Musicians gather from around the world to join the esteemed Hawaii Symphony Orchestra, beloved by locals and visitors alike for its exceptional performances, educational opportunities and cultural vitality.
Founded in 1900, it was once known as the Honolulu Symphony Orchestra, serving as the second oldest orchestra in the country west of the Rocky Mountains. Featuring several Grammy-nominated and Grammy-winning artists, each concert is sure to impress, even if the show is virtual.
Without in-person events this past year, Dave Moss, the executive director of the orchestra, took performances online, launching a new Sounds of Resilience five-concert series. Given the overwhelming positive feedback, they then aired a collaborative performance of Ballet Hawaii’s The Nutcracker on KITV, as well as showcased the special “Journey Together” with Ron Artis II on Hawaii News Now. All the while, launching 30 episodes of “Tuning Up with Iggy & Dave” on YouTube, featuring Moss and Concertmaster Iggy Jang, discussing all things music with a special guest every week.
While preparing for its upcoming season packed with some of the best performances yet, the orchestra launched its newest program, Nā hōkū ‘ōpio, or “Young Stars,” which gives students the opportunity to play with the group’s world-class musicians. Serving as a competition for local musicians, the winners will be highlighted as soloists in a live performance with the orchestra in early May and will also appear as guests on “Tuning Up with Iggy & Dave.” Stay tuned for more announcements and when the Halekulani Masterworks, the in-person concert events will resume.
The Hawaii Symphony Orchestra has been a special partner of Halekulani’s “For You, Everything” program for many years. If you have enjoyed one of their performances before, we encourage you to share your photos and favorite memories with us on social media by tagging @HalekulaniHotel.
