High school musicians have a new opportunity to pursue their musical passions with the recent launch of the Hummingbirds Youth Philharmonic through Hilo’s Hawaii Science and Technology Musuem.
The Hawaii Science and Technology Museum, or HSTM, is presenting this new youth orchestra to bring together talented high school-aged band and orchestra students from across the island, so they can hone their skills in wind, percussion and string instruments.
HSTM first offered music programs to students after launching the Hummingbirds Children’s Chorus for children in second- to fourth-grades last fall.
“The music programs came about because the kids in the community were pushing for it at our museum,” said Executive Director Christian Wong. “They love using musical instruments as part of our exhibits and activities. We have violins, cellos, all kinds of things, and there seems to be a strong desire for music.”
While the chorus reaches its second year, the Hummingbirds Youth Philharmonic felt like the most natural next step, with many high school musicians showing interest for more orchestral opportunities.
“We have all these talented high school musicians in the community that want to take their passion and skill to the next level,” Wong said.
Under the baton of maestro Conner Yoshimoto, the Hummingbirds Youth Philharmonic is designed to cultivate musical abilities while also enhancing skills in teamwork and leadership through collective performances.
Registration for the youth orchestra is open to high school-aged musicians who already have a fair amount of experience with their instruments and are ready for the chance to perform.
“We are thrilled to be able to offer this new music program as an opportunity for Hawaii Island’s youth to express and explore their passions,” Wong said. “A lot of kids in the community have spent years practicing and are ready to learn more and push themselves to be better musicians.”
The Hummingbirds Youth Philharmonic is the latest addition to HSTM’s diverse range of educational programs, which include science days at local schools, tutoring services, professional development in STEM education, a traditional Hawaiian canoe-carving program, and engineering workshops at the museum’s community robotics centers in Hilo and Naalehu.
Registration for the Hummingbirds Youth Philharmonic is now open for the upcoming season. High school students with experience in band or orchestra are encouraged to apply.
Those interested in the Hummingbirds Philharmonic or Chorus can find more information and registration instructions by emailing info@hawaiisciencemuseum.org
Email Kelsey Walling at kwalling@hawaiitribune-herald.com.