Maui Youth Philharmonic Orchestra

The Maui Youth Philharmonic Orchestra (MYPO) is a distinguished organization dedicated to fostering musical education and appreciation among the youth of Maui. Established in 2005 by Ms. Iolani Yamashiro and the late Mr. Lance Jo, the MYPO holds the honor of being the first youth orchestra on the island outside of Honolulu, the state capital of Hawai’i. The primary mission of the Maui Youth Philharmonic Orchestra is to introduce the fine art of music to Maui's children, offering them a new perspective on the world of music. The organization is committed to supporting and enriching the lives of its student members, believing in the transformative power of music education. Research has shown that learning to play an instrument can have a positive impact on children's cognitive development, and MYPO embraces this philosophy by providing opportunities for musical growth and personal development. MYPO's programs include the annual 2023-2024 Season and the Strings In The Schools initiative, which are designed to engage students in immersive musical experiences. Through these programs, the organization aims to open new dimensions in the lives of young musicians, potentially unlocking a lifelong passion for music and fulfillment. The organization is governed by a dedicated board of directors, with Ms. Iolani Yamashiro-Rahimi serving as President. Other key members of the board include Vice President Robin Yarborough, Secretary Michelle Ancheta, and Directors Sua Nakama, Kurt Muroki, and Rona Landrigan. The late Mr. Lance Jo, a co-founder of MYPO, is honored as Director Emeritus, reflecting his enduring legacy within the organization. The Maui Youth Philharmonic Orchestra also recognizes its alumni and supports ongoing engagement through initiatives like the Lance Jo Memorial Fund. This fund commemorates the contributions of Mr. Jo and continues his vision of providing musical opportunities to Maui's youth. As a nonprofit organization, MYPO relies on the generosity of donors and the community to sustain its programs and expand its reach. The organization invites support through donations, which are essential for continuing its mission of nurturing the musical talents and aspirations of Maui's young people. For more information or to get involved, interested parties are encouraged to visit the Maui Youth Philharmonic Orchestra's website, where they can learn about upcoming programs, make donations, and contact the organization.