University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa music composition students are required to compose several original pieces spanning different genres, including orchestral works. Having a live orchestra perform those works is an integral part of the learning experience, however, some students do not get to hear their creations played by live musicians, much less a professional orchestra.
In late June 2021, four
UH Mānoa students and one Leeward Community College student were selected by their professors to receive a valuable learning opportunity of having the world-renowned Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra (
HSO) play their pieces and give their feedback.
The moment the ensemble began playing, it truly felt like magic.