Top

He Makana O Nā Mele: The Gift Of Music

An Evening of World-Class Music and Fine Dining

Supporting Our Vision of a Hawaiʻi where Music Is A Right

Sunset Soirée with Youth Symphony I

Halekulani Garden Courtyard

Enjoy timeless cocktail music classics performed by Youth Symphony I (YSI), Hawai‘i’s premier youth orchestra, led by Maestro Joseph Stepec and featuring over 80 of the state’s top high school musicians.

Indulge in exquisite hors d’oeuvres from Halekulani’s award-winning culinary team, paired with masterfully crafted cocktails/mocktails honoring our 62nd Season!

GALA PERFORMANCE

Gala Dinner & Show!

Halekulani Ballroom

Guests will savor a delectable three-course meal crafted by Executive Chef Shaden Sato. We are honored to present an encore performance by special guest Maggie Herron, winner of the 2026 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award for Jazz Album of the Year, with a chamber ensemble featuring Youth Symphony I strings and Jazz I students for a truly special collaboration. Don’t miss this exceptional celebration of music, culture, and community.

SPECIAL GUEST

MAGGIE HERRON

Maggie Herron is an award-winning vocalist, pianist, and songwriter whose albums have earned multiple Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards for Jazz Album of the Year, most recently for My Story In Song (2024). Known for her sultry voice and masterful piano style, she has collaborated with renowned musicians including Mark Kibble, Bill Cunliffe, Bob Sheppard, and Larry Goldings. Originally from Michigan, Maggie’s early classical training evolved into a rich career spanning jazz, pop, and original compositions, with performances alongside legends such as Dave Brubeck and Taj Mahal. Based in Hawaii since 1976, she continues to captivate audiences weekly at Lewers Lounge in Waikiki.

HYS STUDENT PERFORMERS

Youth Symphony I

Composed of 86 high school students from more than a dozen schools, Youth Symphony I (YSI) is HYS’ most advanced orchestra, and among the finest youth orchestras in the country. Maestro Joe Stepec, HYS Director of Orchestral Activities and conductor of YS I, will lead this magnificent group.

We regret that we are unable to fit the entire orchestra in the ballroom due to space limitations.

Jazz I

Drawing from diverse musical influences, Jazz Iprovides unique, improvisation-based experiences for students who wish to discover the worlds of popular and improvised genres. HYS Jazz is led by Honolulu-based jazz musician and HYS alumnus, Dean Taba.

Concert String Orchestra

Composed of vibrant, emerging younger players, Concert String Orchestra is the most advanced ensemble within our Academy String Program. Led by conductor Mackenzie Kwong, our CSO musicians represent schools across the state, and eventually join the ranks of our Symphony & Pacific Music Institute programs.

Mahalo to:

PRESENTING SPONSORS

Thomas & Mi Kosasa

GOLD BATONS

Kent & Jean Tsukamoto

Vibe Creative Hawaiʻi

VISIONARIES

John Love & Akio Yanagisawa / Stephen & Rosemarie Love

MAESTROS

Hawaiʻi Pacific Health

Lorrin Hirano, Esq.

Pacific Property Group

Randy & Helen Wong / Mike & Terrina Wong

The Resort Group

2026 Event Committee

Richard Ing

Matt Sasaki

Erica Mau-Schank

Jean Tsukamoto

Additional Mahalos

Event Publicity: 

Becker Communications, Inc.

Event Social Media:

Vibe Creative