youth Symphony. Besides learning from the talented musicians I play with, I’m grateful that I’ve been able to make new friends from different schools. I’ll never forget the efforts and dedication my fellow peers have demonstrated despite having such busy schedules. As my time playing with HYS comes to a close, I’ll always carry this life lesson: mistakes are inevitable, but these mistakes make music so rewarding. A musician afraid of making mistakes will never enjoy playing his or her instrument — music doesn’t seek perfection, but rather happiness from those who indulge in it. I wouldn’t have been able to realize this if it wasn’t for the inspirational mentors in my life. I would like to thank Mr. Shimizu for being an encouraging band director, Miss Lynne for her passion for teaching clarinet, Mr. Stepec for sharing his knowledge of music, and my family for their support in everything.

Zoe Oda

Youth Symphony I, Violin / Roosevelt High School

usic has made a huge impact on my life since I was 7, when I started playing the violin. I then picked up flute and cello, and now participate in Roosevelt High School’s Symphonic Band (flute) and Orchestra, where I’ve been principal cellist the last three years. On violin, I began with Summer Strings, joined ISE then worked up to YSI, where I’ve been the last two years. HYS taught me the importance of diligence and making music; it gave me a sneak-peek of what professional musicians deal with. What I most enjoy about HYS is making friends from different schools and getting to perform in unique locations while spreading joy throughout the islands. I plan to major in music (performance and/or education) in a 4-year university (TBD). I would like to thank EVERYONE who impacted my musical learning. I can’t name everyone, but want to mention “Mr. Chad” Uyehara, Elton Masaki, Susan Ochi-Onishi, the Doike family, Janice Trubitt, Gregg Abe, Miki Yamamoto, and of course, Epic Stepec! I also want to thank all the amazing friends I’ve made through HYS, and give special thanks to my parents for supporting me and always giving me opportunities to extend my love for music. I’m very emotional about leaving something that’s been more than half my life, but am very excited about starting a new chapter.

Megan Ogasawara

Youth Symphony I, Violin / Mililani High School

eing a part of the Hawaii Youth Symphony is such an honor. I have gotten to meet a lot of amazing people who are so talented and who encourage me to keep playing music. It is nice to know other musicians outside of school. HYS has taught me commitment. To be honest, there are some Sundays where I just want to stay home and sleep in. But every time I got to rehearsal; I know it’s worth it. I’ve been very blessed to work with amazing clinicians and HSO staff. Not many students get to be this lucky. After high school, I plan on going to Linfield University to pursue a nursing degree. I also plan to join a symphony orchestra up in Oregon.

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Vincent Ogasawara

Youth Symphony I, Trumpet / Hawaii Baptist Academy

’ve been in YSI since my junior year and had the opportunity to skip CO and YSII. HYS has shown me to appreciate music through playing with the orchestra. It has taught me to enjoy either playing or listening to many different genres of classical music. Furthermore, I enjoy blasting away to Shostakovich. It’s always great to be able to play beside musicians who attempt and execute the same vision in my mind. Outside of playing in YS1, I’m in the Hawaii Baptist Academy Symphonic Wind Ensemble, and I participated in OBDA select band. Moreover, next year I will be attending Northwestern where I’ll be double majoring in Trumpet Performance and Biology.

Kauai Paule

Youth Symphony I, Violin / Punahou School

eing a part of YSI has been a remarkable experience. After being inspired by a concert performed by the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra, I started to take violin lessons in third grade and joined HYS Concert Orchestra in sixth grade. After taking lessons under Ms. Miki Hamada, I transferred to Mr. Ignace Jang in tenth grade. Since then, I have also been part of the Punahou Music Club, Punahou Symphony Orchestra, and Punahou Chamber Music Program. Besides practicing the violin, I enjoy participating in the Oahuan (Punahou’s yearbook), being involved in the Punahou School Japanese Immersion Program as a Teaching Assistant, and taking piano lessons under Mr. Steven Casano. In college, I intend to continue playing the violin and piano while pursuing molecular biology or biochemistry. My past seven years in HYS was truly a memory I can cherish for the rest of my life; I am tremendously grateful to Mr. Joseph Stepec, HYS Concert Parents and staff, and the friends I made in the orchestra for this experience.

Brandon Revilla

Youth Symphony II, Flute / Radford High School

randon Revilla has been a part of the HYS family for two years, first in CO, then in YSII. Brandon will be attending the University of North Texas College of Music in order to study Flute Performance and Music Education with Dr. Mary Karen Clardy. His passion for flute started when he started to study with Sabrina Saiki-Mita at Punahou Music School his 8th grade year. From 8th grade year to his senior year, he has grown, improved, and blossomed into an incredible musician as his experiences shaped his developing musicianship. He has taken part in various competitions like MTNA, Morning Music Club, Punahou Honors Recognition Recital, etc. and has performed with the Radford High school Marching band, OBDA Select Band, CBDF Honor Band,and the HYS family. Brandon hopes that he will be able to share his music to the world one day, create imagery and emotion within his listeners, as the ultimate goal of music is to share the art, which is what he is currently striving to improve on. No matter what happens, music will always be an enormous part of Brandon’s life, as his love for music displays his individuality and growth as a person.

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Hawaii Youth Symphony

MacKenzie Roberts

Concert Orchestra, Bassoon / Waipahu High School

nlike other schools, Waipahu doesn’t have an orchestra. I thought it would be a good idea to expand my experiences rather than just playing with a band, so I decided to try out. Hearing string instruments in the ensemble you’re in for the first time is an extremely interesting experience. The first time I walked into the band room and heard the strings, it almost felt like the music floated around the room. I think it’s such an amazing opportunity to give so many people a chance to learn, grow, and develop into better musicians no matter their age. You also get to meet new people and make new friends. So not only do you grow as a musician, but also as a person. I am very grateful to even have been a part of this experience even if it was only for a year.

Maysa Segovia

Youth Symphony I, Bass / Mililani High School

enjoyed making lasting friendships over the years that I have been a member of the Youth Symphony. I liked playing challenging music that helped me to improve my skills over these years. Being a part of the Youth Symphony since elementary school has helped me build my self-confidence and allowed me to excel in the orchestras at Mililani High School. This year I was Mililani High School’s Trojan Battalion Commander for JROTC and participated on the Girls Water Polo team. I plan on attending UH Mānoa’s language program this fall with a major in Chinese. I will also be joining ROTC at UH. I am thankful to have been a part of this program since such a young age and looking forward to traveling with the UH orchestra and Mr. Stepec this summer.

Fiona Sievert

Youth Symphony I, Viola / Mid-Pacific Institute

n the day of my first audition for HYS, I was shaking like a leaf, but I played my piece, left the room without collapsing -- and was ecstatic when I was accepted into the Concert Orchestra! To date, I have been playing with HYS for five years, the last three in YSI. I most enjoy the Listen and Learn concerts, which instill excitement about music in young students. I hope that music will play a positive role in their lives, just as it has in mine, teaching me life lessons in areas such as commitment, time management, sacrifice, communication, and observation. In addition to music, my interests include filmmaking, creative writing, and learning languages. Last year, I was honored when one of my short films was chosen for the student showcase at the Hawaii International Film Festival, and when I was selected for both a creative-writing exchange program and a Chinese language immersion program. As for the future, I plan to attend a four-year university (TBD) in the fall and, although I remain undecided about my major, I am certain that I will continue to play the viola!

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Frank Sun

Youth Symphony I, Viola / Punahou School

y chance, I was recommended to join YSII in 8th grade, and from there I have had the distinct pleasure of playing with YSI for four years. My music education began with piano in elementary school, and then the viola starting in 7th grade. I could never have imagined that I would take the viola this far, and yet here I am playing in YSI, the Punahou Symphony Orchestra, and the Punahou Chamber Music program. For four years, my time in YSI has been nothing but a privilege—both to experience a rich genre of music and to share it with incredibly talented and kind peers. In my free time, I like to read about math and history, and I love to watch and play basketball with my friends, who I credit no small part in helping me get to where I am. I hope to go to college on the mainland where I intend to study economics or computer science. Thank you to Craig Young and Dr. Jonas Carlson for working so tirelessly to support me, everyone at HYS for all the weekends and hours they put in, my parents for pushing me into music even when I may have resisted, and all my peers for the camaraderie and memories.

Kylee Takanishi

Youth Symphony I, Violin / ’Iolani School

n her first day of YS, shy Kylee cried and missed half the rehearsal! Today, she is so happy that she stayed with HYS for 10 straight years since grade 3. Making music with inspiring young men and women who also love music has been amazing. Outside of HYS, Kylee is the co-captain of the ’Iolani diving team, Co-president of the Slam Poetry club, founder and President of the ASMR club, and conducts independent research. She loves ’Iolani’s Orchestra 5, her Scholarship Quartet members, and enjoys tutoring energetic and enthusiastics young violinists and violists twice a week. After 14 years of violin, Kylee doesn’t want a future without it. In addition to music, she hopes to become a doctor because she is passionate about helping others. Kylee is forever grateful to Mrs. Hafner, who inspires deep understanding of the intricacies of music and who generously shares her expertise and the gift of her musical genealogy. A shoutout to Aris, Stepec, our concertmaster, and everyone for being individual sparkles that together make YSI shine. Kylee says, ’Domo arigato gozaimasu,” to her Super Mommy, Wise Dad, Crazy Sister, Lauryn, and her friends who create adventures and make the world a kinder place.

Alec Tam

Youth Symphony I, Violin / ’Iolani School

ince joining YSII in 8th grade, Alec has appreciated the countless Sunday rehearsals creating music with friends in large, cold rooms. When Alec moved to Hawai’i from California, he was uncomfortable in the island’s humidity and alienated by a lack of friends. YSII rehearsals gave him a reason to leave the house on the weekends. Alec will always cherish his memories with friends in rehearsals and neighbor-island trips. Alec spent two years in YSII and three in YSI. Although at times he was reluctant to pick up his violin, the lessons of patience and persistence he has learned from his various, wonderful mentors have been invaluable. Alec would like to especially express his gratitude for his violin instructor, Ms. Maile Reeves for her endless support and compassion towards his interests and needs along his violin journey. Lastly, Alec would like to thank HYS for teaching him MuSic iS a riGht nOt a Privilege.

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Hawaii Youth Symphony

Cara Tan

Youth Symphony I, Cello / ’Iolani School

ara began learning cello at age eight in HYS’s Beginning Strings Ensemble. She has participated in every one of Hawaii Youth Symphony’s string ensembles and symphonic groups before making it into YSI in her junior year. At ʻIolani School, Cara is also a member of the orchestra program and plays in a string quartet. HYS has allowed her to meet new people, develop a greater appreciation for music, and learn to be fifteen minutes early to rehearsals. She would like to continue music as a hobby in college where she intends to pursue a career in healthcare. Lastly, Cara is extremely grateful towards her mentors, Mr. Jeff Hamano and Dr. I-Bei Lin, for helping her grow as a cellist, and she is also thankful to her parents for their never-ending support.

Cody Tanaka

Youth Symphony II, Flute / Kailua High School

enjoyed the experience of being in an ensemble with strings because they gave a different vibe from the usual band sounds I’m used to. My favorite part of the season was making the elementary kids laugh at the listen and learn concerts. A life lesson I learned in HYS is that too much of anything can be bad, except practicing scales and chromatics. I will apply what I’ve learned to future endeavors by remembering to master the basic motions before trying anything advanced. In addition to being a HYS member, I have played for Kailua High School’s soccer, cross country, track, soft tennis, tennis, paddling, math, and marching band teams. I also like to pick up shiny things, eat potatoes (any form), watch quality tiktok videos, find dodo birds, paint continents, and drive my sister insane. When I graduate from high school, I plan to major in mechanical engineering, minor in music, and diminish the number of bad jokes I tell at the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa. Thanks dad, mom, aunty Jeri, Mr. Jeff, Mrs. Liou, and Mr. Kitano for supporting me in music and in life.

Nicolas Tanaka

Youth Symphony I, Violin / Kamehameha School

hether that be learning new rhythms or adjusting to play in a section, playing the violin in YSI has greatly expanded upon my musical journey in high school. YSI has taught me how to perform in a large orchestral group, keeping me aware of all of the moving parts that fit together. It has also exposed me to different pieces and styles, adding to my passion of listening to classical music. Aside from HYS, I am the president of my school’s math team, and the concertmaster of my school’s sinfonietta. I also enjoy sailing for my school’s Varsity I team and solving math and physics problems. I plan to attend college on the mainland next fall, pursue a degree in engineering, and continue playing the violin. I would like to thank Daniel Shaver, Joseph Stepec, Elton Masaki, and the HYS staff for helping me progress through the many challenges along my journey. I am grateful for all of the experiences that I have gained through YSI, and the new friends that I have made over the years.

2016 Spring Concert Series

Celebrating Our 55th Season

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Sherry Tanaka

Youth Symphony I, Flute / Kalani High School

herry has been playing flute in HYS for five years. Starting off in YSII for one year, followed by four years in YSI. She is a senior at Kalani High School and participated in events such as Solo & Ensemble, Select Band, and Hawai’i State Music Competition. She plans to attend the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa starting the Fall of 2020, where she plans to play in the UH band and/or Orchestra to continue her musical journey after high school. In her free time, Sherry likes to bake, travel, and volunteer. The Hawaii Youth Symphony has taught her the importance of music and the cooperation that it takes from every single member of the orchestra to make a successful and meaningful performance. HYS has been an experience of a lifetime, making new friends from other schools across the island and being able to meet and work with the amazing staff at HYS. Sherry would like to thank her parents Dean and Takako Tanaka as well as her sibling, Chelsea Tanaka for their ever-lasting support and for the work they’ve put into supporting her.

Noah Taniguchi

Youth Symphony I, Viola / ’Iolani School

oah has been a member of HYS for four years, playing in CO and YSII for one year each and YSI for the last two. He learned to play the violin at school in the fourth grade and switched to the viola two years later. Noah has enjoyed the experience of playing in a symphony orchestra and the opportunity to play great music, work with many talented musicians, teachers, and conductors, and meet new people. In addition to playing in his school orchestra, Noah enjoys robotics and would like to study engineering in college. Noah appreciates the tremendous support he received on his musical journey from his family and wishes to thank HYS conductors Wayne Fanning, Hannah Watanabe, Elton Masaki, Susan OchiOnishi, John Devlin and Joseph Stepec for the opportunity to play in their orchestras, teachers Kathy Hafner, Joan Wehrman, Alex Peña, Colin Belisle, and Steve Flanter for their encouragement and patience, and the HYS board and staff, concert parents, and volunteers for making his experience with HYS possible.

Marcy Tokunaga

Youth Symphony I, Harp / St. Andrew’s School

have been involved in HYS for three and a half years. I entered HYS in the second semester of YSII as a freshman to fill in the harp part. Then, I moved up to YSI for my sophomore year, continuing for three years. An unexpected, yet interesting thing for me was to be able to play other instruments besides the harp, which were the piano in YSII, the canon sound, and the tam tam for YSI. HYS taught me the joy of performing for the community with other talented musicians and amazing conductors, collaborating with professional musicians and guest artists, and the importance of musical education. In addition to being a member of HYS, I have been taking piano lessons for 13 years, harp lessons for five years, a percussionist and a synthesizer for St. Andrew’s Priory’s Select Wind Ensemble, a harpist and pianist for St. Andrew’s Priory’s Chamber Strings, and a basketball player for St. Andrew’s Priory’s Basketball Team. After I graduate, I will attend the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa to study piano, and possibly Japanese and education. I would like to thank HYS for this amazing opportunity, and cherish the memories I made with everyone.

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Hawaii Youth Symphony

Rylee Toma

Youth Symphony II, Violin / Mid-Pacific Institute

started playing the violin in the 4th grade and started my journey with the Hawaii Youth Symphony in middle school. I now attend MidPacific Institute, where I also participate in their orchestra as the concertmaster. As a member of the Hawaii Youth Symphony, I have learned so many things and had some of the best experiences of my life. My favorite part of HYS was getting to play with people that had a deep appreciation of music and were devoted to creating something beautiful as a team. Throughout these years, I discovered how much I appreciate playing with other musicians. I had the chance to meet people with as much passion for music as me and created friendships that I will cherish as I start a new beginning off in college. Once I graduate, I will be attending a school in Santa Barbara to study liberal arts. I plan to continue learning music, and my goal is to play in one of the orchestras on the mainland. I am very grateful for everything the Hawaii Youth Symphony has done for me and will remember all that I’ve learned as I practice to become a better musician.

Adrian Tran

Youth Symphony II, Bass / ’Iolani School

ollowing his first year of playing the bass, Adrian entered HYS’s Academy Strings Program in SOE. After a year with SOE, he played with CO and YSII for 2 years each. Adrian enjoyed playing music with Hawaii’s young musicians and learning about their personal stories. The most valuable lesson that he learned from playing with HYS is the importance of serving the community around him. Thanks to HYS, Adrian spends his time helping family, friends, peers, and the public; furthermore, he plans to continue serving others. Outside of HYS, Adrian plays the bass in ’Iolani School’s Orchestra 5, and has appeared in other music groups in Hawaii. Outside of orchestra, Adrian enjoys spending time with his friends and family, helping other students with schoolwork, volunteering in various groups, or catching Z’s. At the moment, Adrian does not know which school he will attend after graduating from ’Iolani; however, he plans to pursue a 4-year degree, study materials engineering, and stay in the United States.

Emily Uetake

Youth Symphony I, Cello / Roosevelt High School

mily has been a part of the Hawaii Youth Symphony for three years starting off in the Concert Orchestra before working her way to YSI. The best memories she made during her time in HYS has been making a lot of new friends and going on the Kaua’i Tour. The most important thing being in HYS taught her was to never give up and to be confident in yourself. Besides performing in HYS, she also takes dance and acrobatics classes at Prisma Dance Studio. In the fall of 2020, she’s planning to attend UH Mānoa and isn’t sure of her exact plans but is considering a major in psychology in hopes to lead to a profession in criminal justice.

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Celebrating Our 55th Season

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Shankara Varma

Jazz Combo I, Alto Saxophone & Flute / ’Iolani School

hile attending Kaimuki Middle School, Shankara had his early sights set on auditioning to play flute for the Hawai’i Youth Symphony. Shankara would have never thought he would actually wind up squished between a stylish guitar god, a marching band trombonist, and a piano player possessing multi-million-dollar hands playing nothing but 100% pure, uncut jazz. When not consumed by loads upon loads of Bach, Shankara was always encouraged by his father to improvise. After developing a burning passion for jazz entering high school, Shankara, then a mediocre saxophone player, began to delve into the world of one of America’s only original art forms. Shankara’s dream to play in HYS had vanished until aforementioned guitar player, Nicadrio Lee, invited him to join the new HYS Jazz Combo under the direction of virtuosic bass player, Dean Taba. Shankara has since loved his time in the Combo as well as other HYS sponsored events, mostly because of the plethora of opportunities to play, the amazing friends he has made, and the priceless tutelage he has received over the past couple of years. Shankara hopes to become a career jazz musician and WILL continue playing well into his eighties.

Ryder Watanabe

Youth Symphony I, Trumpet / Hawaii Baptist Academy

feel very grateful for the chance to be in YSI this year. YSI has taught me to love music and to work hard in order to get the best experience out of the music I perform. YSI has also taught me the joy of putting a piece of music together with my peers. There are many things about YSI that I enjoy. One thing I enjoy is the people in YSI. I have so many memories of the amazing players that I have the privilege to play with. Not only are they gifted in music, but they are really fun to be around, and they make the long hours of rehearsal bearable. A life lesson I have learned from YSI is to always enjoy music. Sometimes I get frustrated with my playing but YSI has reminded me the reason why I perform, because I enjoy it. Outside of YSI I also play in Hawaii Baptist Academy’s Symphonic Wind Ensemble and I recently played in OBAMA’s high school Select Band. This coming spring, I will be attending Portland State University where I will major in Architecture and hopefully minor in musical performance.

Karen Watarida

Youth Symphony I, Flute / Kalani High School

efore having joined the Hawaii Youth Symphony in my freshman year, I had zero knowledge of this program ever existing. If it hadn’t been for my teacher, Mrs. Aileen Kawakami, I would not be where I am in life today, which I am utterly grateful for. Having started the flute in the fourth grade, I was a very clueless child who never imagined how much this instrument would mean to her and the opportunities it would take her to. Being in YSII from my freshman and sophomore year, followed by YSI from my junior and senior year has been a challenging yet rewarding experience. Perseverance, discipline, and respect are few among the many valuable life lessons I have obtained an understanding of, which I see myself applying throughout my future endeavors. In addition to HYS, I am also principal flute of the Kalani High School Wind Ensemble, and former flute section leader and drum major of the Kalani HS Falcon Marching Band. Throughout this wonderful journey that has shaped me into who I am, I would like to share my utmost gratitude to Mrs. Susan Ochi-Onishi, Mr. Dennis Kaneshiro, Mrs. Aileen Kawakami, Mr. Joseph Stepec, friends, and lastly, my family who has been there to support me since day one. I am currently undecided in which institution I will be attending as well as a major, but I am planning on following a pre-med track. I hope to continue this passion of mine throughout college and beyond, and continue making countless memories through the beauty of music. 30 Hawaii Youth Symphony 30 | Class of 2020 Hawaii Youth Symphony

Max Womack

Youth Symphony I, Violin / Moanalua High School

he day I turned four my musician parents handed me a violin and demanded that I start learning how to play. I hated it. Like I hated the next seven years with their many days of intense, torturous practice. Now that I’m older and definitely know everything there is to know, I’ve realized that the ability to perform is a worthwhile endeavor, something to be proud of. I began HYS in 9th grade, and blessed (not at all disrupted) YSI with my presence in 11th and 12th grades. HYS was a completely new experience for me, one that changed my life since I met so many friends with whom I could play music discordantly, and on occasion, sonorously. Outside of HYS, I’m the associate concert master for the Moanalua Symphony Orchestra, and a member of Moanalua’s Con Passione ensemble, both of which have somehow been able to survive my membership. I also design posters and logos for the digital media program. In my free time I have begun to undertake the greatest of human aspirations: drawing cartoons. I also study all kinds of animated media to find inspiration for my own work (I promise it’s not just watching TV, really). Next year, I enter the real world: art school. I plan to major in animation with a little graphic design, comedy, and maybe computer science on the side. Oh, and music too. Turns out I don’t hate it after all.

Alexandrea Wong

Youth Symphony II, Violin / St. Andrew’s School

lthough this is her first year in Hawaii Youth Symphony, Alex started off playing the piano for five years until sixth grade, where she started to play the violin in her school orchestra with orchestra director, Mr. Uyehara. Mr. Uyehara has been one of the driving forces of her progress on the violin and motivated her to audition for HYS. Her journey in music has taught her more than just rhythms and notes, but rather unforgettable life lessons and values such as perseverance, focus, and patience. She has grown so much in HYS and she is grateful for all of the experiences HYS and orchestra has given her. In college, Alex hopes to go to the mainland to discover more about herself and career goals in addition to continuing her musical aspirations on a larger scale.

Shota Yamada

Concert Orchestra, Viola / Kalani High School

have been a HYS member for about 6-7 years. The first instrument I picked up was a violin when I was probably 10 or 11. I also played a little piano but mainly violin only. When I was in SOE I was never good at playing, but my private teacher taught me how to play the viola. I loved how the instrument sounded and this made me love music a lot more. I was not good at first, but it was a lot of fun. This is when I got to associate with music a lot more and I loved making and composing music. I currently take orchestra in Kalani High School. I am in CO and my viola friends or “viola gang” are great people and we helped each other when we needed it. HYS has taught me to play in a group and help each other. I will continue to study music in college planning to attend UH. I appreciate and thank all the support from friends, teachers and family to get where I am.

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Erena Yamatsu

Youth Symphony I, Flute / ’Iolani School

fter starting the piano at age four, Erena grew a love for music and eventually picked up six other instruments, one of them being the violin. Erena played violin for what felt like a long five years and was signed up to audition for YSII. However, a week before the audition, she decided she did not want to audition with violin. Thus, her mother only agreed to rescind the audition agreement only if she agreed to audition on flute instead. This is how Erena’s HYS career started. She is now a part of Youth Symphony I as well as ’Iolani School’s marching band, wind ensemble, and Orchestra 5. Through HYS, Erena has been able to create new friendships and connections which she is very thankful for. She has studied flute with Sayaka Kanamori for about two years, and currently studies with Lance Suzuki, whom she has been taking lessons from for the past couple of years. She would like to thank all of her private teachers and the HYS staff for the opportunity of playing in the symphony and for always supporting her. Although she does not intend to major in music, she plans to be involved in her college band, and plans to attend graduate school.

Brandon Yee

Youth Symphony I, Violin / Punahou School

randon started off in Hawaii Youth Symphony’s BSE, where he could hold up his violin without both hands for three minutes. Four years after BSE, he found himself in YSII, before joining YSI in junior year under Dr. Devlin. Outside of HYS, Brandon has been heavily involved in student government for four years and enjoys peer-tutoring students in the school library. During his free time, he enjoys visiting art museums, reading the news, and listening to classical music. He is immensely grateful for Ms. Helen Higa, Ms. Asia Doike, and Ms. Joan Doike for helping him grow as a musician. He would also like to thank all his orchestra conductors at Punahou and HYS. Lastly, he would like to thank his mom and dad for all their love and support. Brandon will be attending Yale University in the Fall.

Hunter Yokoyama

Youth Symphony I & Jazz Combo I, Trombone / Hawaii Baptist Academy

’m grateful to be in YSI and Combo I for my last year of high school. Youth Symphony has shown me how to enjoy music through playing with the orchestra. It has taught me to enjoy either listening or playing in many different genres and how to express my feelings through making music. I enjoy creating an emotion with the amazing players around me when playing a selected piece. It’s always great to be able to play with such friendly and talented players who are also trying to create the best product possible. Outside of playing in YSI, I’m in the Hawaii Baptist Academy Symphonic Wind Ensemble, UH jazz band, Combo 1, and recently played with OBDA Highschool Select Band. This next year I will be attending the University of Hawai’i, where I will be majoring in Biology and minoring in Music.

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Leon Yoshida

Youth Symphony I, Violin / Punahou School

have been part of HYS for four years starting in fourth grade with the SOE orchestra and later joining the YSII and YSI orchestras. I have also been part of the Punahou Symphony Orchestra for four years. I am thankful to have been given the opportunity to take private lessons from a young age which allowed me to achieve my goal of joining YSI. I would like to thank Dr. Nikki Routman Ebisu for being my violin instructor for the past 12 years and helping me become the musician I am today. I would also like to thank Mr. Colin Belisle for helping me throughout my musical journey and Mrs. Rosy Wong for the piano lessons. HYS has given me the opportunity to meet people from different schools and grades who all value the important lessons music has to offer. HYS has taught me how to become independent and a better performer. Through HYS, I not only improved my musicianship, but I learned skills such as the importance of responsibility and self-motivation which I plan on using for the rest of my life. I plan on pursuing business in college on the mainland and also continuing my musical journey by joining the orchestra program.

David Young

Youth Symphony II, Trombone / Homeschool

s a homeschooler, large group activities such as sports clubs and bands are usually not opportunities that come across often. It is for this reason why I am grateful for being a member of HYS. Through the six years of attending, HYS allowed me the experience of what rehearsing and performing in a group feels like, preserved my motivation of practicing music, and helped me grow by pushing me outside of my comfort zone. The life lesson that HYS and my lessons taught me would be the motivation and the consistency to practice at or towards a certain goal over a long period of time. Along with playing trombone, I enjoy participating in robotics, performing in drama, engaging in physical/outdoors activities, and watching anime. Although I will not be majoring in music, I do wish to continue to be active in music. What I am planning to major in is engineering, specifically electrical; however, as of now, I am still deciding if I should reciprocate my acceptance to UH or Wheaton.

Charles Yung

Youth Symphony I, Violin / Punahou School

harles first joined HYS in 8th grade, playing the violin in YSII. As a freshman, he joined YSI under Henry Miyamura, and has enjoyed his experience in YSI for the last four years under the direction of Mr. Henry Miyamura, Dr. John Devlin, and Mr. Joseph Stepec. In his free time, Charles enjoys playing tennis, and listening to hip-hop and R&B music. He would like to thank his violin teacher Mr. Ignace Jang, HYS conductors Mr. Henry Miyamura, Dr. John Devlin, and Dr. Joseph Stepec, and his high school conductors Dr. Jonas Carlson and Mr. Craig Young for making his high school musical experience memorable. Charles will graduate from Punahou School and attend Grinnell College, where he will participate in collegiate tennis as well as study biology.

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Mahalo to Our Donors Hawaii Youth Symphony is grateful for these generous gifts, made between July 1, 2018 and April 15, 2020. We deeply appreciate all of our donors; their courage and passion to make music education affordable to Hawaii’s youth is extremely commendable! Mahalo! CONDUCTOR’S CIRCLE ($25,000 and up)

ABC Stores Altres, Inc. Anonymous Cades Foundation City & County of Honolulu, Department of Community Services First Hawaiian Bank Foundation George Mason Fund of the Hawaii Community Foundation Hawaii State Foundation on Culture and the Arts John R. Halligan Charitable Fund McInerny Foundation Dr. Ross Tanoue The Al Sherman Foundation Top of Waikiki Revolving Restaurant PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE ($10,000–$24,999)

Governor & Mrs. Benjamin Cayetano Mrs. Gladys Hirano Ho’okele Award of the Hawaii Community Foundation Gloria Kosasa Gainsley Fund of the Hawaii Community Foundation Susan M. Kosasa Fund of the Hawaii Community Foundation Dr. & Mrs. Thomas Kosasa Island Insurance Foundation Johnson Ohana Foundation Ms. Sharon Himeno & Mr. Warren Price III Mr. & Mrs. Richard Ing Mr. & Mrs. Steven Katzman William K.H. Mau Foundation Daniel & Allison Rose Family Revocable Trust Dr. Lynn Tanoue The Carnegie Hall Corporation The LRY Charitable Foundation The Resort Group Ms. Ginny Tiu Mr. & Mrs. Kent Tsukamoto 34 34 | Donors

ANGEL ($5,000-$9,999)

Action Realty Corporation Aloha International Piano Festival Aloha United Way Avalon Commercial, LLC Bank of Hawaii Becker Communications, Inc. Blacksand Capital, LLC Foodland Super Market, Ltd. Dr. & Mrs. Stephen Gainsley Hawaii Permanente Medical Group Mr. & Mrs. Kendall N. H. Hee Mr. Bob Hayashi Mr. Martin Hsia, Esq. Kathleen Sullivan Wo Charitable Fund Mr. & Mrs. Malcolm S. Koga Mr. David Leong Mr. Malcolm D. Lau Ms. Patti Look Mr. & Mrs. Alika Mau Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Momohara Mr. & Mrs. Michael Onofrietti Pacific Property Group, Inc. Dr. & Mrs. Geoffrey S. Sewell Sheridan and Julia Ing Family Foundation Shidler Family Foundation SKY Waikiki Mr. & Mrs. Brian C. Stapleton Teruya Brothers, Limited Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Toyama The Ebbtide Family Fund Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Williams Trinity Real Estate Investments LLC Ward Village Foundation Mr. Randy Wong & Dr. Helen Liu Wong BENEFACTOR ($2,500–$4,999)

Alexander & Baldwin, Inc. Ms. Lorraine Araki Mr. & Mrs. Alan Arizumi Castiglione A. Casauria Foundation

Mrs. Janet Cooke Dr. Sandi Kwee & Dr. Leilani Ka’anehe Dr. Steven Nishi & Dr. Pamela Tauchi-Nishi Mr. & Mrs. Owen Fukumoto FundDevelopment Group Mr. & Mrs. Helen Higa Mr. & Mrs. Douglas Hung Jonathan Y. C. Ching Revocable Trust Katherine Chiu Trust Mr. & Mrs. James Kinoshita Mr. & Mrs. Robert Kurisu Mr. & Mrs. W. Peter Kwong Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Lau Masaki School of Music Ms. Erica Mau Mr. & Mrs. Manuel Mejia Mr. Gilbert Miyasato Mr. Geneson Coloma & Ms. Theresa Kiehm Sullivan Family of Companies Tanaka of Tokyo Restaurants Ms. Jennifer Taylor Mr. Lance Teruya The Dods Foundation The Gift Foundation Mr. & Mrs. Robert Torrey Waikiki Shopping Plaza Mr. & Mrs. Ronald Wo Mr. & Mrs. Michael J.Y. Wong Mr. & Mrs. Vernon Wong PATRON ($1,000 - $2,499)

Ms. Heather Arias De Cordoba Bank of America Foundation Mr. & Mrs. Esther Cartoon Mr. & Mrs. Yong Ho Choe CK Violins Mr. Kenin Coloma Mr. & Mrs. Herbert Conley Mr. & Mrs. Kyle Davis Mr. & Mrs. Brian Doyle Mr. Peter Drewliner Peter Drewliner Foundation Elite Pacific Construction, Inc. Christina Farala Mr. & Mrs. Carlton Gushiken

Hawaii Youth Symphony

Hazel H. Takumi Foundation Hdg Inc. Ho’ea - the Foundation Bill Holowecki Mr. & Mrs. Jay Ifshin Island Insurance Companies Mr. Sukhan Kim & Ms. Jung Joo Shim Ms. Juli Kimura Walters Mr. & Mrs. Roy King, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Paul Kosasa Mr. Richard Kurth Dr. Jay Kwon & Mrs. Natalie Woo Marcus & Associates, Inc. Dr. Karen Miyamoto & Mr. Dan Miyamoto Ms. Cathy Monseur Mr. Randolph G. Moore & Ms. Lynne Johnson Mr. Xiang Yee & Ms. Jiangyan Zhu Mr. & Mrs. Ritchie Mudd Mr. & Mrs. Carl Nagasako Mr. & Mrs. David Nako National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences, Inc Dr. Dung Nguyen & Dr. Nguyet Le Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Oda Pikake Foundation Punahou - Music Club Mr. Raymon House & Mrs. Ann Wood-House Mr. & Mrs. Gavan Sagara Mr. Robert Saracco Ms. Barbara Smith Mr. & Mrs. Tom Soo Hoo Mr. & Mrs. Dean Taba Mr. & Mrs. Dean Tanaka Mr. & Mrs. Hiroshi Tauchi Mr. and Mrs. Leighton Taylor Mr. & Mrs. Chad Watarida Mr. & Mrs. Gaylord Wilcox Mr. & Mrs. Steve Yamane Ms. Valerie Yee Dr. Edward K. Yi & Dr. Susan Moriyama-Yi Mr. & Mrs. Randal Yoshimura SPONSOR ($500 - $999)

Ms. Lynn Aki-Steele Ms. Bonny Amemiya Mr. Anthony Chow & Dr. Myrna Kuo Mr. & Mrs. Russell Arakaki Arcadia Retirement Residence Mr. & Mrs. Kendrick Au Ms. Barbara Campbell Mr. & Mrs. Nathan Chang Dr. John Chen & Dr. Lillian Chen

Mr. & Mrs. Yongli Chen Dr. Yi-Chuan Ching Kin Hing Ching Choice Sheet Metal Mr. & Mrs. Darryn Chun Dr. Ruth Ono & Mr. Alfred Ono Mr. & Mrs. Dexter Ejercito Mr. & Mrs. Alex Fontanilla Fraternal Order of Moai Foundation Mr. & Mrs. Randal Furomoto Dr. & Mrs. Francisco Garcia Mr. & Mrs. Lance Hayashi Mr. & Mrs. Randall Hee Mr. & Mrs. Michael Hee Mr. & Mrs. Curtis Hiyane HMSA Mrs. Ann Ho Mr. & Mrs. Leslie Hong Mr. Collin Hoo Mr. & Mrs. Frank Hook Ms. Fujiko (Donna) Hughes Dr. Matthew Ikeda & Dr. Masako Ikeda Mr. & Mrs. Micah Kane Mr. & Mrs. Chester Kaneshiro Mr. & Mrs. Clyde Kawahara Mr. & Mrs. Randy Kawamura Dr. & Mrs. Toshihiko Kawasugi Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Kim Mr. & Mrs. Alex Kwon Ms. Mollie Lee Julian Leigh Mr. & Mrs. Arvin Leonzon Dr. Milton Liu LPL Financial Matching Gift Program Ms. Chelsea Maeda Ms. Natalie Mahoney Mr. Elton Masaki Mrs. Dorothy Mason Mrs. Jean McIntosh Mrs. Marion McKay Mr. & Mrs. William Meheula Matthew Miwa Dr. & Mrs. Wilfred Miyasaki Mr. & Mrs. Nathan Momohara Mr. & Mrs. David Monk Mr. Peter Li & Mrs. Fiona Leung Eleanor Nakasone-Amaguin Network For Good Mr. & Mrs. Chris Nielsen Mr. & Mrs. Dan Nishikawa Mrs. Doris Ogawa Ms. Sandi Okamoto Mr. & Mrs. Angel Pablo Mr. & Mrs. Keith Sakamoto Mr. & Mrs. Jonn Saruwatari Ms. Faith Sato

2016 Spring Concert Series

Celebrating Our 55th Season

Schwab Charitable Fund Mr. & Mrs. Patricia Sekiya Mr. & Mrs. Alves Shiu Brayden Silva Dr. Namthip Sitachitta & Mr. Wesley Yoshida Gwyneth Tenn Mr. & Mrs. Barry Toshi Max Villanueva Walmart Foundation Mrs. Louise Wong Mr. & Mrs. Steven Wong Wong’s Drapery Shoppe Ms. Mildred Yee Mr. Todd Yokoyama & Ms. Daryle Ann Ho Dr. Mark Yoshida Mr. & Mrs. Keith Yoshimoto PARTNER ($250–$499)

Ms. Carol Aki American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers Mr. & Mrs. Jeff Arce Mrs. L. Christine Ban Mr. & Mrs. Mitch Blaisdell Mr. Merle Bratlie Mr. Kirk Caldwell & Ms. Donna Tanoue Mr. & Mrs. Mark Caliri Carole Sheridan Memorial Fund of the Hawaii Community Foundation Ms. Carolyn Chang Ms. Martha Child Mr. & Mrs. Lance Chun Ms. Elizabeth Coraggio Mr. & Mrs. R. Dougal Crowe Mrs. Lynn Dagli DBA Island Appraisals Mr. Andy Detra & Ms. Martha Seroogy Mr. & Mrs. John Devlin Dr. Kelley Woodruff & Mr. Benjamin Marx Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas Dreher Mr. Ed Elms & Ms. Elizabeth Wong Friends of Italy Society of Hawaii Randal S. Furomoto & Associates, Inc. Mr. Terry George Drs. William & Jodi Goh Mr. Gordon Hammond Mr. & Mrs. Troy Hatakenaka Hawaii State Federal Credit Union Hawaii Youth Opera Chorus Dr. Mii Hawkins

Donors | 35

Partner (Continued)

HEI Charitable Foundation Mr. & Mrs. Garry Higa Mr. J. F. Hilton Mrs. Maryellen Ing Mr. Ignace Jang Ms. Cherry Ann Kaiaokamalie Mr. & Mrs. Galen Kawasaki Ms. Yoon-Jee Kim Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Kohara Dr. Cherilyn Lai-Kadooka & Mr. Chris Kadooka Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Luxton Mr. & Mrs. Keith Matsumoto Ms. Mariko Miho Ms. Jennifer Miyamoto Mr. & Mrs. Roy Miyamoto Mr. Burr McCutcheon & Ms. Claire Arakaki Mr. Edwin Muroki Mr. & Mrs. Shigeo Nakazaki Mr. & Mrs. Travis Niimi Mr. & Mrs. James Nishi The Hon. & Mrs. Dean Ochiai Mr. & Mrs. Raymond Okada Mr. & Mrs. Randal Omon Ms. Charlynn Ortiz Mr. & Mrs. William Ota Mr. & Mrs. Charles Park Dr. & Mrs. Robert Peters Mr. Steven Premo Prof. David Ross & Ms. Ann Castelfranco Ms. Corynn Sakamura Mr. & Mrs. Takahiro Sato Mr. Daniel Shaver Myles & Wanda Shibata Fund of the Hawaii Community Foundation Mr. & Mrs. Grant Shimabukuro Ms. Doris Shimabukuro Ms. Sheryl Shohet Ms. SaraLyn Smith Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence So Dr. Alex Suenaga & Ms. Kay Mattos Mr. & Mrs. John Sylvester Mr. & Mrs. Marvin Taba Dr. Stacey Takanishi & Mr. Dale Takanishi Ms. Patricia Takemoto Mr. Larry Takumi & Ms. Jo-Ann Komori Mr. & Mrs. Herman Tam Ms. Brenda Tang Ms. Amy Taniguchi Ms. Teresa Tauchi Mr. & Mrs. Derek Tenn Mr. & Mrs. Mark Tomomitsu

36 | Donors

Mrs. Janice Trubitt Drs. Robert & Linda Weiner Ms. Karis Whi Mrs. Nancy White Mr. & Mrs. Kurt Winner Mr. & Mrs. Grant Yee CONTRIBUTOR ($100-$249)

Mr. Chad Adams Mr. Devin Alford & Ms. M’Liss Moore Mr. & Mrs. William Alicar Mr. & Mrs. Mark Anderson Mr. Larry Anderson Angy’s Handmade Delights Mr. & Mrs. Darin Auyoung Ms. Melissa Noelani Baladad Ms. Mary Bertolino Mr. Joel Bradshaw & Ms. Jean Kirschenmann Mr. & Mrs. Philip Brown Mr. & Mrs. Volkan Buyukacar Mr. & Mrs. Steven Casano Mr. & Mrs. John Chang Mr. Clifford Char Dr. Hong-Ru Chen Mr. Paul Chen & Mrs. Cheryl Okado Mr. & Mrs. Christopher Ching Mr. & Mrs. Christopher Choy Mr. Daniel Chun Mr. Clifford Cordeiro & Ms. Naoko Miyamoto Craigside Retirement Residence The Hon. Lea Crandall & Mr. David Schulmeister Mr. & Mrs. William Cumpston Mr. Peter Cumpston Mr. Dan Curran & Ms. Fatiha Kheddaoui Mr. & Mrs. Reid DeCastro Mrs. Donna Devlin Mr. Adam Dornbush Dr. Joann Ebesu & Mr. Eric Ebesu Mr. John Ellis & Ms. Jessica Wong Ms. Joanna Fan Mr. & Mrs. John Fielding Mr. & Mrs. Bob Fissell Messrs. Frank & Lee Goerner Ms. Diane Fujimura Rev. & Mrs. Yoshitaka Fujinami Mr. & Mrs. Alvin Fujioka John and Colette Garibaldi Mr. & Mrs. Richard Gilsdorf Mr. & Mrs. Scott Gomes Mr. & Mrs. Van Goto Mr. & Mrs. George Goto Mr. & Mrs. James Grumling

Esther Haas Mr. & Mrs. Ernest Hanaumi Mr. & Mrs. George Haraguchi Mr. Fred Harris Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Hashi Dr. Nina Hayashi Mr. Michael Hee Mr. & Mrs. Wayne Higuchi Ms. Susan Higuchi Mr. & Mrs. Mike Hirai Mr. Bill Ho & Ms. Laurene Taira Ms. Lauren Holt Mr. & Mrs. Robert Hong Hongwanji Mission School Honolulu Museum of Art Mr. Barrett Hoover Dr. & Mrs. John Houk Dr. Yujen Hsia Mr. & Mrs. Albert Hu Mr. Xin Huo & Ms. Xiaojin Zhou Mr. & Mrs. James Ibanez Ms. Lee Ann Ichimura Mr. & Mrs. Ronald Ihori Mr. & Mrs. Donald Ikeda Mr. & Mrs. George Irion Ms. Lori Isara Mr. & Mrs. Gordon Ishikawa Dr. & Mrs. David Iwasaki Ms. Ethel Iwasaki Mr. James Jurich & Ms. Ingrid Lim Dr. Jeffrey Lim & Dr. Marcia Nagao James K. Michishima, CPA Mr. Shaun Kaneshiro Ms. Linda Katsuki Ms. Ann Kawaguchi Ms. Morgan Kaya Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Keenan Mr. & Mrs. Tim Kelleher Dr. Richard Kennedy & Mr. Steven Prieto Mr. & Mrs. Ron Kikawa Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Dae Kim Mr. & Mrs. Mike Kobayashi Ms. Mary Ann Kobayashi Mr. Phillip Kuo Mr. & Mrs. Peter Kwong Dr. & Mrs. Salvatore Lanzilotti Col. & Mrs. Daniel Lau Dr. & Mrs. Matthew Lau Dr. & Mrs. Worldster Lee Dr. Bradford Lee Dr. & Mrs. Sidney Lee Dr. Len Tanaka & Dr. Jessica Chang Ms. April Leong Ms. Joycelyn Lerud Mr. Shichao Li & Ms. Haiying Wang

Hawaii Youth Symphony

Mr. Lloyd Lim Ms. Sara Lin Mr. & Mrs. Warren Loh Ms. Jadine London Mr. & Mrs. Vernon Loo Mr. Harry Loving, II & Ms. Thu Nguyen Ms. Cristina Luck Mr. & Mrs. Gordon Lum Meredith & Norma Maeda Ms. Ann Mahi Mr. & Mrs. Alfred Makino Mr. & Mrs. Charles Martin Mr. & Mrs. George Masaki Mr. & Mrs. Roy Masaki Ms. Pamela Masaki Ms. Naomi Masuda Mr. Edward Masunaga Mr. David Masunaga Mr. & Mrs. Fujio Matsuda Mr. & Mrs. Carl Matsuura Ms. Amy Mitsuda Casey Miyashiro Mr. Richard Monkman Dr. Sarah Mordan-McCombs Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Mori Ms. Audrey Mueh Mr. & Mrs. Keith Muraoka Dr. & Mrs. George Nagao Ms. Beverly Nagata Dr. Linda Nahulu Ms. Nola Nahulu Ms. Lisa Nakama Mr. & Mrs. Mark Nakamura Mr. Craig Nakamura Mr. Erwin Nell & Ms. Theres Gruter Ms. Kay Newnam Ms. Eugenia Ng Mr. & Mrs. Sam Ng Mr. Ian Nishi Mr. & Mrs. Melvin Nishina Niu Valley Middle School Mr. & Mrs. Glenn Nohara Ms. Wendy Nohara Mr. John Odle Mr. Bruce Okimoto Mr. Nathan Okinaka Mr. & Mrs. Glenn Okino Mr. & Mrs. Gordon Okuhara Mr. & Mrs. Clifford Okumoto Ms. Jeannette Omoto Mr. Henry Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neill & Ms. Carol Muranaka One Kalakaua Senior Living Orchid Isle Orchestra Dr. & Mrs. Tilden Osako Mr. & Mrs. William Oshima Mrs. Helen Oshio

Ms. Mildred Oshiro Ms. Saori Paule Mr. & Mrs. Froilan Revilla Mrs. Alexa Rofoli Mr. & Mrs. Ralph Sakauye Mrs. Miyoko Sasaki Ms. Janice Savidge Mr. Richard Scerbo Dr. Alec Schumacker Mr. & Mrs. William Seehafer Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Shimabuku Ms. Laurie Shimabukuro Mr. Ross Shimokawa Shinnyo-En Hawaii Mr. & Mrs. Leo Shiohira Dr. James Sim & Ms. Ying Xu Ms. Nancy Sonoda Ms. Susan Spangler Mr. Michael Sitch & Ms. Louise Ing Mr. & Mrs. Edward Sueoka Mr. & Mrs. Stan Sugiyama Mr. Lance Suzuki Ms. Wendy Tachikawa Mr. & Mrs. Loren Taguchi Mr. & Mrs. Clayton Takemoto Mr. & Mrs. Kent Tamai Ms. Beth Tamayose Mr. Ryan Tanaka Mr. Douglas Teraoka Mrs. Ethel Teruya Ms. Karen Thompson Ms. Kathy Todoki Ms. Monica Toguchi Mr. & Mrs. John Tokunaga Ms. Allison Tomisato Dr. Jennifer Townsend & Mr. Reid Townsend Ms. Kelli Trammell Mr. & Mrs. Jonathan Tran Mr. Ryan Tsukamoto Ms. Rochelle Uchibori Mr. & Mrs. Darin Uetake Mr. & Mrs. Ira Uradomo Mr. Allen Uyeda Rev. Msgr. Terrence Watanabe Mr. & Mrs. Frank Wei Mr. & Mrs. Tommaso Wiechmann Mr. Mike Wilson Mr. & Mrs. Donald Womack Ms. Audrey Wong Mr. & Mrs. Jim Wong Mr. & Mrs. Frederick Wood Mr. John Yamano & Ms. Sharon Nishi Mildred Yee Mr. Will Yeh Mr. & Mrs. Wesley Yoshihiro Mr. & Mrs. Burt Yoshimi

2016 Spring Concert Series

Celebrating Our 55th Season

Mr. Darwin Yoshioka Mr. Saburo Yoshioka Mr. & Mrs. Barak Younoszai Ms. T. Phyllis Zerbe Mr. Chao Zheng & Mrs. Zhen Fan FRIEND (Up to $99)

Ms. Beatrice Affron & Dr. Larry Scripp Ms. Kelsie Aguilera Mr. & Mrs. Robert Akinaka Ms. Rolenda Alama-Francis Neal Aoki Ms. Karynna Asao Ms. Jone Augustin Ms. Karen Baptist Mr. & Mrs. Edwin Barayuga Ms. Suellen Barton Mrs. Ellen Belconis Mrs. Carolyn Berry Dena Brennan Mr. Mark Brown Mr. Kenneth Burtness Mr. Richard Byron Mr. Matthew Carr Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Chang Mr. Eric Chang Mr. & Mrs. Derek Chinen Ms. Faye Ching Ms. Louise Ching Dr. George Chu & Ms. Diane Wong Ms. Carol Chun Ms. Michelle Cintron Mr. & Mrs. Ronnie Collado Mr. & Mrs. Ken Colombe Noumea Joelle Cornelio Mr. & Mrs. Leslie Crandall Mr. & Mrs. Wendell Dang Sharon de la Pena Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Devaney Mr. Edgardo Diaz & Mrs. Noelia Paez Mr. Howard Dicus Dr. & Mrs. Evan Dobelle Ms. Karyl Doi Mr. Jonathan Enos Mr. Andrew Everett Ms. Teresa Fabry Mr. Glenn Fernandez Mr. & Mrs. John Flanigan Ms. Sylvia Flores Ms. Julia Fujioka Dr. Karin Fujitani & Mr. Wes Waniya Mr. V. Randall Gard Mr. & Mrs. Jonathan Gochu Mr. Guy Kudo & Ms. Patrice Choy Mr. & Mrs. Tim Hagan

Donors | 37

Friend (Continued)

Mr. & Mrs. David Hamano Hanahauâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;oli School Ms. Yuko Harada Ms. June Harden Ms. Janna Healy Mr. & Mrs. Kenn Higa Mr. Reid Hinaga Mrs. Arlene Hiu Mr. & Mrs. Steven Ho Mr. & Mrs. Jon Hodge Mr. Robert Hsia Ms. Barbara Hudman Mr. & Mrs. Ivan Hung Mr. Brian Hunsaker Ms. Michelle Ige Mr. & Mrs. Douglas Ige Ms. Amanda Igeta Ms. Carolyn Ing Mrs. Molly Inouye Ms. Judy Iwamoto Mr. Devon Izumigawa Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Jim Kaahumanu Elementary School Mr. & Mrs. Guy Kamitaki Ms. Aiko Kanemitsu Mr. & Mrs. Gerald Kawaoka Mr. & Mrs. Ryan Kaya Mr. Guy Kellogg Sarah Kemble Verhoef Mr. & Mrs. Barry Kikuno Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Kim Mr. Dean Kishimoto Mr. Trent Kobayakawa Mr. Ernest Kobayashi Ms. Sylvia Koike Ms. Ingrid Kortvelesy Ms. Sandra Kunioka Mr. David Lammay Mr. & Mrs. Michael Lau Mrs. Debbe Lau Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Lau Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Lau Hee Mr. & Mrs. Garson Lee Ms. Elaine Lee Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Lee Mr. & Mrs. Darryl Lee Mr. Jeong Hoan Lee & Ms. Seon Hee Choi Dr. Tom Leland & Dr. Jean AdairLeland Ms. Juo Leung Mr. & Mrs. John Li Mr. Calvin Liu Mr. & Mrs. Ray Liu Ms. Jane Lovell Mr. Jeffery Lucero Mr. & Mrs. Raymond Lui Mr. & Mrs. Ryan Luke

38 | Donors

Mr. & Mrs. Michael Lum Ms. Leanne Lum Mr. Brian Maeshiro Mr. & Mrs. Chester Malins Mr. & Mrs. Richard Martin-Doike Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Mau Mr. Robert McLaren Mr. & Mrs. John Milford Mr. & Mrs. Seimasa Miyashiro Mr. & Mrs. Keith Miyashiro Mr. & Mrs. Janyce Miyashiro Ms. Janet Murphy Mr. Steven Murray Mr. David Nadeau Ms. Carol Nakaganeku Ms. Nicole Nakaoka Mr. & Mrs. Hao Nguyen Ms. Minh Nguyet Mr. & Mrs. Warren Nishimoto Mr. & Mrs. Ernest Nogawa Ms. Clara Ogate Mr. Glenn Okimoto Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Ono Ms. Myra Oshiro Dr. & Mrs. Clifford Park Mr. Presley Pang & Ms. Susan Pang Gochros Ms. Bonnie Pestana Mr. Barry Posadas Mr. & Mrs. Matthew Price Ms. Kathy Raymond Mrs. Muk Lan Leung Rice Mr. & Mrs. Roy Saito Mr. & Mrs. Todd Seeber Ms. Ruby Shimabukuro Tanner Shum Alexa Simao Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence Siu Ms. Laurie Skrzenta Mr. & Mrs. Randy Sobol Kevin Sumida Mr. Ron Sumida Ms. Tsuneko Taira Thomas Takara Masami Takeuchi Mr. & Mrs. Wayne Tanaka Ms. Sharon Tanigawa Ms. BJ Taum Mr. Phillip Thompson & Dr. Jean Shein Mr. Gary Todoki Mr. & Mrs. Glenn Toma Ms. Carol Tsang & Dr. Takuma Itoh Mr. & Mrs. Blaine Tsugawa Brent & Julia Watanabe Mr. & Mrs. Melvin Watarida Ms. Elizabeth Weatherford Mr. & Mrs. James Welsch

Carol Will Mary Williams Captain David Wilson Ms. Madeline Wong Ms. Sandra Wong Mr. & Mrs. Corey Yama Mr. & Mrs. Gary Yamamoto Mr. Koji Yamatsu Ms. Beryl Yanagi-Fujita Ms. Dale Yatsushiro Mr. Steven Yee Dr. Wumaier Yilamu & Ms. Tuerxun Halidan Ms. Sheri Yoshida Mr. & Mrs. Todd Yoshikawa Victor Young Mr. Bobby Yung & Mrs. Regina Sha Jing Zhao In Honor of

Dr. Benson H. Araki by Ms. Lorraine Araki Mrs. Laura Ing Baker by Mr. Michael Stitch & Ms. Louise Ing Mr. Jason C. Ban By Mrs. L. Christine Ban Ms. June Choi by Mr. Robert Hsia Ms. Lauren Dods by The Dods Foundation Dr. & Mrs. Steven Gainsley by Mr. & Mrs. Keith Matsumoto by Mr. & Mrs. Warren Nishimoto Dr. Yujen E. Hsia by Mr. Martin Hsia Jeon Jungkook by Dr. & Mrs. Sidney Lee Cyrus Kelawala by Jing Zhao Jonathan Kwon by Mr. & Mrs. Alex M. Kwon Mr. Malcolm Lau by Mrs. Maryellen Ing Maestro Henry Miyamura by Mr. & Mrs. George Goto by Ms. Sylvia S. Koike by Ms. Juli Kimura Walters by Dr. Mark M. Yoshida by Mr. Randy Wong & Dr. Helen Liu Ashley Muraoka by Mr. & Mrs. Keith Muraoka Devyn Niimi by Mr. & Mrs. Travis Niimi Erin Nishi & Punahou Music Club by Dr. Steven Nishi & Dr. Pamela Tauchi-Nishi by Ms. Teresa Tauchi

Hawaii Youth Symphony

Ellie Ochiai by The Hon. & Mrs. Dean E. Ochiai Punahou Music Club by Mr. & Mrs. Ronnie M. Collado by Mr. & Mrs. Daniel H. Devaney by Ms. Lauren Holt by Ms. Joanna Fan by Ms. Yuko Harada by Mr. & Mrs. Robert Hong by Ms. Barbara Hudman by Mr. Devon Izumigawa by Dr. Sandi Kwee & Dr. Leilani Kaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;anehe by Ms. Ingrid Kortvelesy by Mr. & Mrs. W. Peter Kwong by Mr. & Mrs. Garson Lee by Ms. Juo Miao Leung by Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Mau by Mr. Robert McLaren by Dr. Steven Nishi & Dr. Pamela Tauchi-Nishi by Mr. John Yamano & Ms. Sharon Nishi by Ms. Beverly Nagata by Mr. & Mrs. James Nishi by Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Okimoto by Ms. Saori H. Paule by Ms. Teresa Tauchi by Ms. Karen Thompson by Ms. Carol Will by Mr. Randy Wong & Dr. Helen Liu by Mr. & Mrs. Vernon. K. W. Wong Joseph Rothstein by Ronald Ihori Iris Sim by Dr. James Sim & Ms. Ying Xu Ms. Naomi Suto by Ms. Debbe Lao Mr. Michael Titterton by Ms. Bonnie Lee Pestana Ms. Jean Tsukamoto By Mr. & Mrs. Chris Nielsen Karen Watarida by Melvin Watarida Randy and Helen Wong By Michael & Terrina Wong Mr. Derrick Yamane by Mr. Lance Teruya

In Memory of

Geoff Au by Kendrick & Joy Au by Randy Wong & Helen Liu Richard D. Bauman, Professor, UH Civil Engineering Department by Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Momohara by Mr. & Mrs. Gordon G. W. Lum Alan Doike by Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Momohara by Brian & Mary Stapleton by Randy Wong & Helen Liu The Late Will J. Henderson by Ms. Mariko Miho Mr. Walter Kubota by Dr. & Mrs. Dale Takanishi Marjorie Lau by Matthew Lau Ms. Ellen Masaki by Dr. Steven Nishi & Dr. Pamela Tauchi-Nishi Neil McKay by Anonymous by Randall Hee by Nola Nahulu Mr. & Mrs. Peter & Linda Mesrobian by Anonymous Mrs. Ellen R. Miyasato by Gilbert Miyasato

Hawaii Youth Symphony thanks each donor and community partner who has contributed towards the service of our mission and vision. Every attempt has been made to publish a complete and accurate listing. We regret any omissions or errors that may have occurred, and would appreciate if you would email us at admin@hiyouthsymphony.org to advise us of them. Thank you! 2016 Spring Concert Series Celebrating Our 55th Season

Harris Nakamura by Mark and Sandy Nakamura Ms. Luella Spadaro by Randy Wong & Helen Liu Marjorie Tanoue by Dr. Lynn Tanoue by Dr. Ross Tanoue Mr. Gin Wong by Ms. Janna Wong by Michael & Terrina Wong by Mr. Randy Wong & Dr. Helen Liu Mew Choy Wong by Mr. Kirk Caldwel & Ms. Donna Tanoue by Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Chang by Mr. Guy Kudo & Ms. Patrice Choy by Ms. Karyl Doi by Ms. Diane Fujimura by Mr. & Mrs. James Grumling by Mrs. Ann M. Ho by Mr. & Mrs. Michael Lau by Ms. Elaine Lee by Ms. Jadine London by Mr. & Mrs. Vernon Loo by Mr. & Mrs. Michael Lum by Mr. & Mrs. Randy Sobol by Mr. Larry Takumi & Jo-Ann Komori by Mr. & Mrs. Wayne Tanaka by Ms. Sharorn Tanigawa by Ms. BJ Taum by Mr. & Mrs. Blaine Tsugawa by Ms. Elizabeth Weatherford by Ms. Madeline C. Wong by Mr. Randy Wong & Dr. Helen Liu by Ms. Sandra Ann Wong by Mr. Steven Yee by Ms. Valerie Yee

Donors | 39

Hawaii Youth Symphony Class of 2020

Hawaii Youth Symphony