Kamuela Philharmonic Orchestra

The Kamuela Philharmonic Orchestra Society is a distinguished non-profit charity based on Hawaii Island, committed to the mission of delivering live, high-quality orchestral music to its audiences. Established in early 2004 by Dr. Madeline Schatz-Harris, a seasoned maestro, violinist, and educator, the orchestra has flourished under her leadership and has grown into a professional symphony orchestra featuring up to 80 musicians. The Kamuela Philharmonic is celebrated for its dedication to classical music and its efforts to honor the cultural and musical heritage of the Hawaiian people. Dr. Schatz-Harris, who founded the orchestra after moving to Hawaii Island following a successful career on the mainland, served as the Artistic Director and Conductor Emeritus until 2015. During her tenure, the orchestra expanded its repertoire and engaged in various collaborative projects. Noteworthy collaborations include performances with Grammy-winning slack-key guitarist John Keawe and a commissioned piece titled "Voyages" by composer Paul Csige, which paired classical music with the art of renowned Hawaiian visual artist Herb Kane. The Kamuela Philharmonic is also deeply invested in educational and community outreach. It has been presenting children's concerts and, since 2012, has organized annual concerto competitions for young musicians. The competition, now named the Schatz-Harris Concerto Competition in honor of the founder, invites winners from three age groups to perform with the orchestra, showcasing the talent of Hawaii's youth. Following Dr. Schatz-Harris's departure, the orchestra embarked on a global search for a new Artistic Director, culminating in the appointment of Maestro Brian Dollinger in 2016 from over 100 candidates. This marked a significant milestone for the organization. The Kamuela Philharmonic is governed by a dedicated Board of Directors and boasts a roster of talented musicians for its concert seasons. The orchestra's commitment to the community is evident in its growth and the support it receives from its audience, donors, and volunteers. The IRS recognizes the Kamuela Philharmonic as a 501(c)(3) organization, making donations tax-deductible. As the Kamuela Philharmonic continues to present its musical offerings, it remains a beacon of classical music on Hawaii Island, fostering a growing appreciation for the genre among residents and visitors alike. The organization extends its heartfelt thanks to all its supporters and looks forward to many more years of sharing the joy of music.