Class of 2025 Xelhuan Anderson-Martinez Youth Symphony II / Violin / Le Jardin Academy
H
i, my name is Xelhuan and I’ve been playing the violin with HYS from the Intermediate String Ensemble in the Academy Program. One of the most enjoyable parts of playing for HYS throughout the years is being able to play the instrument that I love with many other people that enjoy playing music. Seeing all the work that all of us put into rehearsals and witnessing the output in the form of the winter and spring concerts is a truly auspicious spectacle. Having played as part of this amazing organization has helped me develop a plethora of lifelong skills and lessons that I will take with me as I move forward in my life’s journey. I am truly grateful for all of the things this organization has done for me.
e Dylan Kalā Campuspos
Youth Symphony I / Cello / ‘Iolani School
K
alā started his HYS journey in 10th grade after receiving encouraging support from his private teacher and friends. He really appreciated the pacing and dedication from all of the students and staff in HYS in putting together complete and well-rounded concerts each semester. Throughout Kalā's 11th and 12th grade years, YSI has affirmed to him that hard work and dedication leads to greater things, and showed that music really is a gift that is meant to be shared. His favorite parts are the service concerts and trips that YSI puts on each year. In addition to being a member of YSI, Kalā also plays the upright bass and guitar for the ‘Iolani Hawaiian Ensemble, and continues his orchestral skills in ‘Iolani's Symphonic Orchestra 5, where he plays cello and timpani/percussion. While not playing music, Kalā paddles for school and for club, and partook in water polo in previous years. Kalā plans on attending Pitzer College in Claremont, California where he plans to major in Environmental Sciences, continuing to study music on the side when able. Kalā would like to thank his Mom and Dad, grandparents, and family who continued to support his music journey throughout school and also in HYS, as it wouldn't have been possible without them.
Hawaii Youth Symphony
CLASS OF 2025 | 27