Michael-Thomas Foumai is a distinguished conductor known for his dynamic performances and innovative programming. With a rich background in orchestral music, he has led notable productions such as Mads Tolling & The Mads Men, where he showcased a captivating blend of jazz and classical music, featuring iconic pieces from the 1960s. His recent engagement with the Hawai'i Symphony Orchestra included conducting the enchanting music of Studio Ghibli, bringing to life the beloved scores of Joe Hisaishi from films like Spirited Away and Howl's Moving Castle. This concert, scheduled for March 16, 2024, promises to be a magical experience for audiences, celebrating the artistry of animation through symphonic music. Foumai's commitment to creating memorable musical experiences is evident in his ability to connect with diverse audiences, making classical music accessible and engaging. As he continues to push the boundaries of orchestral performance, his upcoming projects are highly anticipated by music lovers and critics alike.

Join us for an unforgettable evening as the Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra presents "Ray Chen Plays Barber" on Friday, October 4, 2024, from 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM at the historic Hawaii Theatre, located at 1130 Bethel Street, Honolulu, HI. This remarkable concert kicks off the 24/25 Halekulani Masterworks season, showcasing the extraordinary talents of critically acclaimed violinist Ray Chen, under the baton of Music Director Dane Lam.

The evening promises a journey through American soundscapes with a program that includes Barber’s emotive Violin Concerto, Bernstein’s exhilarating Symphonic Dances from West Side Story, and a world premiere by HSO Composer in Residence, Michael-Thomas Foumai. This concert is a celebration of musical innovation and a tribute to the rich cultural heritage of American music.

Ticket holders are invited to enhance their concert experience by attending a special pre-concert talk an hour before the performance, offering insights into the evening's program and the opportunity to learn more about the pieces and artists featured.

Tickets will be available for purchase starting May 15. Don't miss this opportunity to witness the synergy of Ray Chen and the Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra in what promises to be a memorable start to the Masterworks season. For ticketing information and to secure your seats, please visit our website or contact the HSO Box Office at 808 380-7720, available Tuesday through Friday, 10 am - 2 pm.

Prepare to be moved by the power of music and the brilliance of live performance at "Ray Chen Plays Barber."

Ray Chen Plays Barber

Hawaii Theatre

Experience the enchantment of "Olympic Summer Romance" with the Honolulu Symphony Orchestra (HSO) on Thursday, August 8, 2024, from 7:30 PM to 10:00 PM at the iconic Waikiki Shell. This unique concert event celebrates the intersection of love and sports, perfectly timed with the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics. Immerse yourself in a starlit summer evening filled with the anthems of music and sports legends, including Elvis Presley, Lady Gaga, the Beatles, and more, alongside iconic soundtrack hits from the Olympics, the NFL, Chariots of Fire, Rocky, and other classics.

Under the baton of conductor Michael-Thomas Foumai, the HSO will perform a thrilling program featuring John Williams' "Olympic Fanfare and Theme," Vangelis' "Chariots of Fire" arranged by Henry Mancini, James Horner's "Music from Apollo 13" arranged by John Moss, Bill Conti's "Going the Distance" from Rocky, and a special "Portrait of the Beatles" arranged by Henry Mancini. This concert promises an evening of exhilarating music that celebrates the spirit of competition and romance.

Tickets for this unforgettable experience are available at the Blaisdell Box Office through Ticketmaster. For more information or to purchase tickets, please call the Blaisdell Box Office at 808-768-5252, or visit the box office located at 777 Ward Avenue. Don't miss your chance to be part of this one-of-a-kind musical tribute to the kings and queens of music and sports. Get your tickets now and let the games of love and melody begin!

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Olympic Summer Romance

Kapiʻolani Regional Park

Join us for an unforgettable evening with the Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra as we present "Petrushka & La Mer" on Saturday, June 15, 2024, from 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM at the Moanalua Performing Arts Center, located at 2825 Ala Ilima Street, Honolulu, HI, 96818. This season finale of the 23/24 Halekulani Masterworks is a must-see event, featuring a captivating program under the baton of Music Director Dane Lam.

Due to unforeseen changes in artist availability, the original program has been revised. Instead of the choral-symphony "Raise Hawaiki," the evening will now include the Orchestral Suite from "Raise Hawaiki" by HSO Composer in Residence Michael-Thomas Foumai, Stravinsky’s "Petrushka" (1947 version), and Debussy’s "La Mer." This new lineup promises a mesmerizing circus of the sea, showcasing Debussy's vibrant depiction of the sea, the dramatic narrative of Stravinsky's "Petrushka," and the enchanting Orchestral Suite from "Raise Hawaiki."

The detailed program for the evening includes:
- Michael-Thomas Foumai: "Nā Hōkū ʻŌpio Fanfare" and "Suite from Raise Hawaiki" featuring "Kealaikahiki," "Hōkūleʻa and the Way to Tahiti," "Pwo Master Navigator," and "Raise Hawaiki."
- Igor Stravinsky: "Petrushka" (1947 version), including "The Shrove-Tide Fair," "Petrushka's Room," "The Moor's Room," and "The Shrove-Tide Fair Towards Evening."
- Claude Debussy: "La mer," with movements "From Dawn to Noon on the Sea," "Play of the Waves," and "Dialogue of the Wind and the Sea."

For the safety of our audiences, masks are encouraged, and contact points will be minimized throughout the event. Tickets are available online or through the HSO Box Office. For additional information or to purchase tickets, please call the HSO Box Office at 808-380-7720, available Tuesday through Friday, 10 am - 2 pm.

Don't miss this spectacular season finale, where music director Dane Lam leads the Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra through a journey of orchestral brilliance and emotional depth.

Petrushka & La Mer

Moanalua High School

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli as the Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra (HSO) presents "The Music of Studio Ghibli" on Saturday, March 16, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the historic Hawaii Theatre, located at 1130 Bethel Street, Honolulu, HI. This magical evening will feature the iconic music of Joe Hisaishi, bringing to life the animated universes of Hayao Miyazaki's most beloved films, including My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, Howl's Moving Castle, and Kiki's Delivery Service.

Join us for a symphonic journey with special guest, announcer and YouTuber Norie Green, as we celebrate the legendary favorites of Studio Ghibli in a performance that promises to be an unforgettable adventure for anime fans and families alike. Please note, this concert will focus solely on the music, without the accompaniment of a film screen.

The program for the evening includes:
- Joe Hisaishi's Howl's Moving Castle: Symphonic Variation Merry-Go-RoundCave of Mind
- Spirited Away Suite
- Selections from Kiki's Delivery Service Symphonic Suite
- My Neighbor Totoro Orchestra Stories

For the safety of all attendees, masks are encouraged, and efforts will be made to minimize contact points throughout the venue.

Tickets are available for purchase online or through the HSO Box Office. For more information or to buy tickets, please call the HSO Box Office at 808 380-7720, available Tuesday through Friday, between 10 am and 2 pm.

Don't miss this special event that celebrates the music and magic of Studio Ghibli, brought to life by the Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra.

The Music of Studio Ghibli

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of San Diego's vibrant arts scene as we shine a spotlight on musical organizations that make our city a culturally rich community. The free California Festival Family & Community Day will showcase performances by the San Diego Symphony, San Diego Youth Symphony, San Diego Master Chorale and Art of Elan. Don't miss out – RSVP now and create cherished memories at the California Festival Family & Community Day. See you there!

California Festival Family and Community Day

The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park

San Diego Youth Symphony and Conservatory

Experience the enchanting beginning of a new era with "The Dawn of Dane" at the Hawaii Theatre. This mesmerizing event, scheduled for Sunday, October 8, 2023, from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM, marks the debut of Music Director Dane Lam with the Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra. The concert promises a night filled with magical symphonic tales, featuring GRAMMY award-winning violinist Jennifer Koh.

Set in the historic Hawaii Theatre, located at 1130 Bethel Street, Honolulu, this event is a cornerstone of the 23-24 Halekulani Masterworks season. The evening's program is a journey through ritual, enchantment, and legend, highlighted by the Hawaiʻi premiere of Missy Mazzoli’s Violin Concerto "Procession." The concert will also unveil the world premiere of Michael-Thomas Foumai’s "Children of Gods," a captivating piece featuring poetry narrated by Hawaiʻi Poet Laureate Brandy Nālani McDougall. The night will conclude with the timeless tale of Scheherazade by Rimsky-Korsakov, promising an unforgettable experience of storytelling through music.

The event also emphasizes safety for all attendees, encouraging the use of masks and ensuring minimal contact points throughout the venue.

Tickets for this spellbinding opening concert are available online or through the HSO Box Office. For those interested in becoming part of this historic moment in Hawaiʻi's musical journey, additional information can be obtained by calling the HSO Box Office at 808 380-7720, available Tuesday through Friday, from 10 am to 2 pm.

Don't miss the opportunity to be part of "The Dawn of Dane," a night where music, legend, and the spirit of Hawaiʻi come together in a symphonic celebration.

The Dawn of Dane

Join us for an unforgettable evening as Dane Lam makes his official debut as the Hawai'i Symphony Orchestra's first Music Director with "Dane’s Ultimate Season Mix-Tape." This special event is set to take place on Saturday, August 5, 2023, from 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM at the iconic Waikiki Shell.

Prepare to be mesmerized by a blockbuster lineup featuring season hits and more, including masterpieces from Rimsky-Korsakov, Beethoven, and Tchaikovsky. The evening will also showcase the incredible talent of Kenneth Hironaka, the winner of our 2023 Nā Hōkū' Ōpio Young Stars music competition. Special appearances will include the acclaimed Paula Fuga, and Trishnālei, the winner of the Mana Up 2022 People's Choice Award, adding an extra layer of excitement to the night.

In a gesture of gratitude, Dane extends a special invitation to Hawaiʻi’s community heroes, offering $1 tickets to teachers, nurses and healthcare workers, and first responders and their families. This limited discount is a token of appreciation for their invaluable contributions, made possible through the generosity of the HSO Board of Directors and season-long support from our esteemed sponsors.

The program for the evening promises an eclectic mix of classical and contemporary pieces, ensuring an experience that resonates with all. Highlights include "Scheherazade, The Kalendar Prince" by Rimsky-Korsakov, Tchaikovsky's "Symphony No. 5, Valse," and original works by Paula Fuga and Trishnālei, among others.

For your safety and comfort, masks are encouraged throughout the event, and efforts will be made to minimize contact points.

Tickets are available for purchase at the Blaisdell Box Office through Ticketmaster. For more information, please call the Blaisdell Box Office at 808 768-5252, or visit in person at 777 Ward Avenue.

Don't miss this spectacular evening of music and community spirit at the Waikiki Shell. Get your tickets now and be part of Dane Lam's historic debut with the Hawai'i Symphony Orchestra.

Dane’s Ultimate Season Mix-Tape

Join us for an enchanting evening with the Hawai'i Symphony Orchestra as we present "HapaSymphony Featuring Raiatea Helm" on Saturday, April 29, 2023, from 7:30 PM to 10:00 PM at the historic Hawaii Theatre. This special performance reunites the acclaimed Raiatea Helm with the Hawai'i Symphony Orchestra for an all-new program showcasing her favorite traditional mele (songs).

Raiatea Helm, celebrated for her authentic leo ki'eki'e (female falsetto) and ukulele playing, has captivated audiences worldwide with her dazzling performances. Through this concert, Raiatea continues her mission to champion traditional Hawaiian mele and educate the next generation about Hawai'i's rich history through song and dance.

The evening's program, conducted by Michael-Thomas Foumai, will feature a selection of beautiful compositions including "Nā Mele Overture," "He Mele Lāhui Hawaiʻi," "Sea of Love," "Molokai Nui A Hina," and many more, culminating in a symphonic celebration of Hawaiian soul and spirit.

For the safety of our audiences, masks are encouraged, and contact points will be minimized throughout the event. 

Don't miss this opportunity to experience the magic of Raiatea Helm and the Hawai'i Symphony Orchestra. Buy your tickets now and be part of a memorable night celebrating Hawai'i's musical heritage.

HapaSymphony Featuring Raiatea Helm

Join us for an unforgettable evening with Mads Tolling & The Mads Men at the Hawaii Theatre on Wednesday, April 19, 2023, from 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Located at 1130 Bethel Street, Honolulu, HI, this event promises to be a mesmerizing experience that music lovers should not miss.

Mads Tolling, an internationally acclaimed violinist and composer, along with his band, The Mads Men, will take you on a musical journey through the 1960s mad men era, blending nostalgia with contemporary flair. The concert will feature a selection of jazzed-up songs from television, film, and radio of the 1960s, including hits from their critically acclaimed album, Playing The 60s. Expect to hear unique renditions of classics such as "Good Vibrations," "The Good, The Bad & The Ugly," "A Taste of Honey," and "Georgia on My Mind."

The evening will also showcase a collaboration between Mads Tolling and the HSO, performing Tolling's violin concerto, "Begejstring," a piece that embodies excitement, enthusiasm, and passion across its three movements. Additionally, the program includes arrangements of Jean-Luc Ponty's works and a string arrangement of "My Favorite Things" from The Sound of Music.

For the safety of all attendees, masks are encouraged, and efforts will be made to minimize contact points throughout the venue.

Don't miss this special event that celebrates the fusion of classical, folk, jazz, and Latin music with the innovative and distinctive style of Mads Tolling & The Mads Men. Get your tickets now and be part of an evening filled with musical excitement, enthusiasm, and passion.

Mads Tolling & The Mads Men

We celebrate the cultures and diversity captured in wonderful music for the orchestra. This program introduces important symphonic works written in America that embody specific elements and tell stories of cultures from around the world and around the community. Each of us can define our lives through the music we love. This concert shows how composers take the music of their lives and share it for all to learn from and enjoy.

Family: Cultures Crossing

Old Forester's Paristown Hall

Community Chamber Concert - Fenway Center, Boston

Northeastern University

Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Beethoven's masterpieces at the "Pastorale: Symphony No. 4 & 6" concert, a highlight of the Beethoven Festival. This enchanting performance is scheduled for Sunday, February 16, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM at the historic Hawaii Theatre, located at 1130 Bethel Street, Honolulu, HI, 96813, United States.

Under the baton of esteemed Music Director Dane Lam, the concert promises an auditory journey through the tranquil and picturesque landscapes that inspired Beethoven's compositions. The program features the elegant Symphony No. 4, a work of profound beauty and balance, and the Symphony No. 6, Pastorale, an evocative piece that captures the essence of the natural world with its flowing rivers, awakening birds, and the overall harmony of the countryside.

This performance is a must-attend for anyone who cherishes classical music and the genius of Beethoven. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the composer's deep love for nature and his remarkable ability to translate that love into music that continues to move and inspire audiences centuries later.

Tickets for this captivating event will go on sale on May 15. For those interested in attending, tickets can be purchased online or through the HSO Box Office. For additional information or assistance, please contact the HSO Box Office at 808 380-7720, available Tuesday through Friday, between 10 am - 2 pm.

Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a memorable evening that celebrates the beauty of the natural world through the timeless music of Ludwig van Beethoven.

Pastorale: Symphony No. 4 & 6

Join us for an unforgettable evening of music with the HSO Spotlight event on Sunday, April 6, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM at the historic Hawaii Theatre, located at 1130 Bethel Street, Honolulu, HI. This special concert will feature the exceptional talents of Concertmaster Iggy Jang performing Vaughan Williams’ "The Lark Ascending" and Principal Horn Anna Lenhart showcasing Strauss’ First Horn Concerto. Under the baton of Music Director Dane Lam, the concert will also include vibrant symphonic favorites such as Debussy’s "Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun" and Respighi’s "Fountains of Rome," among others.

Ticket holders are invited to a special pre-concert talk at 3:00 PM in the auditorium, offering deeper insights into the evening's program. Single tickets will go on sale May 15, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to experience the artistry of the HSO in a program that promises to be both enlightening and exhilarating.

For more information on tickets and the full program, including works by Rossini, Ravel, and Michael-Thomas Foumai, please visit our website or contact the HSO Box Office at 808 380-7720, available Tuesday through Friday, 10 am - 2 pm. Don't miss this spotlight event that celebrates the talent and passion of your HSO musicians in a setting as beautiful as the music itself.

Michael-Thomas Foumai

Events

Upcoming events

Feb 16, 2025

Pastorale: Symphony No. 4 & 6 · Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra

Apr 6, 2025

HSO Spotlight · Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra

Past events

Oct 4, 2024

Ray Chen Plays Barber · Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra

Aug 8, 2024

Olympic Summer Romance · Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra

Future and recently performed repertoire

Conductor in Olympic Fanfare and Theme by Williams

Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra

Conductor in My Favorite Things by Rodgers

Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra

Conductor in Howl's Moving Castle by Hisaishi

Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra

Conductor in My Neighbor Totoro by Hisaishi

Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra

Conductor in Begejstring Concerto by Tolling

Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra

Conductor in Apollo 13 by Horner

Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra

Conductor in Spirited Away Suite by Hisaishi

Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra

Conductor in Going the Distance by Conti

Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra

Conductor in Portrait of the Beatles by Mancini

Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra

About

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