About Us
Ma o nā keiki, e mau ai, ka 'ike ku'una o ka lāhui
Through our children we perpetuate our knowledge and heritage
For over six decades, the Hawaii Youth Opera Chorus has served as the heartbeat of Hawaii’s youth music scene. We believe that every child deserves a stage where they feel seen, heard, and celebrated. Our programs bridge the gap between nearly 100 schools across Oahu, bringing together a diverse tapestry of students from Grades K–12 to create something beautiful, together.
At HYOC, the "About Us" isn't about our history—it's about our future. It's about the social growth that happens between rehearsals, the self-esteem that blooms during a solo, and the pure fun of making music in a space that values every voice. Whether we are performing in a grand hall or bringing a smile to a neighborhood care home, our mission remains the same: to foster a safe, inclusive, and joyous environment where the next generation of Hawaii's musicians can thrive. Come find your place in the song.
Our Story
The Hawai'i Youth Opera Chorus (HYOC) formerly the Honolulu Children's Opera Chorus began in 1961 when 300 children responded to a request from the Hawai'i Opera Theater to audition for 16 roles in La Boheme. Parents and music directors recognized that there was significant interest among young children to perform traditional choral music.
Originally, HYOC existed to provide children performers for opera productions; but over time, HYOC grew in stature and developed its own repertoire. Today there are over 100 members ranging in age from 5 - 18. Its musical repertoire encompasses Western European, Sacred, Secular, traditional Hawaiian, as well as other ethnic music.