Hawaii Youth Opera Chorus
65 years of music
Discover Our Music
E Nana Kakou I Na Manu
By: Herb Mahelona and S. Mailelauli'i Naki (while on staff)
This piece was written after a trip to the highlands of the quiet island of Moloka’I where the long thin needles of the ironwood trees rustle in the wind to make a sound like crashing waves. The birdsongs that appear in this piece are those of endangered native Hawaiian birds whose existence is threatened by the dwindling natural resources. This piece is a call to care for nature and the environment, as well as a warning that native language, culture, and tradition can be lost if not given the proper care.
65th Season
1961-2026
A Message from Quinn Kelsey
Internationally Renown Baritone
HYOC Alum - class of '96
“[HYOC] helps people to really listen carefully, to
find their strengths and face their limitations, to love life and pursue
artistry, to respect the diversity of our world, to give generously and
work productively, to be part of a community and live in harmony.”
Joanna Takagi Habermann, class of '98, Cantilena Director
BENEFITS OF CHORAL SINGING
BUILDS CONFIDENCE
HYOC builds confidence, teamwork and resilience vital for future leaders
CREATES COMMUNITY
HYOC fosters friendships and connections that last well into adulthood
EXCELLENT MUSICIANSHIP
HYOC offers high calibre classical musical education, hula instruction, multi-lingual repertoire , and much more
DEVELOPS LIFE SKILLS
HYOC alumni retain numerous leadership skills applicable to professionals across industries