Concert Series
Symphony Program Spring Concert
Sunday, April 12, 2026
Concert Orchestra & Youth Symphony II ✿ 1:30 pm
Youth Symphony I ✿ 5:00 pm
Moanalua High School Performing Arts Center
Academy Strings & Music in the Clubhouse Spring Concert
Saturday, April 25, 2026 ✿ 1:45 pm
Kaimukī High School Performing Arts Center
Jazz Spring Concert
Sunday, April 26, 2026 ✿ 2:00 pm
Studio 909, Musician’s Association of Hawai‘i
A Message from the President
Aloha Families, Friends, and Supporters,
On behalf of all of us at Hawaiʻi Youth Symphony, welcome to our annual Spring Concert Series! We are extremely honored by your commitment to music education, our keiki, and the many communities that we serve.
The 2025—2026 school year has been a memorable one. We find inspiration and joy in the ways that our youth learn, perform, and grow. Music once made at home in one’s practice space takes on entirely new life when rehearsed, honed, and performed.
I’m grateful to our faculty, whose deep and intrinsic knowledge for our art form transforms students’ individual practice into a wholly immersive ensemble sound. To bring this work to the stage, for all of you to enjoy, I am equally thankful to our staff. Their countless hours of coordination, planning, and management make a world of difference.
Over these four concerts (Clubhouse/Academy, YSII/CO, YSI, and Jazz), we will celebrate the many forms of music that bring our youth together. The diversity of genres, instruments, composers, voices, regions, and reasons for playing are not just indicative of the breadth of our student body; they define who we are and are symbolic of our core values.
A very heartfelt and special mahalo to all who donate to HYS, helping us to fulfill our mission and work toward our vision. We would like to acknowledge the Hawaiʻi State Legislature and State Foundation on Culture & the Arts, the City & County of Honolulu, the McInerny Foundation, The Arthur & Mae Z. Orvis Foundation, and our dedicated Board of Directors, for all the ways they have helped our music to bloom this spring.
Last but not least, Congratulations to the Class of 2026! We are honored to have had a chance to take part in your upbringing and thank you for keeping music in your hearts and lives. We look forward to hearing how you grow and prosper in the years to come.
With aloha and respect,
Randy Wong President & CEO, HYS ’99
Acknowledgements
We are grateful to our community partners, whose generous support and special talents are invaluable to Hawai‘i Youth Symphony.
State of Hawai‘i
Dr. Josh Green, Governor
Hawai‘i State Foundation on Culture and the Arts
Karen Ewald, Executive Director
City & County of Honolulu
Rick Blangiardi, Mayor
Accounting
KMH LLP
Robert Loke
Charles Gilmour
Daniel Lott
Audio Engineer
Duane Padilla Halekulani
Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra
Amy Iwano, President & CEO
Chamber Music Hawai‘i
James Moffitt, Board President
Christopher Cabrera, General Manager
Dr. Helen Liu, Education & Community Engagement Coordinator
Galliard String Quartet
Honolulu Brass Quintet
Spring Wind Quintet
Dr. Helen Liu, Jim Moffitt & Gabral Cruz, Coaches
Honolulu Chamber Music Series
Jonathan Korth, Board President
Amy Mitsuda, Partners in Performance Committee
Ignace Jang, Clara Kim, and Aris Doike, Chamber Music Coaches
Dr. Helen Liu, Jim Moffitt & Gabral Cruz, Coaches
Printing
Edward Enterprises
Sanford Morioka
Justin You
Program Design
Mark Nakamura
Public Relations
Becker Communications
Susan Wright, Taryn Wells & Laura Young
Social Media
Vibe Creative Hawai‘i
Erica Mau-Schank
Alyssa Kawamura
University of Hawai‘i Music Department
Dr. Laurence Paxton, Chair
William Watson, Facility Coordinator
Niu Valley Middle School
Jeffrey Shitaoka, Principal University Laboratory School, PCS
Keoni Jeremiah, Principal
Ira Wong, Band Director ‘Iolani School
Melanie Pfingsten, Interim Head of School
Jamie Sanborn, Technical & Production Manager
Boys and Girls Club of Hawai‘i
Paddy Kauhane, President
& Chief Executive Officer
Claudia “Lala”
Fernandez, EVP & Chief Operations Officer
Danielle Trinidad (Spalding)
Kekoa Tupua (Nānākuli)
Shayla Moura (Windward)
Le Jardin Academy
Earl Kim, Head of School
Joshua Masagatani, Primary Dean of Experiential Education and Community Partnerships
Katy Nakayama, Director of Auxiliary Programs
Faith Butterfield, Administrative Assistant to Auxiliary Programs
Moanalua High School
Robin Martin, Principal
Andrew Ching, Music Director
Cavin Takesue, Associate Music Director
Todd Oshima, Associate Music Director
Rhona Barbosa, Associate Music Director
Landon Mauricio, Moanalua Performing Arts Center Manager
Studio 909
Robert Shinoda
Sonya Mendez
Kaimuki High School
Performing Arts Center
Lorilei Aiwohi, Principal
M.J. Matsushita, PAC Director
Symphony Program
Coaches
Christopher Cabrera, YSI Percussion Coach
Jeremy Lawi, CO & YSII
Percussion Coach
Academy Program Coaches
Stefanie Lawton, BSE/ISE
Cello Coach
Sayuri Yamamoto, BSE/ISE
Bass Coach
Academy Strings Concert
Parent Volunteers
Sharon Ameen, SOE
Yanyu Huang, ISE
Noelia Paez, CSO
Jasmine Taketa-Tran, CSO
Jazz Concert Concert
Parent Volunteers
Michelle Funai
Wade Nobuhara
Concert Orchestra
Concert Parent
Volunteers
Sandy Nishimura
Leslie Serapion-Perez
Reyna Sueoka
Youth Symphony II
Concert Parent
Volunteers
Jill Kawaguchi
Heather Oshiro
Debbie Petilos
Youth Symphony I
Concert Parent
Volunteers
Margret Arakaki
Coren Kajioka
Kathryn Kajioka
Wade Nobuhara
2025–2026 Board of Directors & Staff
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Erica Mau-Schank, Chair
Lauren Yoo, Vice Chair
Lorrin Hirano, Esq., Secretary
Richard Ing, Interim Treasurer
Directors
Ben Gutierrez
Sharon R. Himeno
Collin Hoo
Martin Hsia, Esq.
David Imanaka, Esq.
Robin Kobayashi, Esq.
Malcolm Lau
John Love, Esq.
Michael Onofrietti
Aaron Salā, PhD
Jean Tsukamoto
Hawai‘i Youth Symphony 1350 South King St., Suite 201 Honolulu, HI 96814
Tel. (808) 941-9706
admin@hiyouthsymphony.org www.HIYouthSymphony.org Federal Tax ID #99-0119771
ADMINISTRATION
Randy Wong, President & CEO
Rachel Schultz, Chief Operating Officer
Joseph Stepec, Director of Orchestral Activities
Hannah Watanabe, Programs Director
Lauren Sergent, Operations Manager
Wailani Kontic, Philanthropy & Outreach Manager
‘Alohi Igarta, Development Support Specialist
Brent Ramos, Receptionist
McKenzee Espiritu, Music Librarian
FACULTY
Symphony Program
Joseph Stepec, Conductor, Youth Symphony I
Elden T. Seta, Conductor, Youth Symphony II
Wayne Fanning, Conductor, Concert Orchestra
Jazz Program
Dean Taba, Director
Ryan Howe, Instructor
Noel Okimoto, Instructor
Academy Program
‘Alohi Igarta, Academy String Program Coordinator
Michael Lim, Conductor, String Orchestra Ensemble & Concert String Orchestra
Carissa Miyamoto, Conductor, Beginning String Ensemble & Intermediate String Ensemble
Laurie Shimabukuro, Super Strings Instructor
Music in the Clubhouse
Abraham Lagrimas, Jr., Honolulu Music4Kids
Maia Mayeshiro, Windward Music4Kids
Kau‘ionālani Mead, Nānākuli Music4Kids
Daniel Kawai‘ae‘a Shaver, Nānākuli Violins
About Hawai‘i Youth Symphony
Hawai‘i’s only state-wide music education organization, Hawai‘i Youth Symphony reaches over 3,500 youth annually, ages 7–18 of all skill levels and every economic background, brought together from more than 100 schools across the islands. Since 1964, the nonprofit has advanced its mission of fostering fun and creative experiences for youth that inspire a deep appreciation for music and lifelong relationships within the culture of our islands through orchestral music, offering diverse programs including general music, string and band classes, jazz, symphony orchestras, summer intensives, and more. Contributions to HYS go toward its vision of A Hawai‘i where Music Is A Right: to break down barriers to music education including financial hardship, geographic barriers, and expanding the reach of HYS in rural and underresourced communities.
Among the largest youth symphony organizations in the country, HYS ensures that no interested child is turned away from a quality music education because of financial need and awards over $100,000 a year through its financial aid program for qualified and neighbor island students. HYS also offers assistance for registration fees, instrument loans, private lessons and air and surface travel for neighbor island students. Team HYS is composed of more than a dozen employees and has a roster of nearly a hundred artist-faculty, all of whom are expressly dedicated to music education and its transformative opportunities for Hawai‘i’s youth.
JULY 3-12 2026
JAZZ INTENSIVE
MIDDLE SCHOOL ALL-STATE BAND STRINGS PROGRAM
UKULELE WORKSHOP
WINDS, BRASS, & PERCUSSION PROGRAM
Elevate your musicality at the PMI, a community united by a love of music and excellence. Our expert instructors offer tailored rehearsals and masterclasses to ignite your creativity and skill growth. Experience our many program offerings this
FINANCIAL AID DUE MAY 1
REGISTRATIONS DUE MAY 31 ʻ IOLANI SCHOOL HONOLULU, HI
Spring Concert
Sunday, April 12, 2026
Concert Orchestra & Youth Symphony II ✿ 1:30 pm
Moanalua High School Performing Arts Center
Concert Orchestra
Wayne Fanning, Conductor
Poet and Peasant Overture
Franz von Suppe arr. Merle J. Isaac
A Childhood Remembered Rossano Galante
Csardas
The Impossible Dream (The Quest)
Vittorio Monti arr. Kirt N. Mosier
Joe Darion and Mitch Leigh arr. Victor Lopez
The Stars and Stripes Forever John Philip Sousa arr. Brion & Schissel
Youth
Symphony
Elden T. Seta, Conductor
Selections from Swan Lake Suite
No. 1 Scène from Act 2, No. 10
II
Pyotr IIyich Tchaikovsky
No. 3 Danse des cygnes from Act 2, No. 13, Var. 4
No. 2 Valse from Act 1, No. 2
Danse Infernale, Berceuse and Finale Igor Stravinsky from “The Firebird Suite” arr. Merle J. Isaac
Excerpts from ”Star Wars: Episode II“
John Williams and ”The Empire Strikes Back“ arr. Jerry Brubaker & John C. Whitney
Concert Orchestra & Youth Symphony II
Senior Ceremony
Concert Orchestra
Wayne Fanning Concert Orchestra Conductor
Wayne Fanning is a graduate of Hilo High School and participated in HYS Concert Orchestra and the Pacific Music Institute as a student. He received his Bachelor of Education and Master of Arts from the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa. Fanning has performed with numerous professional and community ensembles throughout Hawai‘i. Prior to his current position at HYS, he served as director of the Music in the Clubhouse Band and a clinician for various HYS Orchestras. He has served as guest conductor for the Maui District High School Massed Band and the Central District Beginning Honor Orchestra, as well as several school bands and orchestras. He has been teaching band and orchestra at Niu Valley Middle School since 1998, where his musical ensembles have performed for music conferences in Honolulu, Denver, and
Concert Orchestra
Violin I
Maya Chow
Quincy Higa
Kazuo Hirakami
Noah Kim
Annaka Lau
Gabriel Li
Kaylee Liang
Eliana Lin
Lilian Polley
Noah Swan
Elena Tjoeng, Concertmaster
Lucas Wong
Violin II
Yinyi Chen
Shayla Ching
Mariko Colaianni
Gina Esaki
James Joyner, III
Suyoung Jung
Austin Kamemoto
Kaimiloapono KawazuArmstrong
Sophia Kimura
Anna Kobayashi
Sue Lee
Ava Morgan
Samuel Tarn, Principal
Isaiah Wane
Runxin Wang
Abigail Wood
Jana Wu
Jeannie Wu
Viola
Seoyeon Byun
Hadriel Goo
Esther Kim
Na Hye Kim
Asa Thompson, Principal
Cello
Luca Arnone
Brian Baik
Audrey Branner
Eliana Chang, Principal
Madeline Ebisu
Lilja Kikuhara-Talvala
Jacob Kim
Olivia Kim
Yuna Kim
Ethan Lim
Evelyn Mui
Avery Pendergraft
Joseph Perez
Lincoln Sueoka
Bass
Mika Fong
Liv Gomez
Hunter Quitazol, Principal
Flute
Kallie Kiriu
Airi Nishimura
Jada Ann Oshiro, Principal
Cheryl Tamura
Tobi Tengan
About Concert Orchestra
Concert Orchestra (CO) is the third most advanced of HYS’s seven orchestras and the entry point into the Symphony Program. This year, Concert Orchestra is composed of 91 students from 29 public, private and homeschools across O‘ahu, Kaua‘i, Maui and Hawai‘i Island. This season’s concertmaster is Elena Tjoeng, a 7th grade student from Niu Valley Middle School.
Oboe
Aryn Elyse Kojima, Principal
Isabelle Quay
Arianny Sakagawa
Malina Sautter
Ryder Sue
Clarinet
Faith Eom
Yubeen Ha
Alison Kim
Ethan Navarro, Principal
Myla Yamatsuka
Bassoon
Zack Abernathy
Lincoln Davidson
Joshua Kim, Principal Horn
Shoshana EsmondSchadel, Principal
Jonathan Horinouchi
Jayden Lamayo
Sloane Powell
Michael Sung
Trumpet
Kobi Inouye
Aven Kim
Souma Kishishita
Vincent Lassoff
Jaymes Lau, Principal
Kasen Yue
Trombone
Maia-Joy Akagi
Justus Shitaoka
Kento Wong, Principal
Euphonium
Lacey Royce
Tuba
Ka'eo Hardy, Principal
Samuel Schulberg
Piano/Keyboard
Avery Pendergraft
Percussion
Atsushi Harada-Collier
Hiilani Simeona
Elizabeth Ujimori, Co-Principal
David Yoshioka, Co-Principal
Elden Seta
Youth Symphony II
Youth Symphony II, Conductor
Elden T. Seta joins HYS as YSII conductor, bringing a remarkable legacy of music education and leadership in Hawai‘i. Retiring after 37 years as music director at Moanalua High School, he built a thriving program that inspired generations of students to pursue their passion for music and achieve their best. A nationally and locally recognized educator, Mr. Seta received the Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award, was named Hawai‘i Music Educators Association’s Outstanding Educator of the Year, earned Moanalua High School’s Teacher of the Year honor four times, and received the John Philip Sousa Foundation’s Legion of Honor Laureate Award. He is also a member of the American Bandmasters Association. Known for his visionary leadership and collaborative approach, Mr. Seta guides ensembles to both musical excellence and personal growth. A lifelong Hawai‘i resident and Pearl City High School graduate, he holds a Bachelor of Music Education from the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa and pursued advanced studies at Vandercook College of Music. He currently serves as a State Office Teacher of Fine Arts in Music for the Hawai‘i Department of Education. In joining YSII, he brings his passion, energy, and deep commitment to mentorship, inspiring young musicians to achieve their best.
Youth Symphony II
Violin I
Douglas Chan
Dominic Chi, Co-Concertmaster
Airi Choy
Elena de Lima
Jinghuan Dong
Charles Haring
Cole Jackson
Olivia Kawashima
Victoria Lu
Minh Chau Ngyuen
Chloe Petilos
Owen Presting, Co-Concertmaster
Tenley Tanigawa
YiJia Wang
Lantana Widana
Shion Yamasaki
Ichiro Yeh
Violin II
Frida Boeker, Co-Principal
Lucas Chew
Sydney Chung
Clara Elham
Alina Evanoff
Brad Giang
Elizabeth Huang
Claire Ito-Saysamon
Kian Jackson
Tara Krishnagopalan
Cheyna Murakami
Bryce Nouchi
Lacey Park
Zuri Phung
Jeff Pitathawatchai, Student Representative
Kolleen Roessig
Phoenix Shelton, Co-Principal
Dylan Tsushima
Lillian Yim
Viola
Ashten Taylor BonillaCuizon, Co-Principal
Rui Han, Co-Principal
Sophia Kawashima
Daphne Lawton
Melody Luo
Alyson Wong
Cello
Rose Bozeman
Aria Chan
David Chan
Princeton Co
Otto Ferguson
Rex Lin
Bronwen Nagayama
Jedi Si Ming Ng
Paisley Sagadraca
Mathayus Scherling, Co-Principal
Daniel Schoen, Co-Principal
Benjamin Ter
Hannah Zhang
Bass
Leila Settsu Hernandez, Co-Principal
Ian Taira, Co-Principal
Flute
Chloe Choi, Co-Principal
Eunice Kim
Anna Motohashi
Baiyi Wang, Co-Principal
Qinglin Ye
Oboe
Ian Cho
Charlotte Gimber
Jaslyn Kwock, Co-Principal
Kalea Starr, Co-Principal
Clarinet
Ayden Aggabao
Lauren Chen, Co-Principal & Student Representative
Bonnie Lee
Hunter Navarro, Co-Principal
Yoshiki Justin Yamada
Bassoon
Yuto Mata
Connor Wasano, Principal
Horn
Emie Hinazumi
Maile Judd
Morten Kjos-Hanssen
Taeja Takahashi, Principal
Eva Tramuto
Trumpet
Andrew Arceo, Co-Principal
Micah Kim
Zachary Rooks, Co-Principal
Erin Wong
Trombone
Caleb Chinen, Co-Principal
Maiara Dutra Elliott
Evan Shiota, Co-Principal
Tuba
Matthew Oshiro, Co-Principal
Charles Schulberg, Co-Principal
Percussion
Keira Ida Ayu
Mia Kim
Nanami Mata
Isaac Matsumoto
Trinity Vong
Harp
Arabella Tan
About Youth Symphony II
Youth Symphony II (YSII) is the second most advanced of HYS’s seven orchestras. For the 2025-2026 season, YSII is composed of 92 students from 29 public, private and homeschools across O‘ahu, Kaua‘i, Maui, Moloka‘i, and Hawai‘i Island. This semester’s co-concert masters are Owen Presting, a tenth grade student from Mid-Pacific Institute and Dominic Chi, a ninth grade student from Punahou School.
SYMPHONY PROGRAM
Spring Concert
Sunday, April 12, 2026
Youth Symphony I ✿ 5:00 pm
Moanalua High School Performing Arts Center
Youth Symphony I Joseph Stepec, Conductor
Red Cape Tango Michael Daugherty
Violin Concerto in E minor
III. Allegro molto vivace
Sevastyan Swan, Soloist
Felix Mendelssohn
Fleet Cameron Brown
Percussion Ensemble Feature
INTERMISSION
Symphony No. 5 in E minor by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky
I. Andante – allegro con anima
II. Andante cantabile – con alcuna licenza
III. Valse: Allegro moderato
IV. Finale: Andante maestoso – Allegro vivace
Orvis Concerto Competition
The Arthur and Mae Zenke Orvis Foundation
March 2026
AAloha Friends and Families of the Hawaii Youth Symphony,
The Arthur and Mae Zenke Orvis Foundation Board is pleased to partner with the Hawaii Youth Symphony in presenting the Orvis HYS Soloist Concerto Competition.
HYS, the only statewide orchestra program for youth, offers Hawaii students an opportunity to work with outstanding educators, to meet fellow musicians throughout the state, and to participate in a high-quality musical endeavor beyond what is available in individual schools. The Orvis HYS Concerto Competition highlights HYS's commitment to excellence and what Hawaii students are able to achieve through HYS
The Orvis Board warmly congratulates violinist and co-concertmaster Sevastyan (Seva) Swan on winning this year's competition and applauds him for his years of dedication and hard work. The Board also thanks his family, schools, and music instructors for their support.
Sincerely,
The Orvis Foundation Board
John Gibbons, President
Michael Mackay, Vice-President
rthur and Mae Zenke Orvis, originally of New York, built a legacy in Hawai‘i that continues today. Arthur, a stockbroker, and Mae Zenke, an opera singer, visited Hawai‘i frequently, developing close bonds with the community and becoming lifelong supporters of the arts. The Orvises’ philanthropy in Hawai‘i began in 1960, when they donated funds to build the Mae Zenke Orvis Auditorium on the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa campus. The auditorium, with its excellent acoustics and a fine pipe organ donated by the Orvises, remains an important concert venue. Over the years, the Orvises’ generosity fostered a vibrant cultural landscape that delivers innovative, high quality performance and education in the arts to our communities.
Ever since I joined YSI, I have always looked up to the winners of the senior competition and looked forward to my own opportunity to participate in it. I felt like all of those who were judging the competition, and even those competing alongside me, were kind and supportive. This made the entire competition feel less about competing, and more about celebrating everyone's work put into the performance. Playing with an orchestra as a soloist is a goal for many young musicians, so I'm very grateful for the opportunity to perform alongside my peers.
Sevastyan Swan, Violin
Youth Symphony I
Joseph Stepec Director of Orchestral Activities & PMI Artistic Director Youth Symphony I Conductor
Joseph Stepec came to Hawai‘i from Cleveland, Ohio in 2016. He is Associate Professor of Music and Director of Orchestras at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa’s Music Department. Under his direction, the University of Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra has premiered works of new composers, represented underperformed masterworks, and has collaborated with ensembles as diverse as the United States Marine Band and more. He is an active clinician that has guest taught many ensembles visiting Hawai‘i, on the mainland, and abroad in Shanghai, China. .
Mr. Stepec studied violin with Gregory Fulkerson at the Oberlin Conservatory of Music, and conducting at the Eastman School of Music with master teacher, Neil Varon. Mr. Stepec additionally studied with Michael Jinbo at the Pierre Monteux School for Conductors and pursued doctoral studies at the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University. In 2017, he was a conducting Fellow at the Menuhin Gstaad Music Festival where he worked closely with Jaap van Zweden, Music Director of the New York Philharmonic and noted conducting pedagogue, Johannes Schlaefli. In 2019, Mr. Stepec premiered a new translation of Stravinsky’s L’Histoire du Soldat set in colonial Hawai‘i with members of Chamber Music Hawai‘i to very favorable reviews.
As the Director of Orchestral Activities at the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony, Mr. Stepec conducts the top orchestra, Youth Symphony I. With that ensemble he has premiered new works by living composers and has worked with countless Hawai‘i based artists. He has toured with the ensemble to the outer islands and has been featured in concert at the Waīkikī Shell and Blaisdell Concert Hall. His work with the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony was recognized in 2024 with an induction to the Pacific Business News magazine’s “40 Under 40,” which recognizes leaders in Hawai‘i.
Youth Symphony I
Violins
Geon Cha
Nicholas Chi
Leia Choi. Co-Concertmaster
Ethan Chow
Elizabeth Fink
Yanling Guo
Ymin Guo
Coco Kim
Jayden Kim
Riya Krishnagopalan
Vincent Lau
Brian Lim
Shiloh Mitsui
Lily Nomura
Alexis Phansaithong
Christopher Oyama
Max Shinno, Co-Concertmaster
Maria Swan
Sevastyan Swan, Co-Concertmaster
Sherry Taguchi
Noah Tanaka, Co-Principal
Rylan Terayama
Katherine Wu, Co-Principal
Eileen Zhang
Viola
Hyunwoo Chang
Haaon Cho
Leala Florendo
Eun Ha
Swan Kim, Co-Principal
Albert Ko, Co-Principal
Hannah Kwak
Kyla Miyamoto
Lulu Wang
Cello
Anson Akemoto
Sophia Chan, Co-Principal
Ashlyn Ito, Co-Principal
Ian Jun
Cody Kajioka
Jibhum Lee
Lucas Sanford
Isabella Santos
Evangeline Tjoeng
Reese Walther
Bryan Wood
Taigo Yuen
Bass
Andrew Izumi, Co-Principal
Chloe Quiddaoen, CoPrincipal
About Youth Symphony I
Youth Symphony I (YSI) is the most advanced of HYS’s seven orchestras and is one of the finest youth symphonies in the country. In its history, YSI has performed with renowned guest artists, was a finalist in the Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards, and had the special honor of performing on From the Top, a nationally-broadcast radio show.
For the 2025–2026 season, YSI is composed of 85 students, grades 9–12, from 17 public, home and independent schools across O’ahu. This year, YSI has three co-concertmasters. Leia Choi, a senior from ‘Iolani, Max Shinno, a senior from Punahou, and Sevastyan Swan, a senior homeschool student.
Flute
Hope Bayudan, Co-Principal
Flora Liao
Jason Okutani
Henry Rhee
Jessica-Holly Wiemer, Co-Principal
Oboe
Kenton Chan, Co-Principal
Maya Hokada, Co-Principal
Nainoa Tindle
Brandalyn Tran
Clarinet
Yuto Kawaguchi, Co-Principal
Jeannie Kim, Co-Principal
Pyeonggeun Kim
Ellie Obara
Bassoon
Jerry Gao
Daniel Kim, Co-Principal
Humi Yoshizawa, Co-Principal
Horn
Matthew Meinert
Tanner Millard
Jake Miyakawa, Co-Principal
Kobe Miyamasu
Kai Takenouchi-Amador
Nicholas Xu, Co-Principal
Trumpet
Kainoa Alcain
Paige Kawana
Javis Phan
Christopher Yara, Principal
Trombone
Kolten Hamana
Xyon-La'Jount Jury
Cy Kaneshiro
Andrew Li, Principal
Tuba
Sara Roper, Principal
Percussion
Camden Funai
Mani Kovacich
Carter Nobuhara
Ian Pak
Taitum Tanouye
Harp
Arabella Tan, Principal
ACADEMY STRINGS PROGRAM & MUSIC IN THE CLUBHOUSE
Spring Concert
Saturday, April 25, 2026 ✿ 1:45 pm
Kaimukī High School Performing Arts Center
Honolulu Music4Kids
Abraham Lagrimas, Jr., Instructor
Program to be announced from stage
Nānākuli Music4Kids & Violin
Kau‘ionālani Mead, Music4Kids Instructor
Daniel Kawai’ae’a Shaver, Violin Instructor
Nānākuli Violin Classes
Selections from the Essential Elements 2000 Book 1
Nānākuli Music4Kids Classes
Ka Leo O Ka Manu Richard Iliwa’alani
Ke Ao Nani Mary Puku’i
A Nānākuli Original Nānākuli Music4Kids Class
Super Strings
Beginning & Intermediate Violins
Laurie Shimabukuro, Instructor
German Dance Franz Joseph Haydn arr. Larry Clark & Doris Gazda
Celtic Canon Helen Butterworth
Beautiful Skies Mark O’Connor
Cotton Eyed Joe Traditional arr. Derek & Lisa Deakins
Test Drive from “How to Train Your Dragon” John Powell arr. Laurie Shimabukuro
Beginning String Ensemble
Carissa Miyamoto, Conductor
D-Tour Todd Parish
Selections from the All For Strings method book:
Little Annie – Viola section feature
Long Long Ago – Cello section feature
She'll Be Comin’ ’Round the Mountain – Bass feature
N. Paganini – Violin section feature
Backcountry Ramble Bob Lipton
Intermediate String Ensemble
Carissa Miyamoto, Conductor
Dinosaur Dig
Susan H. Day
Fan Dance Soon Hee Newbold
Nightrider Richard Meyer
String Orchestra Ensemble
Beauty and the Beastinato
I. Beauty
II. Beastinato
Michael Lim, Conductor
M. L. Daniels
Londonderry Air Traditional arr. Ralph Hermann
Dia de los Muertos Richard Meyer
Concert String Orchestra
Michael Lim, Conductor
Incantations Richard Meyer
With Quiet Courage Larry Daehn trans. Thomas Stone
Danse from African Suite, Op. 35, No. 4
Finale
Samuel Coleridge-Taylor arr. Deborah Baker Monday
Maunaleo
Words by Keali‘i Reichel & Puakea Nogelmeier
Music by Keali‘i Reichel
Featuring all of the students from our Academy & Music in the Clubhouse ensembles!
Maunaleo
Words by Keali‘i Reichel & Puakea Nogelmeier, Music by Keali’i Reichel
Composed for Keali‘i’s mother Lei. She is compared to the majestic sentinel mountain, Maunaleo, who guards, comforts, nourishes and loves her people. Mālie is the gentle wind of the area.
He aloha nō ‘o Maunaleo
I lohia e ke kilihuna
Kohu ‘ahu‘ao no ka uka
He kamalani kamaehu kau i ka hano ē
He kamalei, kamahiwa pā i ka lani ē
Po‘ohina i ka ‘ohu kolo
Kahiko no ka poli ‘olu
Apo ‘ia e nā kualono
He hi‘ina, hi‘alo, aloha ē
Hi‘ipoli, hi‘ilei, hi‘ilani ē
Eia ku‘u lei aloha
No Maunaleo i ka nani
‘Ohu‘ohu i ka Mālie
He kamalani kamaehu kau i ka hano ē
He kamalei, kamahiwa pā i ka lani ē
No Maunaleo ke aloha kū i ka la‘i ē
Aloha ē, aloha ē
Beloved indeed in Maunaleo
Sparkling in the light, wind-blown rain
A finely woven cloak for the highlands
A cherished one, respected for power and strength
Esteemed, treasured, touched by heaven
Capped by the silver of the rolling mists
An adornment for that gentle heart
Embraced by the surrounding ridges
One to hold close, to hold near, to love
One dear to the heart, precious, exalted
This is my garland of affection
For Maunaleo in its beauty
Glorified by the Mālie breeze
A cherished one, respected for power and strength
Esteemed, treasured, touched by heaven
For Mauanleo is the serenity of deep love
Beloved are you, beloved indeed
Music in the Clubhouse (MITCH)
Honolulu Music4Kids
Abraham Lagrimas, Jr., Instructor
Alina Chen
Euan Chung
Isabelle Chung
Logan Garcia
Kaito Kahue-Burrows
Kaimana Lui-Kwan
Caleb Paul
Kairyn Quispe-Brown
Manu Rao
Zachary Tanuvasa-Wills
Nānākuli Music4Kids & Violin
Kau‘ionālani Mead, Music4Kids Instructor
Daniel Kawai’ae’a Shaver, Violin Instructor
Serenity Akina
Kenzly Reign AmaralPalakiko
Kapono BoltonMusic4Kids Only
Riley Cabral
Kento Crutchfield
Leimomi Curtis
Chloe Domingo
Christopher Ganiron
William George, Jr.
Kyson Hallman
Kamaha‘o Ka‘awaKahawai
Chaezton KekahunaLogotaeao
Crymzen KekahunaLogotaeao
Daisy Martin
Aiya Nicholson
Anthony Nicholson
Mila Press
Eva QuinnonesMusic4Kids Only
Miro Rodrigues-Maling
Prince Tago
Nova Wilcroft
Logan Wright
About Music in the Clubhouse
For over a decade, HYS has partnered with the Boys & Girls Club of Hawai‘i to provide low-cost, entry-level classes to Clubhouse youth. Made possible through the generosity of private foundations, public support and contributions to HYS, the classes provide free instrument loans, sheet music, and instruction on a weekly basis throughout the Nānākuli year. More than 5,000 Honolulu-region youth (largely from Mo‘ili‘ili, McCully, Ala Wai, Pauoa, and Nu‘uanu) have had the chance to play music thanks to our Music4Kids classes at the Spalding Club.
In 2019, HYS launched its Music in the Clubhouse initiative at the Nānākuli Boys & Girls Club along the Wai‘anae coast. Carnegie Hall recognized HYS as Hawai‘i’s first recipient of a PlayUSA grant, a program that supported a wide range of instrumental music education projects across the nation, all with a specific interest in reaching low-income and underserved students on a local level. This program has expanded from violin classes to now offering Music4Kids classes as well.
Brand new to the Music in the Clubhouse program this year is HYS’s Windward Music4Kids class at the Windward Boys & Girls Club. This class opens up music learning opportunities for students in middle and high school on the Windward side of the island.
Abe Lagrimas, Jr.
Honolulu
Music4Kids Instructor
Abe Lagrimas, Jr. is a professional musician, composer, educator, and author who plays the drums, vibraphone, and ukulele. He studied at Berklee College of Music and competed in the highly prestigious Thelonious Monk International Jazz Drums Competition in 2012. As a solo ukulele artist, Abe is a Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award recipient, with his most recent win in 2022 for Ukulele Album of the Year. He has released multiple solo albums internationally, his music has been featured in Hawaiian Airlines and on Japanese television, and his music can even be found circulating in hundreds of thousands of reels on social media. In addition to teaching privately, Abe is currently involved in several music education programs. He is an on-screen instructor and consultant/curriculum developer for Fender Play, a world-wide subscription service that offers virtual music lessons. His involvement with Fender led him to join Lōkahi: The Ukulele Collective, a non-profit whose mission is to provide affordable interdisciplinary and culturally-relevant ukulele music education to Hawai‘i's students. Most recently, Abe has become the Ukulele Instructor for the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony Music4Kids Program. He is the author of Jazz Ukulele: Comping, Soloing, Chord Melodies (Berklee Press/Hal Leonard) and 'Elua, a self-published book featuring transcriptions from his 2019 album. He currently endorses Canopus Drums, Paiste Cymbals, Vic Firth Drumsticks, Beato Bags, Ohana Ukuleles, Analysis Plus Cables, Fusion Gig Bags, and Roswell Pro Audio. After a 15-year long stint in Los Angeles, CA, Abe has returned home and is currently based in Honolulu, HI.
Kau‘ionālani Mead
Nānākuli Music4Kids Instructor
Kau‘ionālani Mead is a lifelong learner, dedicated educator, and passionate advocate for music, culture, and community. Raised in the lush valley of Mānoa, she earned both her Bachelor’s degree in Music and Master’s degree in Educational Foundations from the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa. For nearly two decades, Kau‘i has taught music and Hawaiian culture in schools and community settings across Hawai‘i, nurturing generations of keiki through culturally grounded, heart-centered education. In 2016, she founded Ho‘ōla Music and Cultural Arts, a nonprofit rooted in the belief that mele (music) and ‘āina (land)-based education can heal, inspire, and empower. Through this work, Kau‘i has developed innovative programs that integrate cultural practice with academic learning, building bridges between classrooms, families, and communities. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to uplifting Hawai‘i—one child, one ‘ohana, one song at a time.
Daniel Kawai‘ae‘a Shaver
Nānākuli Violin Instructor
Born and raised in Honolulu, Daniel Kawai‘ae‘a Shaver received his Master of Arts degree in Music Education from the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, where he was advised by Dr. Jennifer Blackwell and studied Orchestral Conducting with Professor Joseph Stepec. Mr. Shaver previously studied at the University of Oregon School of Music and Dance, where he studied violin and advanced violin pedagogy with Kathryn Lucktenberg and Kevin Lefohn, and Suzuki pedagogy with Lillie Manis. Mr. Shaver is currently employed as the Orchestra Director at Mililani Middle School. Previously, Mr. Shaver was the Orchestra and Band Director at Radford High School and has also worked as the Assistant Orchestra Teacher at the Kamehameha Schools Kapālama Campus. Mr. Shaver also teaches private violin and viola lessons and has worked with schools around the island as a clinician.
Marlee Baniaga
Aurora Harris
Leon Hong
Academy String Program
Beginning
Super Strings
Laurie Shimabukuro, Instructor
Jordyn Halbridge
Harlyn Mannino
Intermediate Super Strings
Laurie Shimabukuro, Instructor
Noah Jakubek
Ruby Yess
Beginning String Ensemble (BSE)
Carissa Miyamoto, Conductor
Violin
Daniel He
Isaac Klein
Mia Lassoff
Reese Rosenblatt
Rei Tadeo
Joshua Thompson
Amiya Wong
Viola
Benjamin Barber
Annie He
Ariya He
Ellie Kim
Lia Nakashima
Cello
Soraya Cherki
Maxwell Cook
Noah Jang
Wyatt Woo
Christopher Zhao
Bass
Franklin Treutlein
Intermediate String Ensemble (ISE)
Carissa Miyamoto, Conductor
Violin
David Asamoto
Bernadette Beasley
John Bell
Madison Yue-Wei Chen
Amelie Cho
Hannah Chong
Genesis Del Valle
Yaoqi Liu
Dominic McClure
Miya Nguyen
Kenny Pitathawatchai
Kanani Reid
Kaleo Siu
Aria Tano
Xiduo Wang
Sharon Xu
Stephanie Yuen
Viola
Chloe Cheong
Lucia Cheong
Joshua Chong
Selena Huang
Austin Jenss
Ariella Smith
Natalie Szatkowski
Autumn Takasawa Betwee
Rachel Xue
David Zhou
Cello
John Anthony Chang
Sana Cook
Naia Davis
Eva Klein
Luke Lihalakha
Desmond McClure
Mele‘ana Moore
Minsu Park
Giuliano Jack Alexander
Ricardi King
David Umemoto
Bass
Miru Kim
Ryden Overton
Isla Stark
String Orchestra Ensemble (SOE)
Michael Lim, Conductor
Violin
Lee Ameen
Levi Ameen
Dayo Bell-Grey
Iris Chang
Lia Fagaragan
Rosella Mae Galapon
Kai Ning Hamano
Kai Kynion
Hiwalani Lederer
Mahealani Lederer
Jade Liao
Clementine Melander
Kylie Ouchi
Rachel Siu
Rydan Duke Stevenson
Oriana Theofanis
Andrew Wang
Baien Wang
Giselle Yan
Lily Yasuda
Katerina Yu
Viola
Peter Chinn
Gabriel Gardner
Kameapililaniikeaoakea Ramsey
Cello
Lianne Ameen
Liam Ching
Chris Ding
Alisa Gardner
Emma Harrow
Aiden Kim
Biana Lio
Mason Phung
Victoria Yu
Bass
Evelyn Cindrity
Nora Trimble
Concert String Orchestra (CSO)
Michael Lim, Conductor
Violin
Cleopatra Bell-Grey
Isabella Bush
Rebecca Diaz Paez
Katelyn Ewing
Mia Ginchereau
Kai Hsin Hamano
Eileen Kim
Melody Kiyohara
Kaleb Konishi
Josiah Lee
Claire Lim
Avrie Miller
Harumi Nakamura
Jinsu Park
Tetsuo Shimazu
Tomoe Shimazu
Caden Soeda
Kaci Sueoka
Dylan Suetsugu
Sarah Takahashi
Griffin Tano
Mirella Thibadeaux
Jiarui Tian
Brandon Tran
Ivy Won
Viola
Ethan Cha
Cello
Timothy Asamoto
Yujin Da
Veronica Lau
Emi Mochinaga
Klara Roessig
Eliza Sheets
Albert Wang
Ailey Yu
Bass
Ellie Arakaki
Emily Smith
About Academy String Program
The HYS Academy Strings is composed of four string ensembles with entry points for students of beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels. In proud partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubhouse of Hawai‘i, the Academy offers children ages 8 and older the opportunity to play violin, viola, cello, or string bass in group settings that emphasize the fundamental skills necessary for musical success.
BSE students learn the basics of how to play an instrument and read music, and no audition is needed to join this class. ISE students also do not need to audition, but have completed at least one year of a beginning class or book. Students in SOE & CSO auditioned back in August to become members of their respective advancing ensembles. This season, we have 126 Academy students representing more than 59 public, independent, and homeschools from ‘Oahu, Kaua‘i, and Lāna‘i.
During the summer, the Academy offers Summer Strings. Students receive daily instruction over a fiveweek session for beginning and intermediate players with no audition required. All Academy classes are held at the Boys & Girls Club of Hawai‘i’s Spalding Clubhouse.
‘Alohi Igarta Academy Strings Program Coordinator & Development Support Specialist
‘Alohi Igarta (they/them) is our new Academy Coordinator. Currently residing in Honolulu, ‘Alohi traces their roots to Moloka‘i, Maui, and Moku o Keawe (Hawai‘i Island), where their kūpuna call home. A proud alum of Hawai‘i Youth Symphony, ‘Alohi played cello in Concert String Orchestra and rose through the program to perform with Youth Symphony I. Their time in HYS sparked a lifelong love of music. ‘Alohi earned a BA in Communication from the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa and an MA in Human Sexuality Studies from San Francisco State University. Their work in Hawaiian culture and education has taken them to several local nonprofits, and they continue to volunteer restoring native plants at cultural sites across West O‘ahu.
✿Michael Lim
String Orchestra Ensemble & Concert String Orchestra Conductor
Michael Lim is a dedicated music teacher and professional violinist. Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawai’i, he began his musical career at the age of four with the piano, and started his violin studies at the age of seven. A graduate of Punahou School, Michael was involved in Punahou’s orchestra and string quartet program, and was a member of Hawai’i Youth Symphony’s YSII and YSI orchestras during his middle school and high school years. He is a graduate of the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, where he received his Bachelors and Masters of Music in violin performance. After returning to Hawai’i, he completed his Post-Baccalaureate Certificate of Music Education at the University of Hawai’i Mānoa, and was the orchestra and choir teacher at Mid Pacific Institute. He is currently at Punahou School where he teaches orchestra at the elementary and middle school levels. In addition to his music teaching career, Michael is also a full-time member of the Hawai’i Symphony Orchestra violin section, teaches private violin and viola lessons, and has served on the board of the Hawai’i Music Educators Association. He is a passionate educator and performer, and hopes to share his love of music with his students and inspire a new generation of musicians to cherish and preserve the art of music.
Carissa Miyamoto
Beginning String Ensemble & Intermediate String Ensemble Conductor
Carissa Miyamoto is a passionate music educator, violinist, and trumpet player. She grew up participating in the Hawai’i Youth Symphony program from BSE through YSI. She is a Moanalua High School graduate and recently earned her Bachelor’s in Music Education at the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa. She was a member of the 2019 Sacramento Mandarins on lead trumpet, placing in the top 12 for DCI finals. In 2021, she aged out as a member of the Santa Clara Vanguard. She currently aspires to serve the communities and organizations that helped her foster her own love for music and education.
Laurie Shimabukuro Super Strings Instructor
Laurie Shimabukuro grew up on O‘ahu studying the violin under the Suzuki Method from age four. She joined her first orchestra ensemble in the seventh grade as the concertmaster of the Punahou Advanced Orchestra and the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony in the eighth grade as the concertmaster of the Youth Symphony II orchestra. As a senior in high school, she was the concertmaster for both the Punahou Symphony and Youth Symphony I orchestras. She was the winner of several awards and competitions, including the Honolulu Symphony’s Talent Pool, Morning Music Scholarship, HMTA, and MTNA competitions in Hawai‘i. She continued her music studies with Daniel Rouslin at Willamette University, where she served as the concertmaster for the University Chamber Orchestra and concertmaster/soloist for the Salem Chamber Orchestra. She graduated with Bachelor of Arts degrees in Music and Chemistry from Willamette University and earned a Master of Accounting degree from the University of Hawai‘i.
Music has provided her with several amazing opportunities. She participated in masterclasses/ workshops with Yehudi Menuhin, Kyoko Takezawa, The Emerson String Quartet, Almita Vamos, John Kendall, and other inspiring teachers. She also traveled to Europe with the Ambassadors of Music from Hawa‘ii and performed Beethoven’s 9th Symphony with Japanese chorus groups in Hawai‘i and Japan. Her musical theater collaborations included the world premier and encore productions of Ohana Arts’ original musical “Peace On Your Wings” in Hawai‘i and other local community plays.
Through her first job as a math tutor in high school and teaching English in Japan and violin from the time she was a college student, Laurie has enjoyed working with students and helping them develop the confidence to succeed in their future endeavors.
Laurie currently teaches violin part-time and enjoys playing chamber music. She performs with the Oahu Civic Orchestra and occasionally the Kamuela Philharmonic Orchestra while maintaining her career as an accountant.
JAZZ PROGRAM
Spring Concert
Sunday, April 26, 2026 ✿ 2:00 pm
Studio 909, Musician’s Association of Hawai‘i
Dean Taba, Jazz Program Director
Ryan Howe, Jazz Instructor Noel Okimoto, Jazz Instructor
Jazz II
Work Song
Freddie Freeloader
Doxy
Red Clay
Nat Adderly
Miles Davis
Sonny Rollins
Freddie Hubbard
Jazz I
Django
Morning
African Flower
Boogie Stop Shuffle
Jazz I & II Combined
Wayne’s Thang
About Jazz Program
John Lewis
Clare Fischer
Duke Ellington
Charles Mingus
Kenny Garrett
A relatively new HYS program, HYS Jazz celebrates its sixth anniversary this year! Under the leadership of HYS Jazz Director Dean Taba, and with the support of our dedicated faculty including Dean, Noel Okimoto and Ryan Howe, HYS Jazz offers two levels for students ages 14–18. Jazz II for students who play an instrument but have little to no experience in jazz, and Jazz I for students who are advancing in their jazz and improvisation skills. HYS Jazz students are taught the skills necessary to play as a rhythm section, accompany others and improvise. We are proud to have guitarists, keyboardists, drummers, saxophonists and brass players among our student body, though HYS Jazz is a wholly inclusive environment and welcomes students from all orchestral instruments. HYS Jazz frequently collaborates with highly-respected artists, and in its short history has already performed with Jake Shimabukuro, trumpeter Eric Miyashiro, saxophonist Steve Treseler, vocalist Shari Lyn, and John Valentine! Though the focus of HYS Jazz is music performance, many entrepreneurial facets of being a professional musician or working in the music industry are addressed throughout the year. Students have direct access to top audio engineers, influential musicians, and music business gurus. Learn more about all that HYS Jazz has to offer at https://hiyouthsymphony.org/hysjazz/.
Tenor Saxophone
Kyle Nakagawa
Trombone
Erin Kawamura
Alto Saxophone
Verily Coryell
William Dennis
Koh Garibaldi
Zachary Yeung-Yang
Trumpet
Hana Swanson
Jazz I
Bass Guitar
Robert-John Heck Scharsch
Keyboard
Lorence Dumalan
Jazz II
Trombone
Daniel Wen
Electric Guitar
Xyon-La’Jount Jury
Bass Guitar
Robert-John Heck
Scharsch
Liam Lihalakha
Drum Set/Percussion
Mani Kovacich
Carter Nobuhara
Keyboard
Arthur Fowers
Drum Set/Percussion
Camden Funai
Makana Labuguen
Burton Ueda
Dean Taba Jazz Program Director
PMI Jazz Intensive Director
Ahighly regarded studio and freelance musician, Dean Taba began his musical studies on the piano at the age of 6 and played French horn in the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony. It was a desire to play in the high school jazz band that introduced him to the bass and improvised music. After extensive studies at the Berklee College of Music in Boston and a refinement of his skills on both the acoustic and electric bass, Dean relocated in 1984 to Los Angeles to become one of its most in demand musicians.
Also a respected clinician and educator (Los Angeles Music Academy, Musician’s Institute, Cal-Poly Pomona, Grove School of Music) Dean has recently performed/recorded with Jeff Lorber, David Benoit, Mark Murphy, Jake Shimabukuo, Andy Summers, Sadao Watanabe, The San Francisco Symphony, Hiroshima, Rick Braun, The American Jazz Institute Orchestra, Dave Koz, Jeff Richman, Pauline Wilson, The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, Daniel Ho, Bill Watrous, and many others as well as playing on countless CDs, TV shows, and movie soundtracks.
Ryan
Howe Jazz Instructor
Ryan Howe graduated from Maui High School and completed both his Bachelor’s in Music Education and Master’s in Bassoon Performance at the University of Hawai‘i. He currently teaches middle school band at Moanalua Middle School.
Mr. Howe says: “I have two things that I love to do in life, teach music and cooking. Both are great ways to express one’s self and a great medium to change people's perspectives in life and to teach humanity and good fellowship. Other than music, I like to play sports such as tennis, basketball, and golf. I believe that in order to be a healthy and effective teacher, you must have a balanced life. Mind, Body and Soul. I look forward to working with all students and parents. Please feel free to ask questions, because I believe that everyone is important and they deserve to be heard.”
Noel Okimoto Jazz Instructor
Born and raised in Honolulu, Noel Okimoto has been playing professionally since the age of ten. Noel’s primary instrument is the drum set, but is also an accomplished orchestral percussionist, vibraphonist, composer and clinician. He received his Bachelor’s degree in Percussion from the University of Hawai‘i. Noel has played in Hawai‘i, the mainland USA, and internationally with Freddie Hubbard, The Woody Herman Orchestra, Stan Getz, Bobby Hutcherson, Richie Cole, Bill Watrous, Ernie Watts, Bud Shank, Barney Kessel, Lew Tabackin, Sadao Watanabe, Wynton Marsalis, Ronnie Cuber, Makoto Ozone, Jeff Richman, Larry Coryell, Nestor Torres, Gene Harris, Take 6, David Benoit, Henry Mancini, Nelson Riddle, Steve Allen, Natalie Cole, Kenny Loggins, Michael McDonald, Bob Hope, Rosemary Clooney, Patti Page, Dionne Warwick, and Jake Shimabukuro, among others. He was also a member of the Gabe Baltazar Group for five years. He is also the percussion section leader of the historic Royal Hawaiian Band.
Okimoto recorded an award-winning jazz CD in 2004, entitled ‘Ohana, that received a 4-Star review in Downbeat magazine and positive reviews in other national and international publications.
Mahalo to Our Schools
HYS is grateful to the many public, private, and home schools that play their part in helping to advance music’s role in their communities. The following schools are represented in our various HYS programs this year. We are deeply grateful to all the music educators and private music teachers whose expertise, encouragement, and support mean so much to our students. Every attempt has been made to publish a complete listing of schools for the 2025–2026 season and we regret any errors or omissions that have been made.
‘Aiea High School
Acellus Academy
‘Āina Haina Elementary School
Alaka'i O Kaua'i PCS
Āliamanu Elementary School
Āliamanu Middle School
Campbell High School
Castle High School
Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School
Damien Memorial High School
Einstein Middle School
Enchanted Lake Elementary School
Fletcher Middle School
Haha‘ione Elementary School
Hanahau‘oli School
Hawai‘i Baptist Academy
Hawai‘i Technology Academy
He‘eia Elementary School
Hickam Elementary School
Highlands Intermediate School
Hilo High School
Homeschool
Hongwanji Mission
Honolulu Waldorf
Honouliuli Middle School
‘Iolani School
Island Pacific Academy
Jackson Reed HS
Jarrett Middle School
Jefferson Elementary School
Ka Waihona o Ka Na‘auao PCS
Ka‘elepulu Elementary School
Kāhala Elementary School
Kailua Elementary School
Kailua High School
Kailua Intermediate School
Kaimukī Christian
Kaimukī Middle School
Kaiser High School
Kalāheo High School
Kalani High School
Kamehameha Kapālama Campus
Kamehameha Schools Big Island Campus
Kamehameha Schools Maui Campus
Kāne‘ohe Elementary School
Kanu o ka ‘Āina NCPCS
Kapolei High School
Kapolei Middle School
Kawānanakoa Middle School
King Intermediate School
King Kekaulike High School
Kulia Academy
La Pietra
Lanakila Baptist Schools
Le Jardin Academy
Liholiho Elementary School
Ma‘ema‘e Elementary School
Mānoa Elementary School
Mary, Star of the Sea School
Maryknoll Schools
Maui High School
McKinley High School
Mid-Pacific Institute
Mililani High School
Mililani ‘Ike Elementary School
Mililani Mauka Elementary School
Mililani Middle School
Mililani Waena Elementary School
Moanalua Elementary School
Moanalua High School
Moanalua Middle School
Momilani Elementary School
Myron B. Thompson PCS
Nānāikapono Elementary School
Newport Mill Middle School
Niu Valley Middle School
Noelani Elementary School
Nu‘uanu Elementary School
Orange County School of the Arts
Pauoa Elementary School
Pearl City High School
Pearl City Highlands Elementary School
Pullman High School
Punahou School
Radford High School
Roosevelt High School
Royal Elementary School
Sacred Hearts Academy
Saint Louis School
Salt Lake Elementary School
Sierramont Middle School
St. Andrew’s Schools
St. Mark Lutheran School
Stevenson Middle School
Trinity Christian School
University Laboratory School PCS
Waiākea High School
Wai‘alae Elementary School PCS
Waikīkī Elementary School
Waipahu High School
Washington Middle School
Webling Elementary School
Wilson Elementary School
Woodbury Elementary School
Congratulations, Class of 2026!
Anson Akemoto
Audrey Branner
David Chan
Leia Choi
Airi Choy
Princeton Co
Lorence Dumalan
Elizabeth Fink
Ymin Guo
Rui Han
Robert-John “Ehukai“
Heck Scharsch
Maya Hokada
Ashlyn Ito
Cole Jackson
Xyon-La’Jount ”LJ“ Jury
Cy Kaneshiro
Erin Kawamura
Jeannie Kim
Swan Kim
Albert Ko
Riya Krishnagopalan
Hannah Kwak
Jibhum "Donald" Lee
Flora Liao
Brian Lim
Nanami Mata
Matthew Meinert
Anna Motohashi
Kyle Nakagawa
Lily Nomura
Jason Okutani
Lacey Park
Chloe Petilos
Alexis Phansaithong
Chloe Madison Quiddaoen
Kolleen Roessig
Zachary Rooks
Paisley Sagadraca
Isabella Santos
Malina Sautter
Daniel Schoen
Max Shinno
Sevastyan Swan
Arabella Tan
Rylan Terayama
Eva Tramuto
Trinity Vong
Lulu Wang
YiJia Wang
Jessica-Holly Wiemer
Nicholas Xu
Yoshiki ”Justin“
Yamada
Christopher Yara
Qinglin ”Charles“ Ye
Ichiro Yeh
Eileen Zhang
Message from Joseph Stepec
Dear Class of 2026,
Congratulations on reaching this milestone! You made it! If you've been in YSI for just this past year, or more, I hope that you take with you a love for music, for art and for culture. The music we play is a representation of our own humanity and our world. By playing in an orchestra each week, you have learned a great deal about people, about cultures; it's always more than the notes, people, it's about the intentions behind them and about coming together as one.
Take these valuable lessons and apply them to every facet of your future.
Go out into the world and make a difference!
Congratulations, Class of 2026! Stay in touch with us here at HYS!
Mr. Joseph Stepec
Director of Orchestral Activities
Conductor, Youth Symphony I Artistic Director, Pacific Music Institute
Message from Elden Seta
To the incredible Seniors of the Hawaiʻi Youth Symphony orchestras,
Although our time together has been very brief, it is with great honor and joy for me to be part of the HYS
‘Ohana once again. As an alumnus of the Hawaiʻi Youth Symphony, I know how much growth and learning this program offers. The lessons extend well beyond music. While music greatly impacts intellectual development, it also profoundly influences the humanistic values essential to everyday life and to building a better global community.
Music teaches us from the inside out. Your parents have always told you not to judge others or things by their appearance, but by what is inside. This is what makes music such a powerful influence, sparking positive change in each of us.
In the short time we've shared, we've already taken positive steps toward understanding that, as challenging as change can be, our mindset and values help us overcome obstacles by focusing on what we can change and not letting fear prevent us from achieving success.
You all understand this because you have lived it. Now is the time to take these lessons and apply them to face the big challenges ahead. You have the choice and the chance to shape the world into what you want it to be. Your futures are unwritten and full of potential. Go out there and create the impactful, successful story and masterpiece that is YOUR LIFE.
Please take good care of yourselves and always cherish the memories of your musical journey and your time with the Hawaiʻi Youth Symphony.
To the YSII Seniors, never forget who you are and recognize that your existence holds great meaning. Step into the world with confidence, humility, and kindness. You are now official ambassadors and alumni of the Hawaiʻi Youth Symphony. Welcome to the club!
Always remember, you are YS TOO!!!
Love,
Mr. Elden Seta
Conductor, Youth Symphony II
Message from Wayne Fanning
Dear Class of 2026,
On behalf of all of us at the Hawaiʻi Youth Symphony, congratulations on completing this phase of your journey. As you move on to the next phase of your life, whether it be college, work, military, volunteer work, or a combination of these, I wish you all the happiness and success in the world! Thank you for continuing with music for so long. I am sure that you had amazing experiences in your school ensembles as well, and we are grateful that you participated in HYS.
My greatest fear is that music is slowly becoming something we do conditionally; that is, if we have time, if we finish our homework in other classes, if we keep our grades up, if we can afford it, if we can find a teacher, if we can fit it in our class schedule, etc. I hope that your generation can reverse that trend and ensure that music is a vital part of every school, community, neighborhood, etc.
I am who I am because of music, and so are all of you. Students who play music engage their entire mind and body in a way that nothing else can replicate. They think differently, and they care differently. As you move on to other aspects of your life, you may not be able to play music daily if you are not majoring in music. However, I hope that you will continue to enjoy, advocate, support, and occasionally participate in music wherever you go.
I will be the first to admit that you also need to read, write, and do math in life. However, you also need to assimilate, care, empathize, belong, initiate, react, adapt, assist, create, feel, etc. Music provides all of this and so much more!
To those of you that I was fortunate enough to teach, thank you for the opportunity to work with you. I have enjoyed it more than you can possibly imagine. If our paths have not crossed much, do know that I am still very proud of you!
Best wishes and congratulations once again!
Aloha, Mr. Wayne Fanning Conductor, Concert Orchestra
Message from Dean Taba
Dear Ehukai, Erin, Kyle,
LJ,
and Lorence,
It has been our great pleasure to work with you and to see and hear your musical and personal growth. Your commitment, hard work and focus have helped this program advance at an astonishing pace!
We used to say that what we teach at HYS Jazz is “To adapt to changing circumstances with a minimum of fuss”. We still believe this to be true but what you have been developing is broader than that. It is something that all great musicians (Jazz, Classical, Rock, Folk, R&B, and all styles) and great collaborators (in ANY endeavor) do well.
It is the ability to know when to “speak up,” and potentially change things and when to “self-edit,” and go with the flow. These phrases are in parentheses because they are meant to apply MUSICALLY, but also verbally and in writing throughout all collaborations and relationships in your life.
Your future is bright as are your musical aspirations. Please do keep in touch!
Congratulations,
Mr. Dean Taba
Mr. Ryan Howe
Mr. Noel Okimoto
Class of 2026
Anson Akemoto
Youth Symphony I / Cello / ‘Iolani School
Anson began his musical journey in 6th grade and joined Hawai‘i Youth Symphony during his freshman year. HYS quickly became one of the most meaningful parts of his musical life, especially for the opportunity to perform some of the most challenging (and lengthy) symphonic repertoire he has ever played, including An American in Paris, Romeo and Juliet, Shostakovich Symphony No. 5, and other major orchestral works.
Through HYS, Anson has learned the value of collaboration and sharing music with the community. Some of his most memorable experiences include service concerts and travel, with his first trips to Maui and the Big Island made possible through HYS. He is deeply grateful to his parents for the many sacrifices they have made in support of his music education, as well as to his private lesson teacher, Mr. Doike. He would also like to sincerely thank Mr. Masaki, Mrs. O, and Mr. Stepec for being such inspiring conductors and mentors throughout his time in HYS and his friends for making music such a joyful and lasting part of his life.
This fall, Anson plans to attend Johns Hopkins University, where he hopes to study molecular biology on the pre-med track while continuing to stay involved in music.
eAudrey Branner
Concert
Orchestra / Cello / Roosevelt High School
As of 2026, Hawai‘i Youth Symphony has been part of my life for almost a decade. It’s crazy to think how my childhood was deeply shaped by rehearsals, concerts, and weekends spent making music with an ever-growing community.
I moved through ISE, SOE, CSO, and CO, and each ensemble challenged me in new ways. A special thank you to Ms. Doike, Mr. Uyehara, Mr. Lin, and Mr. Fanning, and to everyone who makes HYS possible—you are truly amazing.
Next year, I will attend Wheaton College in Illinois, majoring in biology as I pursue a future medical career. I look forward to continuing cello in the Wheaton College Symphony Orchestra.
So many people have shaped my music journey and brought me to where I am today. Thank you, Ms. Ching, for twelve years of weekly lessons that helped me truly love the cello. Mom and Dad, thank you for everything—you are my inspiration. To my siblings, who are wholly part of who I am, I love you both so much. Nana and Papa, thank you for watching my performances, even from across the ocean. And to everyone who has supported and encouraged me along the way, there are no words to express how much you mean to me. I can’t believe this chapter is coming to an end.
David Chan
Youth Symphony II / Cello / Mililani High School
David started playing the cello in the fourth grade, enticed by the opportunity to sit while performing. Little did he know, he had actually chosen the best string instrument of all. After participating in his elementary, middle, and high school orchestral programs, David's peers recommended he try out for the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony. David enjoys making and sharing the love of music with others and hopes to continue playing for many years to come.
In addition to being a cellist, David has obtained multiple regional and state titles with his swimming team across his high school years. He joined the Mililani Trojan Marching Band as a bass 5 in his senior year and was awarded "rookie of the season" after his team's dominant performance at competitions. He aspires to major in biomedical engineering and ultimately become a physician like his father.
David would like to thank his conductors: Mrs. Fagaragan, Mr. Mento, Mr. Hirata, and Mr. Peña, for making his music journey possible. He would also like to thank his friends: Alexis, Andrew, Angelo, Brayden, Brycen, Cole, Jojo, Rylie, Yuma, and everyone else he has performed with, for showing him how fun and beautiful music can be. Most importantly, David would like to thank his brothers, mother, and father for sparking his interest in music and allowing him to meet so many lifelong companions.
Leia Choi
Youth Symphony I / Violin / ‘Iolani School
HYS has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I started out as a little kid who could barely hold a violin, and now, all these years later, I can’t imagine who I’d be without this community. It’s crazy how much time has passed, and it’s definitely bittersweet to be a senior, but it means so much to be able to give back to the place that’s given me so much.
To mom and dad: thank you for driving me to rehearsal (and waiting in the car every time I said “just five more minutes”).
I’m endlessly grateful to all the coaches, mentors, and fellow musicians who’ve inspired me with their musicianship and passion. I’ve looked up to so many of them over the years and feel incredibly lucky to have learned from and played alongside people I truly admire.
Thank you, Mr. Stepec, for believing in us and holding us to such a high standard—it’s made all the difference.
And to all my friends: thank you for making these years unforgettable. From late-night laughs on neighbor island trips to the thrill of performing onstage together (and all the memories outside of music), you’ve made this journey so special. I love you all so much. Know that I’m always one phone call away <3
Airi Choy
Youth Symphony II / Violin / Kalani High School
Iinitially started Hawai‘i Youth Symphony because my mom forced me to in my freshman year of high school. Despite her forcing me, I am beyond grateful she pushed me to become a part of this community. I have always played my violin solo, and never thought I would enjoy playing with others so much until I joined the Youth Symphony.
One thing I took away from HYS is the ability to enjoy performing for an audience, and that music really does bring people together. Some of my best memories at HYS were the Listen and Learn concerts, not just because we got to skip school, but being able to
inspire kids with music was a great experience. In addition, I got to meet new people from different schools and made new friends because of HYS. I probably enjoyed the concerts and rehearsals mainly because I was able to see my friends from different schools every week.
I would like to thank my mom for always supporting and helping me get out of my comfort zone. I don’t think I would be in HYS without you and have these great memories from it. Thank you to Mrs. Anna Womack for always encouraging me to play out and believe in my playing. I hope to continue music in the future, wherever I am.
Princeton Co
Youth Symphony II / Cello / Kalani High School
Listening to others is a skill that transcends music. By being in HYS, I was able to truly experience and learn the skills that are needed in playing in an orchestra. An important adaptation I've made during this time is developing the skill of listening to others. It's incredibly difficult to be completely aware of your surroundings as you immerse yourself in your music.
Oftentimes, it's more comfortable to close everything off and fully focus on playing the music. It's harder to leave yourself vulnerable and connect with the rest of the orchestra since it also leaves you susceptible to distractions. However, the ability to work with others in a smooth and coordinated fashion becomes a necessary ability in rehearsals and concerts. Recognizing the other sounds of the orchestra and how your part fits in is a crucial, learned skill.
This principle extends to other walks of life--not just in the concert hall. Being constantly aware of the mechanisms surrounding you applies to any job requiring any sort of coordination. Jobs like Air Traffic Control need to do this all the time.
This is the superpower I've developed in my participation with HYS. In my future endeavors in a job where communication and teamwork are key (Engineering), this skill will always remain fundamentally valuable.
Lorence Dumalan
Jazz I / Keyboard/Piano / McKinley High School
Although I started my HYS journey in my senior year, it has been an unforgettable experience. After my band director encouraged me to participate in PMI for jazz, I decided to give it a try. That experience inspired me to audition for the HYS Jazz Program, and to my surprise, I got into Jazz I! Initially, I was scared to the core because the students around me had more experience, so I feared I wouldn’t reach the standards. However, I soon realized that this was a learning experience for us all, and we all strived to be better and play music that makes us feel good.
I want to thank: the HYS Jazz faculty for contributing to our growth as musicians, my band director for pushing me to chase these opportunities AND for putting me on piano in the first place (my main instrument is saxophone, but I had two years of a piano class), my friends and peers who have encouraged and inspired me to push beyond my limits, my dad for driving me to almost all of the rehearsals, and most importantly, who I absolutely couldn’t have done this without, my mom for continuously working to financially support me in my music journey.
After graduation, I plan to study at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa and major in psychology. This is Lorence, SIGNING OUT!
Elizabeth Fink
Youth Symphony I / Violin / Mid-Pacific Institute
Ijoined the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony in eighth grade, fresh out of the pandemic, looking for friends—people who, like me, loved performing and listening to classical music. What I didn’t expect was to find a place that held me through everything else: the laughter, the frustration, the moments when music felt like the only thing that made sense. HYS became more than a community; it became a mentor, one that showed me discipline, resilience, and how to accept criticism without letting it define me. These lessons followed me beyond rehearsal rooms and concerts, shaping how I approached IB classes, volunteering, and paddling—essentially, how I showed up when things felt difficult. What I know now is that none of this happened in isolation. Without the guidance and support of people like Mr. Stepec, Mr. Masaki, Ms. Watanabe, and my friends, I wouldn’t be able to say that I’m looking ahead with confidence.
I’m proud to be attending Wellesley College this fall, where I intend to major in neuroscience, carrying with me everything HYS taught me about commitment and growth. HYS didn’t just prepare me for music—it prepared me for what comes next. And for that, I’m endlessly grateful.
eYmin Guo
Youth Symphony I / Violin / ‘Iolani School
Ibegan playing the violin at age of four under the guidance of Dr. Nikki Ebisu. Being part of HYS for the past 10 years, performing in CSO, CO, YSII and all the way to YSI, I am grateful to have grown within the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony family which has been a significant part of my life and a core memory that I will cherish forever. Each orchestra has challenged me to improve not only as a musician, but also as a person. Having the opportunity to play some of the most exciting orchestral works in HYS meant a lot of practicing and listening within the orchestra, which have taught me the values of patience, discipline, and teamwork. With all the musicians contributing to their part, we have been able to make YSI the orchestra that I once idolized as a kid in CSO.
Outside of YSI, I enjoy running, being part of ‘Iolani’s cross country and track team, and I have been a member of ‘Iolani’s Symphonic Orchestra as well. I also like traveling around the world to explore different cultures, but most importantly, all the different types of foods!
In college, I plan to major in neuroscience while still playing violin on the side, as it is an instrument that brings people together. The focus, collaboration, and persistence I developed through HYS will continue to guide me in my future pursuits.
eRui Han
Youth Symphony II / Viola / Kalani High School
Istarted on violin and switched to viola in seventh grade. I was on and off at first with my school orchestra, but I joined Hawai‘i Youth Symphony two years ago to play with more experienced musicians and challenge myself. Even though I’ve only been in YSII for two years, I’ve had so much fun performing and making friends. I especially enjoyed playing challenging pieces because it makes it feel worth it when I’m able to perform them in concerts. All the conductors who worked with YSII made rehearsals fun and helped me grow as a musician. Balancing rehearsals with the Kalani High School orchestra taught me time management and commitment. After graduation, I plan to attend the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa and major in biology.
Robert-John “Ehukai” Heck Scharsch
Jazz I / Bass Guitar / Kamehameha Kapālama
Ehukai began his Hawai‘i Youth Symphony journey in his senior year after being recommended by his own kumu at school. He joined the HYS Jazz ensemble as a bass guitarist and enjoyed growing with his classmates and the hands-on approach of the teachers. Through Hawai‘i Youth Symphony, Ehukai learned the value of collaboration and working with others to achieve a goal. And he plans to apply what he's learned in the rest of his life through continuing to collaborate with others and building long lasting connections with others around him.
Before Hawai‘i Youth Symphony, he was introduced to music through his high school’s marching band, and was introduced to jazz bass through his school's Jazz Band. He is also a student in his school's Music & Technology class, which aims to teach students how to write, produce, and release music.
After high school, he plans to attend the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa as a Music Composition Major.
Maya Hokada
Youth Symphony I / Oboe / Roosevelt High School
Maya’s journey with the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony began in 10th grade, a step she took thanks to the encouragement of her private teacher. As an oboist and English horn player in YSI for three years, she found that the greatest reward was the people. Through their shared passion for music, she formed friendships she will treasure for years to come. Beyond the connections, HYS taught Maya to approach every moment with perceptiveness, treating each rehearsal as an opportunity to absorb the expertise surrounding her. She learned that growth comes from staying open, finding lessons hidden in every experience.
Beyond the symphony, Maya's creativity and dedication shine equally bright. As Color Guard Captain for the Roosevelt High School Marching Band, she received the National Color Guard Student Award. Her artistic talents have earned her a Gold Key and Silver Key in the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. Serving as Student Body Vice President, she enjoys bringing people together through collaboration.
This fall, Maya will pursue her passion for design as an architecture major, carrying with her the discipline and collaborative spirit she cultivated through music. She extends her deepest gratitude to her parents for their unwavering support; to Ms. O, for giving her the push she needed; and to Professor Stepec, for his unmatched energy and, of course, his delicious chocolate chip cookies.
Ashlyn Ito
Youth Symphony I / Cello / ‘Iolani School
Ashlyn began her string journey in third grade when she and eight friends decided to learn the cello together. She loved it so much that she joined several Hawai‘i Youth Symphony programs, including CSO and PMI. In ninth grade, she became a member of YSI and has since enjoyed four years of performing incredible repertoire with a full symphony orchestra. Through YSI, Ashlyn has learned about the importance of consistency and bringing passion into her work. She will miss all the friends she has made and the unique experiences, such as the outreach trips that were tiring but endlessly fun.
Outside of HYS, Ashlyn enjoys trying new activities and foods with friends and traveling with her family. At school, she can be found rehearsing with ‘Iolani’s Orchestra 5 and chamber music program, on the basketball court, or competing in track & field and flag football. Ashlyn would like to thank her teachers and mentors who have helped her build confidence and inspired her to grow as a musician, including Maestro Stepec, the HYS faculty, and the ‘Iolani Orchestra staff. She is also deeply thankful to her mom and dad for their unwavering love and encouragement. Playing the cello has shaped Ashlyn in countless ways, and she hopes to continue HYS’ mission of sharing the gift of music as she begins the next chapter of her life.
Cole Jackson
Youth Symphony II / Violin / Mililani High School
Istarted playing the violin at nine years old and it has since become a major part of my life and has shaped who I am today. My Hawai‘i Youth Symphony journey began in the ISE program with Mr. Uyehara in 2018, SOE program with Ms. Doike, CO program with Mr. Fanning & Ms. Watanabe, and I will close my time in HYS in the YSII program with Mr. Peña & Mr. Seta. Being a member of the HYS has given me a greater appreciation for music ensembles and classical music and has inspired me to continue with my music journey after high school and beyond.
I would like to thank my family for supporting me. I would also like to thank my violin teacher, Ms. Laurie Shimabukuro, for supporting me throughout my music journey and encouraging me to participate in programs such as the Solo & Ensemble festivals, along with our yearly recitals and always encouraging me to challenge myself with difficult music.
I am grateful for all the opportunities that have come my way through my experiences at the HYS.
Xyon-La’Jount “LJ” Jury
Youth Symphony I & Jazz II / Trombone & Electric Guitar / Kapolei High School
My name is Xyon-La’Jount Jury and I play the trombone and guitar. I have been a part of HYS for three years. I have also been a member of the OBDA Select and Honor Bands throughout my time playing music. I was born and raised in Hawai‘i, and if I had to describe myself in one word, it would be curious. I am always eager to explore whether through music or through life itself. I believe there is so much to learn from the world around us, and I want to absorb as much of it as I can.
Music has always been in my life, so much so that music is a part of who I am. From a young age, I have been surrounded by music, and over time it has grown into both my passion and my purpose. I want to share that passion with anyone willing to listen.
Being part of HYS has given me the opportunity to do exactly that. Through rehearsals and performances, I am surrounded by people who share the same dedication and love for music. In that space, I truly understand what it means when people say music brings people together. It creates a connection, a camaraderie, and community.
HYS has helped me realize that music is not just a chapter of my life, it is something I hope to continue pursuing beyond high school and for the rest of my life.
Cy Kaneshiro
Youth Symphony I / Trombone / Roosevelt High School
Joining the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony (HYS) my sophomore year via the PMI recruitment for Concert Orchestra was a definitive turning point for me. Over three years, I progressed through the CO, YSII, and YSI ensembles, evolving significantly as both a musician and an individual. HYS provided a unique bridge to my future career; specifically, in YSII I had the transformative opportunity to conduct and lead a rehearsal.
Across all groups, I gained invaluable insights from professional musicians. A deeply meaningful highlight was joining my peers to honor the lifelong dedication of Mr. Masaki and Mrs. Ochi-Onishi to the music community.
Outside of HYS, I was a pole vaulter for the Roosevelt High School track and field team and currently serve as a soldier and trombone player in the Hawai‘i Army National Guard. These roles have instilled in me the discipline and leadership necessary for my next chapter. Following graduation, I will attend the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa to major in Music Education. My time with HYS and my service to my country have not only prepared me for the rigors of a university program but have also solidified my desire to inspire the next generation of musicians, just as my conductors and mentors have inspired me.
eErin Kawamura
Jazz I / Trombone / Mid-Pacific Institute
My name is Erin Kawamura, and I play the trombone. I started in HYS through PMI’s jazz program two years ago. I had never played in a combo before then, but I wanted to give it a shot, and I’m so glad I did. I ended up really loving it and continued in Jazz II and now Jazz I.
Being a part of HYS has truly opened both my eyes and my ears to the endless possibilities music has to offer. It constantly reminds me that there is always something new to learn, and I love that. I’m thankful that it has given me an outlet to try new things, be creative, and grow, not only as a musician but in confidence and perseverance as well.
I am so grateful for this opportunity to make great music with even better people. The musicians around me, both students and teachers alike, have challenged me, supported me, and most of all inspired me more than they know. Thank you so much for the lessons, the music, and all the fun times we’ve had!
Jeannie Kim
Youth Symphony I / Clarinet / Kalani High School
Music firmly planted its seed in my life the moment I chose the clarinet as a carefree sixth-grader in beginning band. Since then, I have made it my personal ambition to grow as a musician and truly find joy in creating and sharing music. My journey with the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony began alongside my high school career. As a freshman, I had the opportunity to perform with YSII, and by junior year, I was honored to join YSI. Playing alongside such talented and driven musicians continually inspired me and deepened my love for performing. From tackling challenging solo passages to participating in Listen & Learn concerts, HYS taught me invaluable lessons about resilience and community.
Beyond HYS, I expanded my musical experiences as principal clarinetist for the Oahu Band Directors Association High School Select Band and the Kalani Wind Ensemble. The discipline and collaboration I developed through music have shaped who I am both in and out of the concert hall. I carried these lessons into activities such as canoe paddling and community service.
I am deeply grateful to my band directors, HYS staff, friends, and family for their unwavering support throughout this journey. After high school, I plan to continue my studies at Boston College as a nursing major, carrying the passion, perseverance, and sense of community that music has given me.
Swan Kim
Youth Symphony I / Viola / Punahou School
Swan has been part of the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony since the ninth grade, beginning in YSII then joining YSI in her sophomore year. She has also been involved in various string quartet ensembles within YSI, performing at community outreach concerts. Swan enjoys the rigor and diversity of the HYS repertoire, and is deeply grateful for all of her conductors and clinicians who have guided her throughout her musical journey. She would also like to thank her family and friends for their constant support.
In addition to her involvement with YSI, Swan is also the co-principal violist of the Punahou Symphony Orchestra and enjoys performing in the Punahou Chamber Music program. Outside of playing in musical ensembles, Swan is the Editor-in-Chief of the school newspaper, Ka Punahou, volunteers at the Bishop Museum, and has a pet cat named ippeuni.
Albert Ko
Youth Symphony I / Viola / Punahou School
Creativity with collaborative constraint: from my very first YSII rehearsal in ninth grade, and through the ups and downs of three years of rehearsal, performance, and opportunity in YSI, I've enjoyed growing as a musician and exploring the depths of what orchestral and chamber music has to offer. I'm truly grateful for the opportunity to be creative, inquisitive, and to perform great music alongside my friends.
Outside of HYS, I am a member of the Punahou Symphony Orchestra and Chamber Music Program. Beyond my musical pursuits, I am passionate about the scientific study of human language, and plan to study linguistics and statistics in college. I also hope to continue playing viola and composing music.
Looking back, I'm incredibly thankful for my parents, who have always supported my musical and extracurricular endeavors; Mr. Craig Young, my orchestra teacher of seven years and viola instructor; Maestro Stepec and the HYS staff, for creating so many opportunities to perform (whether for a film score or on the Big Island); and all my friends and peers for helping my grow as a musician, and importantly, as a person.
Riya Krishnagopalan
Youth Symphony I / Violin / Punahou School
Ihave been a member of the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony since my freshman year, participating in both the Concert Orchestra and Youth Symphony I. I have always enjoyed playing in a large ensemble, and this was my first experience performing with a full orchestra. Through this opportunity, I learned a lot about collaborating with different sections and fellow musicians. I believe these skills translate beyond the orchestra, as being part of the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony has also taught me the importance of teamwork and dedication. I would like to thank Ms. Higa, Mr. Iggy, and Mr. Stepec for always pushing me to do my best. I also want to thank my parents for all their support in my musical journey. In addition to playing the violin, I also enjoy playing piano, tennis, and baking. In the future, I hope to pursue a career as a doctor and to continue making music a part of my life.
Hannah Kwak
Youth Symphony I / Viola / ‘Iolani
School
Ijoined the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony in ninth grade after hearing how the organization empowers students to connect with their communities through music. From the beginning, I was inspired by HYS’s mission and the dedication of its musicians. I am grateful to have connected with friends and mentors who I would not have met without HYS. Some of my favorite memories include the annual Nā Mele gala, where we have the incredible opportunity to perform alongside local artists, and participating in the HYS chamber music program. Through HYS, I have learned invaluable lessons about communication, resilience, and perseverance—lessons that I never would have expected to learn in rehearsals.
At school, I am a member of ‘Iolani’s Symphonic Orchestra and Chamber Music Program. Beyond music, I am involved in biomedical research through ‘Iolani’s Community Science Department, the University of Hawai‘i Native Hawaiian Health, and Hawai‘i Pacific Neuroscience. I also serve on the ‘Iolani Community and Civic Engagement Student Leadership Committee and various outreach programs including ScholaRise and SHINE. After graduation, I plan to study biomedical sciences and healthcare management in college.
eJibhum Lee
Youth Symphony I / Cello / Punahou School
From a young age, Jibhum was immersed in a diverse array of instruments, ranging from the piano, harmonica, cello, and recorder. However, he eventually found his particular affinity for playing the cello in first grade and began performing on stage for audiences — cultivating his confidence and enthusiasm for performing. Beginning in third grade, he started studying cello with Dr. Sung Chan Chang and participated in Hawai‘i Youth Symphony’s Summer Strings program under the guidance of Mr. Jeff Hamano. Later, he joined YSII and eventually became a member of YSI.
In school, Jibhum is an active participant in the various ensembles, including the Punahou Symphony Orchestra and Punahou Chamber Music Program. Being a member of such ensembles reemphasized the value of music in everyday life for Jibhum. Furthermore, he is immensely grateful for the privilege of playing and creating music with many talented musicians from around the island through the HYS program. When Jibhum is not practicing before rehearsals, he can be found graphing things on Desmos, playing the New York Times Crossword puzzle, going on ludicrously long walks, and struggling with reading primary-source documents for his AP EURO class. He expresses his sincere gratitude to Maestro Joseph Stepec, Dr. Sung Chan Chang, Mr. Craig Young, Dr. Jonas Carlson, Mrs. Helen Chao-Casano, and his parents for their steadfast support throughout his musical expedition.
Flora Liao
Youth Symphony I / Flute / ‘Iolani School
Flora joined Hawai‘i Youth Symphony in 10th grade, eager to challenge herself in a more demanding environment, encouraged by her private teacher and inspired by the music she had admired in online concerts. Through HYS, she came to admire the focus and teamwork that go into shaping each concert, and the shared commitment of students and staff to making music at a high level. The Listen & Learn service concerts and trips to neighboring islands were especially impactful, showing her how music can connect people and communities. Flora is grateful for the opportunity also to work alongside the HSO, which challenged her technically and deepened her understanding of making music together.
Beyond music, Flora hopes to pursue a future in health care and policy. She serves through her fellowship with the Center for Tomorrow’s Leaders and her work with Senator Schatz’s office. In her free time, she loves sharing music with the elderly patients, connecting with them through performance and conversation. She is deeply grateful for all the cookies, the friendships, the incredibly talented peers, and the music shared along this journey.
Brian Lim
Youth Symphony I / Violin / Kalani High School
The Hawai‘i Youth Symphony has been one of the most meaningful parts of my life. It’s crazy to think about how much time we’ve spent together with the long practices, the concerts, the inside jokes, and the moments that didn’t always go perfectly but somehow became the memories we laugh about the most. With every challenge and every success, we always experienced it with each other. I remember looking up to the older students when I was younger and wondering what it would feel like to finally be in their shoes, but now in a blink of an eye we’re the seniors. We became the ones the younger students are watching now and the thought of that sounds unreal.
I’m very grateful for the directors who pushed me to be better than I thought I could be, to my friends who made every rehearsal something to look forward to, and for my family who supported me the entire way for a very long time. It’s hard to say goodbye to something that’s been such a big part of my life and I know this isn’t really the end for my journey, but a chapter of life that I finished with many other chapters to come in life. The music is not just sound but another language to express and connect to yourself those around you.
Nanami
Mata
Youth Symphony II / Percussion / Kaiser High School
Iam grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given to play alongside such wonderful musicians during my time at HYS. Thank you to all my teachers and peers who believed in me and helped me grow into a better musician.
Matthew Meinert
Youth Symphony I / Horn / Kalāheo High School
Matthew‘s musical journey began on violin, piano, and voice across the country before making Hawai‘i his home in eighth grade and discovering horn. As Matthew shared at Nā Mele, “Throughout my family’s many moves, music has consistently served as my anchor-providing community when I was the newcomer, creative expression when words weren’t enough, emotional connection in unfamiliar places, and a language for abstract concepts that transcend geographical boundaries.” HYS has been a musical home for Matthew. Seeking to elevate his playing and gain exposure to a broader range of repertoire and direction, he joined HYS in Concert Orchestra his Sophomore year, then YSII and into YSI senior year.
Beyond music, Matthew is an Eagle Scout, a National Youth Leadership Training Staff Instructor, and a Crew Leader at Philmont Scout Ranch. He serves as Drum Major/President of the Kalāheo Band, President of the Japan Club, and is a National Honor Society member and founder of The Kalāheo Closet, a community service project. A Varsity Swim Captain and Varsity XC, he also holds a Black Belt 1st Degree in Taekwondo and was a chosen ambassador for the Kalāheo-Otake Japanese Exchange Program.
With opportunity comes obligation and service. While Matthew dreams of being a philosopher in retirement, his goal is to pursue degrees in Physics, Music, and Language, and to explore the ideas that connect them, ultimately to become a teacher, ensuring future generations have access to the same transformative power of learning and music that has shaped him.
Anna Motohashi
Youth Symphony II / Flute / Kalani High School
As a senior flutist with the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony, I joined the program in 2023 to challenge myself and continue growing as a musician. Eager to experience performing in a full symphony orchestra alongside other dedicated and talented young musicians, I found that HYS provided that opportunity and so much more.
What I have loved most about HYS is the strong sense of community and shared commitment to excellence. From focused rehearsals to the excitement of concert performances, I have grown both technically and artistically. Being part of an orchestra has taught me the importance of listening, not just to my own playing, but to those around me. I have learned discipline, responsibility, perseverance, and how to contribute to something bigger than myself, Outside of orchestra, I balance my academic work with extracurricular activities and personal interests. Throughout high school, I have taken pride in challenging myself and stepping outside of my comfort zone. After graduation, I look forward to embracing the next chapter of my life and pursuing new opportunities with the confidence and resilience I have developed through my experiences.
Kyle Nakagawa
Jazz I / Saxophone / Punahou School
Ilearned tenor sax in 10th grade, and joined HYS Jazz II in 11th grade. I am grateful for being able to work with wonderful and gifted musicians: Dean Taba, Noel Okimoto, Ryan Howe, as well as other world-renowned guest artists. Outside of HYS, I play in the O‘ahu College Jazz Band, as well as “Carter and Friends”, with Carter Nobuhara, Mani Kovacich, Kiron Toma, and Ian Delse.
I joined Jazz I in 12th grade. This was the period where I grew the most.
Across Hawai‘i, I was fortunate enough to play in multiple events that truly showed me the beautiful gift of music. Playing jazz has taught me many life lessons, such as cooperation, communication, and perseverance. Most notably, I learned how to “Adapt to changing circumstances with a minimum of fuss.” Unlike classical music, jazz allows me to express myself creatively and provides an outlet for personal freedom and self-discovery. HYS has impacted my life in ways previously thought unimaginable. I now understand the importance of music that should be present in all of our lives.
Outside of music, I am an Eagle Scout and enjoy being outdoors. I plan on attending Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska, to major in Biology. My goal is to one day work in the medical field. I will continue to play saxophone no matter where I am.
Lily Nomura
Youth Symphony I / Violin / Punahou School
Being a member of the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony has been such a meaningful part of my high school years. I have loved meeting other students who share a passion for music and feeling connected to a larger musical community. Through rehearsals and performances, I developed as a musician while also gaining greater self-assurance and excitement for what lies ahead.
One of the most important lessons I learned from HYS is the value of showing up, even when something feels intimidating at first. Long rehearsals with so many talented peers could sometimes seem daunting, but I always left feeling energized and fulfilled after making music together. These moments showed me that stepping outside of my comfort zone often leads to growth and joy, a perspective I hope to carry with me into future opportunities and new environments.
After graduation, I will attend Boston University to study psychology. Although I do not plan to major in music, I hope to continue playing violin and stay involved in musical communities wherever I go. Hawai‘i Youth Symphony has shaped my musicianship, perseverance, and appreciation for collaboration. I am incredibly grateful for this experience and for all of the memories and friendships I have gained along the way.
Jason Okutani
Youth Symphony I / Flute / Hawai‘i Baptist Academy
Within my three years at HYS, I have been pushed to my utmost limits. In that time, I learned how to navigate being disciplined in my craft, while focusing and putting my full efforts into everything I do. In addition, HYS helped me realize that time management is excruciatingly important. Whether it comes to music, extracurricular activities, jobs, or even rudimentary tasks, learning how to fundamentally structure your life and prepare yourself to be in a space to grow and learn are incredibly important when entering new areas or transitions.
Throughout my HYS career, I not only grew as a musician, but as an individual. Being a part of multiple community bands and outside events like the Honolulu Wind Ensemble, Hawai‘i Symphonic Band, and performing in hundreds of concerts helped me learn how to be confident in myself and my capabilities. This growth has taken me down paths of poetic writing, acting, and meaningful relationships with a myriad of new and amazing people that have shaped my life in a multitude of seen and unseen ways.
After graduating from Hawai‘i Baptist Academy, I plan to pursue a degree in music performance at University of Nevada, Las Vegas. I am incredibly grateful for HYS showing me teasers of what it is like to be a true musician.
Lacey Park
Youth Symphony II / Violin / Kalani High School
Ihad given up. Two consecutive years, I practiced the audition music but each time not actually auditioning. Having a big fear of rejection and failing, I was scared to be judged and possibly make mistakes. However, the third year I had a change of mind and will never forget the moment I saw the email notification that I got into YSII. All my worries came down to this moment and I got in! Truthfully, after playing the violin for four years, I decided I never wanted to do any more auditions and originally chose to quit orchestra going into high school. As someone who once made the decision to quit playing all together because of auditions, I am proud of myself for committing to auditioning for HYS.
Attending rehearsals every Sunday, the joy of performing at concerts, and meeting new people was an experience special to YSII. I am glad I made this decision to audition twice and to even continue orchestra in school. I will be graduating high school soon and my college plans are to go to University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, majoring in Environmental Design to become an Architect. I am excited to see what opportunities I will choose to take on, knowing I will never give up that easily anymore.
Chloe Petilos
Youth Symphony II / Violin / Kaiser High School
Ijoined HYS in freshman year and have been in it ever since. I’ve been in CO and YSII, and participated in the chamber music program for the past two years. During the summer, I’ve participated in the PMI Strings Program. The thing I like the most about being in HYS is being able to play music with other people in various settings, from orchestra to quartet.
Outside of HYS, I also serve as President of the Math Team at my school. After high school, I plan to major in Computer Science, but don’t know which college I’ll be attending yet.
I’m forever thankful for the opportunities HYS has provided me throughout these four years, and am grateful for the guidance I received from my conductors.
Alexis Phansaithong
Youth Symphony I / Violin / Moanalua High School
Ihad first joined YSI in my sophomore year, due to its reputable standing, and my friend's constant pleas for me to make "the best musical choice in your life.”
From the very first minute I sat down in rehearsal, I was strongly captivated by the music's inner workings, the depth to which it was taken, and, above all, the sincerity of the emotions it evoked.
All this is commendable to HYS's wonderful set of staff and directors. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Stepec, Mrs. Liu, Mr. Jang, Mr. Fanning, Ms. Watanabe, Mr. Ching, and Mr. Seta. I feel so privileged to be part of curating the greatest works in history, and incredibly indebted to my hardworking peers for fostering my musical journey. I would like to reiterate my thanks to HYS for its compassion towards our generation’s finest musicians.
eChloe Madison Quiddaoen
Youth Symphony I / Bass / Moanalua High School
After beginning her bass studies in her sophomore year at Moanalua High School, Chloe Quiddaoen attended the Pacific Music Institute this past summer. The experience motivated her to continue growing as a musician and inspired her to audition for HYS as a senior. She joined the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony for the first time and was placed in YSI. At school, Chloe also performs with the Symphony Orchestra at Moanalua High School.
Her time at MoHS and HYS strengthened her musicianship, discipline, and resilience. Rehearsing and performing alongside dedicated peers taught her that excellence requires commitment, teamwork, and humility. More importantly, she learned that music has the power to unite, inspire, and serve the community. Performing with HYS was not only an artistic milestone, but a formative experience that shaped her leadership and self-confidence.
After graduation, Chloe plans to attend the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa to major in civil engineering and audition for the UH Mānoa Orchestra. Whether through music or engineering, she hopes to build things that last and contribute meaningfully to the lives of others. She will carry forward the lessons and inspiration gained from HYS with a commitment to making a lasting difference.
Zachary Rooks
Youth Symphony II / Trumpet / Kalāheo High School
Since picking up the trumpet in sixth grade, Zachary has made music a defining part of his journey. Moving to Hawai‘i before his junior year opened new doors, leading him to the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony. While his time with HYS is brief, he is incredibly grateful for the mentorship and the exposure to challenging music that pushed his skills to the next level.
A soon-to-be graduate of Kalāheo High School, Zachary is a dedicated athlete who paddles for Kalāheo and runs track for both his high school and the Spartan Track Club Hawai‘i. Between his time on the water and the track, he has managed the art of balancing competitive athletics and musical rehearsals with his academic commitment as a member of the National Honor Society.
Following graduation, Zachary is headed to College Station, Texas to attend Texas A&M University. He plans to major in Engineering, applying the same discipline he practiced on the track and in the concert hall to his future career. Zachary is excited to continue his musical journey as a member of the Fightin' Texas Aggie Band, bringing his dedication and Aloha Spirit to the ranks of the Noble Men of Kyle.
Kolleen Roessig
Youth
Symphony II / Violin /
Homeschool
Kolleen picked up her first violin when she was ten years old. While moving every couple of years with her military family made finding an in-person teacher difficult, Kolleen has persevered in nurturing her love for music. From attending concerts at the Hollywood Bowl to performing with her two sisters at their church to eventually composing her own music, Kolleen’s life revolves around music. She plans on pursuing a degree in music composition this fall with the goal of composing musical scores for movies.
Throughout Kolleen’s three year journey through HYS and PMI, she has gained greater knowledge about her instrument, her music, and herself than she could have imagined. She is extremely grateful to all her conductors, her friends, and her teachers, in particular Sheryl Shohet, for expanding her musical artistry. Kolleen is eager to take the next step on her music journey and will definitely be marching to her own beat as the road ahead is full of potential.
Paisley Sagadraca
Youth Symphony II / Cello /
Mililani High School
When I first joined HYS, I joined because I really wanted to learn how to play an instrument. My elementary school did not offer music education beyond chorus and learning how to play the recorder. I started out in BSE, went all the way through the Academy Program and am ending my senior year in YSII. Through playing my instrument, I have developed valuable skills like teamwork, and self discipline. The thing I liked best about being a member of the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony was performing for students during our Listen & Learn school concerts.
Outside of HYS, I have spent my time participating in school-run extracurriculars, mostly clubs. I served as secretary of my school's Art Club and am the club's current vice president. I've also been a longtime member of the Japanese National Honors Society and Tri-M. As for the future, my current plans include attending the University of California, Davis to major in Biology while also keeping in touch with music.
Isabella Santos
Youth Symphony I / Cello / Roosevelt High School
After being inspired by a video she saw on YouTube, Isabella began her musical journey in third grade. Wanting to challenge herself and gain more experience as a musician, she joined the Hawai’i Youth Symphony, beginning in CO and working her way up to YSI. Throughout her time in HYS, Isabella learned discipline, perseverance, and that success comes from consistency.
Beyond HYS, Isabella serves as principal cellist of the Roosevelt Symphony Orchestra and is a dedicated member of the Roosevelt Cross Country and Track and Field teams. In recognition of her commitment and leadership, she has received the National School Orchestra Award and the Outstanding Orchestra Member Honor for her dedication and meaningful contributions to the success of her school orchestra program.
After graduating, Isabella plans to attend the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa while continuing to play the cello on the side. She is deeply grateful for her family, friends, and private teacher, Nancy Masaki, who supported her through her aspirations. She would like to give thanks to the Hawai’i Youth Symphony Program for giving her the opportunity to perform in a symphony orchestra alongside many talented students who are passionate about music.
Malina Sautter
Concert Orchestra / Oboe / Kalāheo High School
Hi! I’m Malina Sautter. This is my second year of HYS and what I like most about it is being able to connect with so many other student musicians. Everyone is so amazing and fun to work with and I’ve made so many new friends. The opportunity to be in HYS has also made me a better oboe player and overall musician as well as making those connections with others! I love to run and I work at a pizza shop as well as doing HYS and school band. My time in this program has helped me apply important listening skills and attention to detail into other aspects of my life. Thanks for a great two years!
Daniel Schoen
Youth Symphony II / Cello / Punahou School
People say that as you get older, you have to act your age. Well, they’ve clearly never been in Hawai‘i Youth Symphony. Whether it’s playing Frozen in front of ecstatic elementary schoolers or donning sunglasses during a Bruno Mars medley, I will cherish the many fun and silly memories I have made over the past three years in HYS. I love the energy that flows within the ensembles I’ve participated in, and that’s due in part to having such outgoing and dedicated conductors like Mr. Fanning, Mrs. Ochi-Onishi, Mr. Masaki, and Mr. Peña. Thank you all.
Additionally, through HYS I am glad to have met other enthusiastic and dynamic cello players. Y’all rock. Next, I want to give a huge thank you to my longtime cello teacher Mrs. Pauline Bai! Without her support and encouragement, I wouldn’t be the player I am today. Many thanks also to Mr. Craig Young, Dr. Jonas Carlson, Ms. Stefanie Lawton, and the Punahou Music School for seven fantastic years in Punahou orchestras. Mahalo to Mr. Steven Flanter for coaching early-morning quartet practices with Rylan, Brennin, Ethan, and I. And last but not least, thank you to my mom, dad, younger brother Benji, younger sister Laurel, dog Kiki, and my cousins for their love and support and for attending all of my concerts.
Max Shinno
Youth Symphony I / Violin / Punahou
School
Max began his time with HYS in third grade, when he joined the Concert String Orchestra. Almost immediately, the HYS experience introduced him to one of the greatest virtues of playing music: connecting with others. He’s loved meeting so many new people, many of whom have become his closest friends. Max has also enjoyed advancing through the HYS ensembles (CSO, Concert Orchestra, the COVID-era Symphony Strings, YSII, and YSI) with many of the musicians he met in his very first year in CSO. He is grateful to Mr. Uyehara, Ms. Watanabe, Mr. Fanning, Mr. Masaki, and Professor Stepec for their hard work shaping his journey and creating the best space to foster friendship and collaboration.
In addition to being a musician, he is also an Eagle Scout, competes in cybersecurity competitions, and works at Punahou’s student-run videojournalism program. He hopes to continue his musical endeavors while studying engineering in college. Max would like to thank his parents for starting him off on his musical journey, his older brother for being his musical inspiration and role model, and his private teacher for always knowing when he’s ready for the next challenge.
Sevastyan Swan
Youth Symphony I / Violin /
SHomeschool
evastyan Swan is a 17 year old homeschooled violinist. He has been taught by Sheryl Shohet since he was 3 years old. He has participated in the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony, National Youth Orchestra, and various chamber music ensembles. He is the concertmaster of Hawai‘i Youth Symphony I, and is looking forward to pursuing a Major in Music Performance at Grove City College.
Sevastyan was born and raised in Hawai‘i his entire life with his four siblings; three sisters and one brother. He enjoys competitive speech and debate, Moot Court, and basketball. He understands the value of music and how it leads to deeper connections as it speaks to many people. Sevastyan is very grateful for all the instruction he has received over the years and the support from his family, friends, and teacher.
Arabella Tan
Youth Symphony I / Harp / ‘Iolani School
Arabella began performing with HYS in 7th grade through the Pacific Music Institute, and has loved her time playing as a part of the orchestra ever since. From concerts for family and friends, to Listen and Learn Performances, to community concerts on neighbor islands, she has had an amazing time with all aspects of YSI. HYS has taught her how special the gift of music has the ability to be: her most memorable experience has been playing for younger students in the 2024 Listen and Learn concert and hearing the audience sing along to the orchestra's music.
Apart from YSI, Arabella is also a member of the Honolulu Harp Ensemble, and plays piano in her free time. When not playing music, she can be found doing street and nature photography, developing her film in the photo darkroom, working on research with the Owens lab at JABSOM, and baking various cookies to feed her friends.
Arabella plans to major in Biomedical Engineering in college, and hopes to continue on with her music journey there. She would like to thank her Mom, Dad, and grandparents, who have supported her throughout her time in music and beyond; her harp teacher, Mrs. Sharene Taba, who has made every part of her music journey possible; and her friends who have been with her through it all.
Rylan Terayama
Youth Symphony I / Violin / Punahou
School
Rylan Terayama started playing the violin in the Punahou orchestra program in the sixth grade and currently studies with Ms. Asia Doike. He is a member of the Punahou Chamber Music Program, the Punahou Symphony, and also works part time as part of the student worker team at the Punahou Music School. He joined the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony in his junior year. HYS has been a big inspiration for him, and has contributed enormously to his growth as a musician. Most recently, this experience motivated him to audition for the Punahou senior concerto, which he successfully qualified for, giving him the honor of showcasing his talents in a solo piece. Outside of music, he enjoys running with his Track team around the neighborhood, reading, and spending time with his friends. Rylan plans to pursue electrical engineering in college and will definitely continue to play the violin in future.
Eva Tramuto
Youth Symphony II / Horn / Pearl City High School
It was only two years ago that I first heard about HYS from my friend who was in it. She made it sound amazing to play and experience an atmosphere with kids from all the islands and a string section! And if that alone didn't make me salivate for a chance to play in their ensemble, surely listening to the live performance would! Soon, I auditioned my junior year and quickly became hooked to the program! Naturally, I joined this year too. I've made some friends along the way and I'm sad to say bye to the underclassmen. But alas, I've spent too long in school so I bid my farewell.
I'm planning on studying architecture at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, where I will try marching band in college, as well as pep band, concert band and orchestra. I've had a great time in my two years in HYS, and I look forward to continuing music and meeting new people.
Trinity Vong
Youth Symphony II / Percussion / Hawai‘i Baptist Academy
Hi everyone! My name is Trinity and I’ve been a part of HYS since my sophomore year of high school. I was new to symphony and started off in CO for my first two years. I am very grateful to Mr. Fanning for making my experience an awesome one! I am in YSII this year and am very grateful for the chance to meet new people and new conductors! I’ve learned how to challenge myself and learn from my section. Also, shoutout to Nanami and Mia for sticking with me through all three years of my HYS experience! My favorite part of HYS has been playing for elementary kids during Listen & Learn concerts! It’s always super fun and an enjoyable time. A little bit about me, I enjoy anything outdoors with my friends and family. Whether it be hiking, the beach, snowboarding, or traveling, my happy place is spending time in nature with people I love. Thank you to my family for loving me for 17 years and pushing me to work hard. Also thank you to my friends and Jesus for being my support team. Love you all!
Lulu Wang
Youth Symphony I / Viola / Punahou School
Ientered HYS as a newly turned eight-year-old who hated waking up early for Sunday rehearsals, but I leave nine years later as someone who can’t stop talking about how incredible HYS is and how deeply it has shaped the person I’ve become. Over time, HYS became a second family that taught me discipline, leadership, and a genuine love for music. Some of my closest friends in YSI today are people who were actually in the same CSO orchestra with me years ago, even though we didn’t know each other at the time. Looking back now, it’s amazing to realize that we were growing up alongside each other in the program all along and eventually ended up together again in YSI.
Outside of HYS, I have played in the Punahou Symphony Orchestra, Moanalua Symphony Orchestra, and the University of Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra (UHSO). I was also a member of the Punahou Chamber Music Program and YSI quartet program. I am especially grateful to Mrs. Doike, my first orchestra teacher and private teacher, who influenced my growth as a violist more than anyone else and pushed me to be my best in every aspect of life. I would also like to thank Mr. Masaki for showing me that orchestra can actually be fun.
YiJia Wang
Youth Symphony II / Violin / Kalani High School
Ihave been a member of Hawai‘i Youth Symphony since the 11th grade, where I was a violinist in CO and YSII. Being in HYS has been an incredibly rewarding part of my musical journey. I started learning the violin in sixth grade, but I never had the opportunity to take private lessons. Joining HYS gave me the chance to develop my violin skills and musicianship beyond school. It is through HYS that I’ve seen firsthand how music can bring people together and create meaningful connections.
What I love most about being in HYS is the sense of community it creates, whether in music or in genuine companionship. Through rehearsals and performances, I have created many special memories with my peers, all while dedicating ourselves to the music we make. HYS has also taught me important life lessons, including discipline, teamwork, and perseverance, which I know will guide me in future endeavors.
Outside of HYS, I'm a violinist in my high school's orchestra. I am also an active member of my school's HOSA organization. After high school, I will be pursuing pre-medicine in college, while keeping the violin and music by my side.
Jessica-Holly Wiemer
Youth Symphony I / Flute / Kalani High School
Ijoined HYS in my freshman year, starting out in CO before going into YSI in my sophomore year. When I started playing the flute in the sixth grade, I struggled a lot in the beginning and there were many times where I wanted to quit. But there was always something that made me keep going and I’m extremely glad I never let myself quit. Since then, I’ve been in my school’s marching band, wind ensemble, ODBA select band, and of course, HYS.
Being in HYS has been a great experience for me, challenging me as a musician and giving me opportunities I wouldn’t have otherwise. I’ve also been able to connect with people who share my same passion for music. Music has become a huge part of my life and the experiences it has given me has helped me grow so much as a person.
I plan on attending the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa for college, majoring in music education. I hope I can help others find an appreciation for music, and that it can impact others like how it has for me.
Nicholas Xu
Youth Symphony I / Horn / Kalani
High School
Hey everyone, this is Nicholas Xu. I’m a student at Kalani High School who first joined Hawai‘i Youth Symphony in August 2022. Since then, I’ve grown as a person — quite literally, too. The many moments and memories I’ve shared with the group have made it feel like a second home. From group “crash outs” playing Brawl Stars before concerts in YSII, to Maestro Stepec’s unhinged comedy and rehearsal lock-ins in YSI, I’ve always felt like I belonged. It feels like a family — something familiar and constant.
Similarly, I’ve found another family through athletics as a member of Kamehameha Swim Club. Funnily enough, I’ve spent nearly the same number of years with Kamehameha Swim Club as I have with Hawai‘i Youth Symphony. In both families, I’ve grown not only as an athlete and musician, but as a person. Through these communities, I’ve learned to understand my limits, practice discipline, build confidence, and most importantly, become a team player. Within these teams, I’ve gained an identity that truly makes me... me. I don’t just play a role in my teams — those roles have helped shape who I am.
Yoshiki “Justin” Yamada
Youth Symphony II / Clarinet / ‘Iolani
School
Justin has been playing the clarinet for five years and first started playing in HYS as a member of Concert Orchestra and am now ending my time with HYS in Youth Symphony II. Besides the clarinet, I also play the guitar and a little bit of piano. I participate in my school’s judo team and will be going to the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa.
Christopher Yara
Youth Symphony I / Trumpet / Kailua High School
Ihave been in HYS for four years and it has been the best music experience of my life. It gave me so many opportunities to play next to some amazing players and I learned so much. I started as last chair in YSII and finally made my way to principal chair in YSI which was a personal goal I had set for myself. The best part of playing in HYS was all the cool songs I got to play. I remember the first time I heard the symphony warm up I was in shock. I am so glad I was a part of the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony. After high school I plan to attend Universal Technical Institute to study and become an aircraft mechanic.
Qinglin "Charles" Ye
Youth Symphony II / Flute / Punahou School
Ibegan playing the flute in sixth grade and was immediately drawn to its expressiveness. Over the years, music has taught me discipline, patience, and the importance of listening closely. I’ve had the honor of playing in the O‘ahu Band Directors Association Select Band and performing with Hawai‘i Youth Symphony. Orchestra challenges me to contribute to something greater than myself.
Beyond music, I’m passionate about academics and service. I was honored to be named a National Merit Finalist, and I help lead Punahou's Public Forum Debate Team and Mock Trial Team, where I’ve learned to think critically and collaborate under pressure. I also teach Chinese to elementary students, designing lessons and working to make language learning engaging and accessible. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, traveling, reading, and watching films — my favorite is Paris, Texas.
Ichiro Yeh
Youth Symphony II / Violin / ‘Iolani School
Over the years, music has quietly guided my growth and the connections I have formed with others. Since I began playing my instrument, it has been both a discipline and a creative outlet, carrying me through years of orchestra before leading me to my senior year with Hawai‘i Youth Symphony II. I first picked up the violin in third grade, drawn to its voice and its ability to convey feelings words cannot. Since then, I have had the privilege of studying with Mrs. Mariko Yuen and performing in ‘Iolani School’s Orchestra 5.
The fact that this was my first and last year in HYS does not at all undermine the inspiration and memories I will carry forward. Though my time in HYS was brief, it challenged me to refine my skills, perform with dedication, and embrace the collaborative spirit of music, leaving me with experiences I will always cherish.
Playing the violin has not only helped me grow as a musician but has also connected me to incredible people. Through orchestra rehearsals, concerts, and events, I have formed lasting friendships and discovered how music has laced my life with connections I will always treasure.
After graduation, I plan to continue pursuing orchestra, keeping the joy, growth, and connections music has given me at the heart of my journey.
Eileen Zhang
Youth Symphony I / Violin / Roosevelt High School
From eight years old, I have grown up playing the violin. After moving to O‘ahu from the mainland in middle school and having experienced playing in a youth orchestra, I was recommended to join the Hawai'i YouthSymphony. I auditioned for and was accepted into Hawai’i Youth Symphony during eighth grade. Throughout my five years playing for HYS, I have played in SOE, YSII, and currently, YSI. Hearing all the instruments of a symphonic orchestra play together to create a powerful, emotional masterpiece and sharing it with others inspires me to continue my orchestral journey after high school. From my experiences in HYS, I have learned that through diligence, dedication, and passion, I can overcome any obstacle and reach my goals. Beyond playing the violin, I participate in student council, swimming, water polo, and community volunteering. After I graduate, I plan to earn a Bachelor of Science in biology with a pre-med focus and continue playing the violin in an orchestra. I would like to thank my family for driving me to every rehearsal and concert, Mr. Stepec, and my fellow classmates, who have been part of my unforgettable experience at HYS!
HYS Administration & Staff
Randy Wong President & CEO
Hawai‘i-born and raised, Randy Wong is a distinctive voice within the arts administration and the musical communities, and one of few Asian American executive directors among hundreds of orchestras nationwide. He is also a member and thought influencer of the Forbes Nonprofit Council, sharing insights on nonprofit leadership, fundraising, arts education, and youth development.
As the President & CEO of Hawai‘i Youth Symphony (and a proud alumnus), Randy passionately champions its strategic vision of a Hawai‘i where Music Is A Right. This vision was recognized in 2023 by the international business magazine Fast Company in its list of Best Workplaces for Innovators, and was given top honors in the category of Social Good. Together, Randy and HYS have garnered numerous accolades and honors for executive nonprofit leadership, public relations, marketing, communications, television, and more.
Simultaneous to leading HYS, Randy is also a bassist in the Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra. Outside of classical music, he champions ‘marginalized’ music, in genres such as Exotica and Open Flow Jazz. His best known side project (which he co-founded with fellow HYS alumnus Abe Lagrimas Jr.) is The WAITIKI 7, an Exotica septet that has been profiled by the LA Times, Boston Globe, NPR Morning Edition, Global Village, Mother Jones, Giant Robot, The Feast (NBC); has performed with orchestras, in Berlin at the Haus der Kulturen der Welt, and at Halekulani’s House Without A Key. His other side project—the free jazz trio Red Nova—was featured in the Odesa (Ukraine) Jazz Festival, and was nominated for a Nā Hōkū Hanohano award for its debut album Presence of Mind.
In his free time, Randy gives back, serving as Vice Chair for the League of American Orchestras’ Youth Orchestra Division, volunteering as a mentor for first-generation college students in ‘A‘ali‘i Mentoring, and co-chairing the State Foundation on Culture & the Arts’ ARTS FIRST Committee on Advocacy.
Randy is also an alumnus of leadership cohorts at the League of American Orchestras, the Stanford Graduate School of Business, and the American Express Leadership Academy.
Prior to HYS, Randy was program director & information architect for the Music-in-Education National Consortium, and faculty & staff at New England Conservatory. He holds an Ed.M (Arts in Education) from Harvard University, a performance degree (with honors, and a Concentration in Music-in-Education) from New England Conservatory, and is one of just a handful of Certified Fund-Raising Executives in the state of Hawai‘i.
Rachel Schultz Chief Operating Officer
Rachel Schultz brings over a decade of dedicated leadership in music education and community engagement to Hawai‘i Youth Symphony. She joined HYS in July 2025 as its Chief Operating Officer; a newly created role in which she oversees the areas of operational leadership and administration, human resources and staffing, and financial management.
A highly organized professional with a strong work ethic, Rachel blends experience from both the arts/non-profit and commercial/for-profit sectors. Rachel moved to Toledo as a founding member of the Toledo Symphony School of Music (TSSM) in September 2009. From 2010 to 2024, she served in various capacities: piano faculty member, TSSM Director, Director of Education and Community Engagement for the Toledo Symphony, and eventually, as Vice President of Education and Community Engagement for the Toledo Alliance for the Performing Arts (TAPA).
A self-motivated leader, Rachel is skilled in identifying and implementing program improvements while streamlining processes. In fall 2018, she was one of 12 orchestra professionals chosen to participate in the Emerging Leaders Program of the League of American Orchestras. During this time, she also played a role in the merger negotiations between the Toledo Symphony and Toledo Ballet, resulting in the formation of TAPA.
As the head of TAPA’s education initiatives, Rachel oversaw education, engagement, and outreach programs for the Toledo Symphony, Toledo Ballet, TSSM, and Toledo Symphony Youth Orchestras. Programs of pride include the innovative Noisy Library Program, Plastic Band Project, Introduction to the Orchestra: A STEAM Experience for Head Start students, work within the Juvenile Court system, and TAPA in the Parks, the first community engagement program of TAPA to feature both music and dance components.
Prior to her time in Toledo, Rachel was a faculty member at the Cleveland Institute of Music, Bowling Green State University, the Preucil School of Music in Iowa City, and the Music Settlement in Cleveland, Ohio, where she served as interim director of the Suzuki Program. Rachel holds a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance and Dalcroze Eurhythmics, a Master of Music, and a Professional Studies Certificate in Collaborative Piano, all from the Cleveland Institute of Music. She has also received extensive training in the Suzuki approach to music education.
Rachel’s drive for change and innovation has strengthened organizational stability and enhanced community impact throughout her career.
Hannah Watanabe Programs Director
Hannah Watanabe works for the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony as Programs Director. She served as the conductor for HYS’s Concert Orchestra from 2006–2023 and conducted the Beginning & Intermediate String Ensembles for the Academy Program from 2024–2025. She is a graduate of the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, where she earned a Bachelor of Education degree in K–12 Music Education with an emphasis in Secondary Instrumental Music. Hannah is an alumnus of the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony where she performed under the direction of Mr. Michael Nakasone and Mr. Henry Miyamura. Prior to working at HYS, she taught orchestra for 16 years at Moanalua Middle School. While at Moanalua Middle School, she took the orchestra on several trips including Boston to work with musicians from the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Disney World where the orchestra won Best in Class, the Gold Award, and received a superior rating twice at Festival Disney, to Disneyland to perform and participate in the Disney Workshop, and to the neighbor islands where her students performed and taught elementary school students about music and the instruments in an orchestra. Hannah taught K-6 general music and choir at Hawai‘i Baptist Academy, orchestra, piano, Algebra and music theory at Moanalua High School, and while still in college, taught orchestra at Kalani High School part time. Hannah is a member of the National Association for Music Education (NAfME), Hawai‘i Music Educators Association (HMEA), American String Teachers Association (ASTA), and the Hawai‘i Chapter of the American String Teachers Association (HASTA) where she serves as Webmaster on the board.
Lauren Sergent Operations Manager
Lauren Sergent holds dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in Marketing and Public Relations with a Minor in Music from Carthage College. She brings extensive experience in marketing communications, event planning, and community engagement from her work with several nonprofit organizations, including Drum Corps International.
Lauren began her musical journey as a percussionist in 5th grade band and credits access to music education for many of her best memories, closest friends, and lifelong commitment to supporting youth in music. Over the years, she has performed in a wide range of ensembles—from orchestras and drumlines to vocal jazz ensembles and a cappella groups—and toured throughout the U.S., Japan, Italy, Hungary, and Slovenia. Today, she channels her passion for music and organization into her role at HYS, where she supports programs behind the scenes through event coordination, volunteer engagement, and other logistics. She also remains an active performer, singing with the O‘ahu Choral Society’s Symphonic and Chamber Choirs, where she also serves on the Board of Directors. Outside of work, Lauren enjoys tackling DIY projects, exploring new food spots, spending time with her dog, and supporting live music.
Wailani Kontic Philanthropy & Outreach Manager
Wailani Kontic holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from Webster University, along with certificates in Spanish Translation and Spanish Language & Literature from the University of Oviedo in Spain. She brings a strong background in nonprofit communications, fundraising, and community engagement, with previous roles at organizations including Honolulu Habitat for Humanity and Opera Theatre of St. Louis.
Wailani has led marketing campaigns, developed donor strategies, and coordinated volunteer initiatives, and she is experienced in grant writing, event planning, and multi-platform content creation.
A lifelong musician, she studied clarinet performance at the University of Missouri–Kansas City Conservatory and is an alumna of the St. Louis Symphony Youth Orchestra. She also plays tenor and baritone saxophone and has remained active in musical ensembles and arts organizations throughout her career.
Outside of work, Wailani enjoys traveling, hiking, and exploring local coffee and food spots wherever she goes.
Brent Ramos Office Receptionist
Brent Ramos is a graduate from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music where he received a Bachelor’s Degree in Violin Performance. He is an HYS alumni who started in the Academy Strings Program, and in his senior year of high school was concertmaster of Youth Symphony I. After graduating from high school and while in college, Brent was a Teacher’s Assistant for the Moanalua Middle School Summer Orchestra Program for many years. He was the HYS Academy Strings Program Coordinator from 2021–2025, and started working as the HYS Office Receptionist in 2022. Besides his roles at HYS, Brent is a violinist with the Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra, teaches private lessons at the Masaki School of Music, and volunteers his time to help out as a violin coach at several local schools.
Mckenzee Espiritu Librarian
Mckenzee Espiritu is a graduate of James B. Castle High School and is currently pursuing a degree in Music Education at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa. An HYS alumna, she began as a sophomore in the Youth Symphony II French Horn section and advanced to Youth Symphony I as a senior. Throughout her musical journey, Mckenzee has had the opportunity to represent Hawai‘i on national and international stages, including marching in California’s Pasadena Rose Bowl Parade, performing at the Chicago Midwest Clinic with Nāulu Winds of UH West O‘ahu, and appearing at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland.
In addition to her studies and rehearsals at UH, Mckenzee is dedicated to music education in her community. She has volunteered as marching band staff for several high schools on O‘ahu and has worked as a music instructor at King Intermediate School.
Mahalo to Our Donors
Hawai‘i Youth Symphony deeply appreciates these contributions made between January 1, 2025 and February 28, 2026. Thank you for helping us to work towards a Hawaiʻi where music is a right! We apologize if we’ve made any accidental errors or omissions; please let us know by emailing our development team: development@hiyouthsymphony.org.
CONDUCTORS CIRCLE
$50,000 and above
City & County of Honolulu
Glenn D. Fernandez Trust
Maurice and Joanna Sullivan
Family Foundation
PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE
$10,000 to $49,999
Aaron David Mahi ‘70 Trust
The Arthur and Mae Z. Orvis Foundation
Action Realty Corporation
Altres, Inc.
Cades Foundation
Charles & Mitch Ota Foundation of the HCF
Erica & Aaron Mau-Schank
First Hawaiian Bank Foundation
George Mason Fund of the HCF
Hawai‘i Community Foundation
Honolulu Chamber Music Series
Island Insurance Companies
John R. Halligan Charitable Fund
Karl & Alice Blade
Kent & Jean Tsukamoto
Kosasa Foundation
Lauren Yoo
Louise and Y. T. Lum Foundation
McInerny Foundation
Richard & Susan Ing Robert E. Black Fund of the HCF
Serendipity II Fund of the HCF
Stephen & Gloria J. Gainsley
The Al Sherman Foundation
Thomas & Mi Kosasa
ANGEL
$5,000 to 9,999
Alison Lihalakha
Anonymous
Ben and Vicky Cayetano
Blue Note Hawaii
Brushfire Records, Inc.
Cathy Monseur
Christine Camp & Avalon Group, LLC
Deborah Hashimura
Foundation for an Engaged Pacific
Jillson Fleener & Pearl Ling
Johnson Ohana Foundation
Ho‘ea – the Foundation
Lorrin Hirano
Martin & Danna Hsia
National Orchestral Institute + Festival
Pacific Property Group, Inc.
Randy Wong & Helen Liu
Schwab Charitable Fund
Steven & Marilyn Katzman
The Dods Foundation
The Resort Group
Dr. Vivien Tham & Pacific Vision Institute of HI
BENEFACTOR
$2,500 to $4,999
Anonymous
April Terayama
Collin Hoo
David & Nicole Imanaka
Foodland Super Market, Ltd.
Ginny Tiu
GuavaGar Westfall Charitable Fund of the HCF
James & Helen Gary Charitable Fund of the HCF
Jonathan Y. C. Ching Revocable Trust
Robin Kobayashi & Kenneth Fink
Kristen Bronner
Leighton Taylor
LPL Financial
Lung Rose Voss & Wagnild
Malcolm S. & Carol Koga
Michael & Amy Onofrietti
Michael J. Y. & Terrina Wong
‘Ohina Labs
Paul White
The William Gemmer Foundation Fund at HCF
PATRON
$1,000 to $2,499
Anonymous
Aloha United Way
Anthony Carr
Bob Hayashi
Bradford W. Lee
Carlton & Elsie Gushiken
Chelsea Maeda
Chris & Jadine Nielsen
Cory Beall
Dale K. Bordner
Foodland Give Aloha
Franklin K. Yanamura
HDG, Inc.
Ivan Tamanaha
Jan M. Tamura
John Noland
Jose L. Romero Memorial Fund at HCF
Kobayashi, Sugita & Goda LLP
M. Wong & C. Yee
Masaki School of Music
Meagan M. Yoshimoto-Clark & Adam Clark, the Ebbtide Family Fund
Monica & Stephen Chan
Myrna Kuo
Randolph G. Moore & Lynne
Johnson
Richard Malins
Ritchie & Sunny Mudd
Robert H Armstrong
Roselle Chin
Ruthann Yamanaka
Sadie Kim
Scott B. Gomes
Sharen R. Himeno & Warren Price
Steven & Izumi Rhee
Stephen & Rosemarie Love
Takumi Family Fund
Tayler Y. & Renee Mori
Terrence White
Wade Nobuhara & Cecile
Sebastian
Watumull Stores/Jhamandas
Watumull Fund
Wayne Fanning
Wilfred Miyasaki
Worldster & Patricia Lee
Yoon Jee Kim
SPONSOR
$500 to $999
Anonymous
Alexander Ishii
Ann Chang
Ann K. Yoklavich
Autumn Woods & Barney Brennan
Ben Gutierrez & Chris Korsak
Beth Tamayose
Bill Holowecki
Brandi Falcon
Craig Watanabe
DAFgiving360
Daniel & Linda Momohara
David & Amy Monk
David Landis & Sean Dowdall
George I. Nagao
Gloria K Ching
Grant Ito
Hannah Watanabe
Helen K. Higa
Jaewon Choi
Jake Shimabukuro
James Lin
Jean McIntosh
Justin V. Redona
Karen Dempsey
Karen Takemoto
Lauren Chun
Mark Verrey
Nathan Momohara
Patti Look
Ratana Puapong
Kim Coco Iwamoto
Rachel Schultz
Robert Littman
Robert Murphy
Ross Tanoue
Sandra Higuchi
Seitoku Takahashi
Sharelle Ito
Su-Jie (Nam) Hong
Suman Kaza
Susanna Cheng
Walter & Marguerite Nobuhara
Wayne Higuchi
Wayne Katayama
Yi-Chuan Ching
PARTNER
$250 to $499
Anonymous
Allen Murabayashi
Andrei Kotchetov
Arthur Furukawa
Big Island Candies
Carol Aki
Carolann Biederman and Seth Markow
Carolyn Hong
Darcy Nishimura
David & Annette Jackson
Dean K. & Sharene Taba
Emi Kurihara
Eric Chen
Fidelity Charitable
Gary Yap
George Goto
George Wellington, Jr.
Jay Young and Dory Kim Young
Jerrod & Rachel Melander
Joe Stepec
Kahala Senior Living Community, Inc.
Kent Koike
Kiyoko Nitz
Larry T. Takumi
Laurel Johnston
Lisa Wong
Lori Hammer
Lynne Morikawa
Matthew Kugiya
Mark Arimoto
Melvin K. Wong
Miyeko S. Hashimoto
Myrna Cundy
Nick Morabito
Nina Thai
Pamela Yee
Randall Hee
Robert G. & Patricia C. Peters
Robyn Weber
Rochelle Uchibori
Richard & Rose Shimabukuro
Roy Esaki
Selena & Christopher Ching
Shigeki Yamane
Taylor L. York
Tilden Osako
Vicki Rose
Wayne Kawamura
Wendy Suetsugu
William E. Seehafer
CONTRIBUTOR
$100 to $249
Anonymous
Aaron Wu & Hong Wang
Alan & Michele Higa
Alison Lum
Allison HirakamiAlyssa Kawamura
Amy H. Mitsuda
Amy Iwano
Amy Young
Andrew Akemoto
Ann Castelfranco & David Ross
April K.Y. Leong
Audrey Kubo
Audrey & David Okaneku
Ayako Iwata
Beverly Hamada
Brian & Tammy Walther
Bruce & Kelly Shimabukuro
Bryan and Cathy Sakai
Byron Kelly
Calvin K. Lee
Carl & Jan Matsuura
Carolyn Ing
Carolyn Inoue
Challa Chi
Charities Aid Foundation America (Cybergrants)
Charity on Top Foundation, Inc.
Cheryl Kojima
Chester Kaneshiro
Christine Imoto
Christina Wong
Clayton Pang
Cristin Gallagher
Dale Nishikawa
Darren Sueoka
David Masunaga
Dennis Higashiguchi
Earl & Carol Yasui
Eben W. Chun
Edward Masunaga
Elaine Chang
Elise von Dohlen
Emerald Lai
Ethel C. Iwasaki
Frank J. Hook
Frederick Harris
Friends of the Library of Hawaii
Gail Nakamura
Gareth & Michele Kaneshiro
Geoff & Luann Wiggins
George Hudes
George Masaki
Georgia Wong
Gladys & Denise Yamanoha
Glenn M. Nakao
Glenn Toma
Gregory Wong
Guy Ikehara
Hayden L. Hawkins
Huyen Truong
Jai Keep-Barnes
James Kawashima
Jann M. Fujimoto
Jason & Sheila Swanson
Jean Shimabukuro
Jeffrey Boeckman
Jeffrey Lim
Jill Shimabukuro
JoAnn & Alvin Suematsu
Joanne Huber
Jodi Goh
John & Susan Soong
Kaori & Jun Kobayashi
Kay J. Newnam
Keith & Sandy Muraoka
Kenneth Jim
Kim Taira
Kirk Shitaoka
Lance Oba
Laura & Van M. Goto
Lauren Inouye
Laureen & Alfred Wong
Leona Kamoku
Letitia Uyehara
Lian Mito
Linda Hattemer
Lois Lloyd
Louise Ing & Michael Stitch
Lucky Tree Fund
Lynette Roster
Lynne Nakaura
Mark Nakamura
Marie Tai
Martha Child
Mary Ann Kobayashi
Merwyn & Sharon Lee
Micah Ewing
Masahiko & Chikako Kobayashi
Maureen Yamasaki
Michele & Erin Ikeda
Mioko Chang
Myrtle Kaneshiro
Najean Lee
Nancy D. White
Nancy K. Sonoda
Nick & Nicole Crawford
Niki Shishido
Nina Smith
Noel Okimoto
Patricia Takemoto
Paul & Kristi Komeiji
Rachel Schultz
Ralph K. Oshiro
Robert & Linda Weiner
Robert & Mary Schornstheimer
Robin L. Hollison
Robyn Fong
Roslyn Meinert
Ruth Komatsu
Ryan Lee
Sandy Chen
Sara Amick-Van Horn
Sarah Miyahira
Selene Patterson
Shannon Igarta
Sheryl Shohet
Stella Anderson
Stephanie Laws
Steven & Lee Fujita
Suellen Barton
Tamae Shiraishi
Target Foundation
Tory & Valerie Shimabukuro
The Blackbaud Giving Fund
Van M. Goto
Velma Lee
Vern Miyagi
Warren Chew
Wilene Lum
William T. & Gayle Oshima
FRIEND
(Up to $99)
Anonymous
Abby Goldy
Aileen Gushiken
Akari Hatanaka
Akemi & Misao Kurokawa
Andrew Fowers
Andrew V. Bates
Ann Doike
Anne Lee
Bert & Eleanor Yamaguchi
Carolyn Berry
Clifford Char
Colin Kim
Colin & Keiko Sewake
Crowdstake Foundation
Cyrinthia Richards
Dan Miyamoto
Daniel Wilson
Dena P. Brennan
Dezarae Miyahira
Diane Bartosik
Donald R. & Carol S. Heape
Doris S. Oshiro
Elaine Yamanoha
Eric Chang
Eric & Chiemi Yamanoha
Gail Taylor
Gerald Young
Gisela Ricardi King
Glenn Shimabukuro
Glenn Ueda
Glenn & Violet Yamanouchi
Gordon Sato
Gordon T. Yang
Grace & Kyler Kwock
Isaac Tejada
Janelle Perreira
Janice Shintani
Jeremy Lawi
Jerry Ono
John & Camille Devlin
Judith A. Mick
Julia Fujioka
Julie Okamura
Julie Yeaman
Karen Gushi
Karen Lagrimas
Kathryn Spadaro
Kazutoshi & Iris Hino
Kenneth H. Burtness
Kimi Ide-Foster
Lauren Sergent
Lesley Shibata
Lily Chu
Lisa Tasaka
Lloyd Lim
Lynne Sueoka
Madeleine Powell
Marilyn Kobata
Michelle Funai
Nadine Mask
Nicole Nakamura
Nicole Ward
Noah Kephart
Pamela Young
Patti Evans
Patti L. Horio Evans
Paul S. Taniguchi
Petula Shimabukuro
Philip & Evelyn Brown
Rachael Blake
E. Richard & Diane Bartosik
Rina Chung
Ruby Arii
Shentang Wang
Stacey Sergent
Stanley Ching & Jocelyn Nakashima
Stanley & Rita Tanaka
Stanley K. & Wanette Y. Tanaka
Susan Imai
Tammi Okamura
Todd & Norine Sakuda
Thalia Woodward
Wailani & Denis Kontic
Wayne Morikawa
Wendy E. Uyeda
Werylend Tomczyk
Wilfred Higashi
Tributes
In Honor of Ashley MuraokaMamaclay by Keith & Sandy
Muraoka
In Honor of Burton Ueda by Glenn Ueda
In Honor of Camden Funai
by Colin Sewake
In Honor of Darci, Jeannette, and Nathaniel Watanabe by Craig Watanabe
In Honor of Hannah Liu Rosales by Randy Wong & Helen Liu
In Honor of Ignace Jang by Karl & Alice Blade
In Honor of Jake Shimabukuro by Karl & Alice Blade by Ginny Tiu
In Honor of Kahler Suzuki by Christine Imoto
In Honor of Karolyn Kaneshiro by Selene Patterson
In Honor of Lauren Dods by The Dods Foundation
In Honor of Matthew K. Meinert by Roslyn Meinert
In Honor of Michael Wong by Phyllis Wong
In Honor of Paul Takemoto
by Karen Takemoto
In Honor of Sarah M. Wilson by Daniel Wilson
In Honor of Randy Wong by M. Wong & C. Yee
In Honor of Rochell Uchibori
by Patricia Takemoto
In Honor of the Class of 2025 by Randy Wong & Helen Liu
In Honor of the Class of 2026 by Randy Wong & Helen Liu
In Memory of Bernardo Namnama by Vanguard Charitable
In Memory of Geoffrey Au
by Kendrick Y. Au
In Memory of George Berry by Carolyn Berry
In Memory of Gladys Hirano by M. Wong & C. Yee
In Memory of Joseph Rothstein
by Ann Yoklavich
In Memory of Karen Stockton
by Alan Stockton
In Memory of Karl W.R. Johnson by Kay J. Newman
In Memory of Maestro Henry Miyamura
by Erica Mau-Schank by George Goto by Ratana Puapong by Randy Wong & Helen Liu
In Memory of Mildred A. Yee by C. Yee
In Memory of Richard Cundy by Myrna Cundy
In Memory of Steven Evans by Patti L. Horio Evans
In Memory of Steven H. Shimabukuro by Akemi & Misao Kurokawa by Alan & Michele Higa by Amy Young by Audrey Kubo
by Audrey & David Okaneku
by Bruce & Kelly Shimabukuro
by Bryan & Cathy Sakai by Bert & Eleanor Yamaguchi by Clayton Pang by Colin Kim
by David & Annette Jackson by David Masunaga by Eben W. Chun by Elaine Yamanoha by Eric & Chiemi Yamanoha
by Franklin K. Yanamura
by Gail Nakamura by Gareth & Michele Kaneshiro by Gladys & Denise Yamanoha
by Glenn M. Nakao
by Glenn Shimabukuro by Glenn & Violet Yamanouchi by Gordon Sato
by Guy Ikehara by Janice Shintani
by Jean Shimabukuro
by Jill Shimabukuro by JoAnn & Alvin Suematsu by Karen Gushi by Kaori & Jun Kobayashi
by Kazutoshi & Iris Hino by Kobayashi, Sugita & Goda LLP by Letitia Uyehara
by Lynne Morikawa
by Lynn Nakaura
by Maureen Yamasaki
by Michele & Erin Ikeda
by Nick & Nicole Crawford
by Niki Shishido by Paul S. Taniguchi by Randy Wong & Helen Liu
by Richard & Rose Shimabukuro by Robin L. Hollison by Sheryl Shohet by Stanley Ching & Jocelyn
Nakashima
by Stanley & Rita Tanaka by Stanley K. & Wanette Y.
Tanaka by Steven & Lee Fujita
by Tory Shimabukuro by Vern Miyagi
by Wayne Morikawa by Wilfred Higashi
Celebrating our 61st season!
