Got invited by a friend to a night at the symphony to hear the works of "The Composer", Michael Giacchino. I'm ashamed to say I had no idea who he was. But after an evening with HSO, I learned he is the genius for literally scores of many notable Disney movies including Batman, Star Trek, Up, Coco, Zootopia, the Incredibles, Ratatouille.... Etc... The diversity of his music and how it is able to create both nuanced and bold feeling to the audio backdrop of so many different kinds of movies is truly Incredible! Leading this talented group of musicians, was the charismatic, artistic, athletic and cute conductor, Dane Lam. I am sheepish to admit, I wasn't super excited to hear the symphony since I am a balletomane who has been much more into the visual spectacle of dance and musical theater with secondary appreciation for the music in the background. They totally exceeded my expectations for entertainment value I thoroughly enjoyed the musical performance! What an awesome alignment of forces- composer, conductor, and musicians to share the gift of music with the audience! What made it even more entertaining was the brief introduction of each piece by the humorous and articulate director and resident composer Dr Michael Thomas Foumai who made quick costume changes for each movie score. I am so grateful to be living in a city that has a symphony we can be proud of. I know that funding is always an issue so I hope that Honolulu can continue to sustain this uber talented group of musicians and our world class conductor! They need an audience as well as funding .... so GO SEE THEM! read more

Last Night after our Early Dinner at Assaggio Went to John Williams Tribute Concert Star War Raiders ET and got a bonus Oncore Hanaho my favorite music Superman There is another concert next Saturday for just $15 anyone interested ‼ read more

Members of the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra recently performed at an event at Kapiolani Medical Center. I enjoyed listening to the ensemble play a couple different pieces. The small group sounded like an entire orchestra and the music filled the room. The group was talented, humorous and entertaining and was at the Medical Center to promote blood donations. The group is performing all summer when programs scheduled at the Neal Blaisdale Concert Hall with reasonable priced tickets. In addition, several free community events are planned in June and July. The free concerts are a good way to introduce kids to music. I will be seeking out concerts on my next visit to Honolulu. Please read more

Hawaii Symphony Orchestra - Performing Arts Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

A tremendous experience, thsi is a ereal treat for music and ocean lovers the best of both worlds!! Powerful and captivating performances. A++ read more

I saw LOST in concert with the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra. Overall...it was a C- for me. The advertised concert wasn't specific enough so I didn't get what I paid to see. What I expected: Orchestra plays the sound track of the show WITH the showing of the series. What I got: Orchestra plays the soundtrack with some uninteresting visuals. Also some actors reading a script. It was hard to understand what was going on unless you were already a fan of the show. As a musician myself, I can say the soundtrack is very same-y, it was like listening to the same song on repeat for 2 hours. Summarized experience: This experience was not for me, but other reviews say their performance is good. I would not recommend LOST in concert to anyone. read more

Before the pandemic (ugh, why does it seem like every review has to start with that?), my experience with the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra was, not great. I went to one event, courtesy of Yelp (thanks!), and frankly I didn't enjoy it. The orchestra was so mic'd up that I felt like I couldn't hear the live music, I was just listening to the radio. It also felt uninspired and contrived. That event was a live concert of popular video game music. That was then. At when they were based at the ageing Blaisdell Center. Enter the Hawaii Theatre Center, and the new executive director of HSO, Dave Moss. This team -- Hawaii's storied old theatre, and a the vision of Dave -- has from my perspective transformed this organization for the good. No one would envy the position they're in. A new partnership under new leadership, and then a global health crisis, in an industry that relies on spectators. Woah. But these guys are overcoming adversity and nailing it. Instead of hanging around whining about closures, they've been working with each other, and city and state authorities, to find a way to make it work, to keep their musicians active, to keep their audience involved, and keep the mission going. Each week, Dave and HSO's concertmaster, Iggy Jang, host an hour-long chat with special guests to discuss anything. Through this weekly talk story, we've gotten to know these two, and learn a lot about the HSO, it's members, and about orchestras in general. And wine! Each week is paired with a wine from Kakaako Wine! Wine!! Even better, they're performing! So far this fall date, the HSO and HTC have hosted three live-streamed concerts, called the Sounds of Resilience series. With a focus on chamber music, the concerts each have a theme to capture the prevailing mood, including chaos, Halloween, and upcoming Thanksgiving and Christmas shows. They're excellent productions and you can see how happy these musicians are to be able to perform with each other again. The recent changes have made HSO an organization with skill, talent, and most importantly -- vision. I can't wait to see what's to come. Thank you! read more

Love HSO. Just saw the Dawn of Dane with Jennifer Koh. Awesome. Just one comment. The newly designed outfits for the musicians are hugely ugly. They look like a cross between the smock the barber wraps you in before a haircut, and a hospital gown. Lose them. Immediately. read more

The HSO is absolutely fantastic. Last night they took The Muppet Christmas Carol to a whole new level and if you can make a kids movie a symphonic masterpiece then there's some real talent there. Highly recommend going to see them. read more

Hawaii Symphony Orchestra - HSO played the music prices within Disney's Muppet Christmas Carol. Created a joy for all families and all age groups. - Performing Arts Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. An awesome 3 hours of a new age "classic" with the talented Hawaii Symphony! This was the 2nd Harry Potter concert. We anticipate one yearly for at least the next 6 years. This is a must see experience. Get your tickets early because it's a sell out Pops Series performance. Way to go Hawaii Symphony and thank you again, j.K. Rowling. 2018 November Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban with the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra and choir! We r so proud of our friend Catherine Yamashiro who performed with the choir for both performan #HarryPotterInConcert January 2018: Beatles Magical Mystery Tour Awesome show. Did u know that the Beatles never had an opportunity to play with a live symphony like this these classical mystery tour.com Beatles? read more

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I've been a semi regular symphony goer for the past 15 years. In college, my boyfriend found out that the student tickets for the symphony were the same price or less than the cost of movie tickets. So we would dress up and go listen to the soothing, incredible sounds of a live orchestra. Since then, I have heard many orchestras play around the world. I love coming to see Hawaii Symphony Orchestra play! They always knock it out of the park! I'm a POPS kind of girl, but I will go listen to anything. I've heard musical scores of movies filmed in Hawaii, Harry Potter, Latin jams, Star Wars, the music of Queen, and most recently the music of Billy Joel. Every event has been a class act. Some required dancing in the aisles. Others were accompanied by a film ( Harry Potter and Star Wars) every one is excellent. The concert hall is dated, but comfortable and has solid acoustics. Everyone working or volunteering there is friendly. Pro tip... everyone always wants to go to the bathroom closest to the front door. If you wait 5 minutes into the intermission, there's a bathroom to the left when facing the stage. That one almost never has a line after the first few minutes. read more

I've been to a handful of events performed by the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra held at the Blaisdell Concert Hall. The events are always organized and well programmed. My favorite event would have to be Disney In Concert which I attended in 2016 and then again in 2019. The orchestra is full of talented musicians. They truly bring the music & magic of Disney to our little island in the middle of the ocean. I look forward to attending future events and supporting HSO! read more

Hawaii Symphony Orchestra - Disney In Concert 2019 - Performing Arts Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

We went to see Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire in concert. It was a "magical" experience. Lol... In all honesty it was lovely to hear the live soundtrack and watch my favorite Harry Potter movie. The energy from the audience was amazing we cheered on Harry and Cedric and booed old Voldemort. I love watching and hearing the symphony bring the Harry Potter music to life. Such wonderfully skilled musicians. The concert hall is nice and comfortable. I enjoyed the colored popcorn that they sold. We got the yellow and black for the best house Hufflepuff. My only criticism is that the line for the ladies restroom gets long especially during intermission. The concert hall staff are experts at managing this and you will get back to your seats in time. Overall a great experience that I highly recommend for Harry Potter and music fans. We will be going back for book five. read more

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The performers are outstanding, as is the conductor (pleased he gave me a smile before the show started). The first few notes played by the strings during "Peter and the Wolf" brought tears to my eyes, they were so pure and perfectly played. We heard them at the Manoa Valley Theatre, which has great acoustics. But this symphony deserves a clean and polished venue. First thing we noticed after sitting down was the dust coating everything up high. It wouldn't take much except for a feather duster on a pole to get all the high spots. C'mon, show the performers (and audience) they're worth something by being proud of your place! I feel honored we got to get close and personal with the symphony on July 3. They deserved a standing ovation. read more

Hawaii Symphony Orchestra - Hawaii Symphony Orchestra warming up. - Performing Arts Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

The Hawaii Symphony Orchestra is one of the best symphonies around! The talent they have nurtured over the years is apparent in their seamless synchronization and stellar solos. We attended Symphony POPs and it was an absolute joy! Hearing them in the acoustic arena of the Hawaii Theatre was a transcending experience. I've never heard their performance so clearly and so completely before! read more

Hawaii Symphony Orchestra - Performing Arts Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

March 8, 2019 - SuperHero Soundtrack conducted by Stuart Chafetz. We've been making an effort to witness the HSO at least once a year and encourage others to as well. Especially seeing how fortunate we are to have this level of talent in our isolated state. If you've never had the pleasure or experience of attending a performance, I strongly urge you to take advantage of the opportunity to do so, at least once in your lifetime. Thanks to Yelp for tickets to this incredible show! We were 7th row from the front and what a treat! When we normally attend, we're more than midway back so the change of scenery was pleasant. My only concern is, it's become my new preferred seating! Seeing the facial expressions of the conductor and musicians allows for an even greater affair. The intensity of the brow, the brutality in droplets of sweat, the contentment of a grin, the breath of relief, visual expression at its finest. I love listening to a symphony orchestra as it reminds me of the dawn of a new day. The bright and penetrating sounds from the brass instruments, like the first sunlight peering over the horizon. The cool, dramatic longing for the warmth of the sun pressed on my skin, how the woodwinds (personal fave, former clarinetist!) can communicate such a scale of emotions is beyond me. The strings with their pure, almost supernatural ability to create the perfect breeze after reflecting on the sometimes rough and painful waves of life. Lastly, thump, thump. Thump, thump. The percussion. The pounding. The thudding. The rumbling. The feeling of shock right to your very core. I feel it in my heartbeat. The constant reminder that I'm still alive. No audio/video recording is allowed! Appreciate being forced to immerse yourself in the moment and observe more consciously. There is an intermission so be sure to step out and pay a visit to the vendors outside. Always a delight and looking forward to the next! read more

Witnessed Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in Concert today and it was fantastic! I played the violin for eight years but I quit after high school and I definitely have been craving to go see a symphony out here and I finally found the time and event to do so. I found out that this was the second time they've done this so I see that they're doing a series. I'm kind of upset I missed the first one but I'm making it a point to not miss Prisoner of Azkaban!!! I thought it was going to be similar to the Star Wars in concert that I've seen back in San Jose years ago, where they just talk about the scene that they're about to play the score to and then just pause in between scenes. We were 10mins late due to parking issues and I heard them from the outside and it sounded like they were playing TO the movie. Like they were actually showing the whole movie!!! That made the tickets really worth it. I chose to be on the third row so I could hear the musicians more than the movie's dialogue but I didn't know the screen was gonna be that close to the edge of the stage. It was an okay seat but I think next time I'm gonna get a seat on the fifth row so I don't have to sink into my seat to get the perfect view. Besides the amazing movie playing, the musicians sounded AMAZING. I was surprised that there was an intermission, I didn't know there was gonna be one but I'm glad that there was because we came in late and didn't get the chance to check out the vendors outside. Outside, you can find popcorn, ice cream, lemonade, alcohol, and other foods. Can't wait for the next one!! read more

Hawaii Symphony Orchestra - Performing Arts Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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Attended the HSO's performance of Beethoven's 9th Symphony in D minor on 29 Dec. truly inspiring..... the execution of the orchestra and chorus was flawless, and Beethoven's 9th is quite challenging to say the least. I'll be back for the Gershwin program in March. It's a privilege to hear these talented professionals and I'm grateful that Hawaii supports this showcase of exceptional virtuosity. Bravo e Brava! read more

I had such an amazing time last night, being at the Christmas Pop concert, hosted by the Hawai'i Symphony Orchestra. Listening to the beautiful renditions of Christmas classics brought a lot of memories and definitely put me in a great holiday spirit. Thanks to Yelp, I had the privilege to witness the fantastic Amy Hanaialii live. Her performance and stage presence were truly captivating. The orchestra did a great job, they are truly an amazing group of very talented people. The narration of 'Tis was the night before Christmas was very creative, blending the orchestra with the spoken word. I will love to come back for more great events, such as this one. read more

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Went to the Symphony Finale last night.... it was fantastic! I got there nice and early and was rewarded with amazing 4th row center seats. We could see every facial expression, every finger movement, every bead of sweat... it was actually the closest i've sat in the Concert Hall, and the view was amazing. As for the music, they featured three composers and an ethereal selection from each. Some was haunting, some flirty, some cute, some you could picture a great battle emerging.... all of it was a joy to listen to, as it usually is when partaking of any live music performance. read more

The Star Wars concert was awesome! Watching the movie on a large screen with the Symphony Orchestra playing the music live was intense. Hope they do more like this. read more

Hawaii Symphony Orchestra - Movie screen with Symphony Orchestra below - Performing Arts Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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Attended Hawaii Symphony Orchestra's "Canadian Brass" presentation tonight. The quintet was awesome! Another outstanding presentation in the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra's season and worth every penny for tickets! Each musician was a virtuoso on his instrument (french horn, trombone, tuba and trumpets). Who knew they could produce such sweet music, backed by our own symphony orchestra?! And they were entertaining and funny! Most enjoyable! Woo hoo! read more

I am so grateful that we have a world-class group like this in Hawaii!! I attended the #HarryPotterInConcert event at the Neal S. Blaisdell Concert Hall. The Hawaii Symphony Orchestra along with the Oahu Choral Society were amazing!!! As a Harry Potter fan, I've watched "Prisoner of Azkaban" a number of times but the live music elevated my experience to a whole new level of appreciation for the work of John Williams and for our local talent! People go all over the world seeking the BEST singers and symphonies. After last night's event, I say they're right here in Hawaii. read more

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Waiting in anticipation for the Holiday Pops and Na Leo Pilimehana concert to begin. THANK YOU YELP for the awesome seats. The orchestra is warming up and sounding great! Meeting other fun Yelpers! Post concert review: what an outstanding concert put on by Hawaii's talented orchestra! Conductor Rob Fisher introduced each piece with easygoing patter. I particularly liked Sleigh Ride, the contemporary Christmas selections and pieces from Nutcracker. Na Leo came in right before the break and gave us a teaser of what was to come after the break. Their voices harmonize perfectly, it's almost like hearing angels singing. The program shows that there is a Disney In Concert performance coming up in January. I'm planning to attend this one and anxious to hear who the 4 vocalists will be. Thanks Yelp! Xoxo read more

Last night we went to the Rolling Stones at the Shell. it was fabulous was one little hiccup. The wine vendor was serving wine that had gone bad. They knew it and continued to sell it. It wasn't all spoiled because they had some that was OK But they also ran out of wine and had to close early read more

It's no longer the Honolulu Symphony. It's now the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra! I'm not sure what the difference is, but their performances does have a different feel to them. Their concert numbers are nicely balanced, with a mix of contemporary pieces, classic masterpieces and full symphonies. Seems like they have a lot of guest performers, which I like. Played at the Blaisdell Concert Hall, it's a nice change of pace from the hustle and bustle of the clubs and bars in Honolulu. It's a nice date, if you ask me ;) Although seating can be pricey, I think it's worth a concert every so often. I will definitely go to another concert if I get the chance. read more

I love music and I love being around people who are experts in their field. The wonderful thing about the Hawai'i Symphony is that for a brief moment in time, the audience can sit back in bear witness to an experience that few have the opportunity to share. A great work of art is much like a fingerprint, unique, and an evening at the symphony is exactly that. read more

Looking forward to the Star Trek performance! I always feel so blessed to have the opportunity of listening to the orchestra live and at such a cozy venue! read more

Hawaii Symphony Orchestra - Performing Arts Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

We have been coming to the symphony since we moved here 15 years ago from New York. Back then it was known as Honolulu Symphony, and it closed for a few years before it came back as the Hawaii Symphony. Artistic Director Samuel Wong has been replaced by JoAnn Falletta, but Concertmaster Ignace Jang remains to lead this fine symphonic group. We ended the year with the magnificent Beethoven's 9th Symphony, quite possibly the best piece of music ever written. My companion tonight was my son, Nic, who used to come with me and fall asleep on my shoulder as the first downbeat was struck. Now he sits in his own seat next to me and stays awake for the entire performance. This is a wonderful symphony representing our beautiful state of Hawaii. I urge everyone to come out and celebrate our great musicians! read more

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I've attended a few performances with the Honolulu Symphony and it's great to see they're back as the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra! It's been a while since I've attended any performances. I got to finally see the HSO with soprano, Sumi Jo this past Saturday night. Both HSO was absolutely amazing. I realized how much I've missed going to these types of concerts. I'm hoping HSO will continue to bring world class artists like Sumi Jo. We don't often get many opera singers coming to Hawai'i, but when we do, I really appreciate it. read more

I've attended so many great symphony performances over the years that I'm happy to see that the Honolulu Symphony has reorganized into the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra! With the arts struggling to survive in our schools, I think it's even more important to support organizations such as the symphony. They add so much depth to the cultural fabric of our community that would be sorely missed. With everything from classical pianists to Broadway singers to huge chorale concerts, you'll be able to experience beautiful music that would be on par with anything you'd find in a major metro in the Mainland. If you find classical music a little difficult to sit through, I'd highly recommend buying a ticket to one of their POPS series concerts which are beyond amazing! I can barely begin to express how I've been blown away this last year by the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra's concerts and it's motivated me to expose my children to more classical music and instruments. PRO TIP: If you're a student or in the military they've also got great discounts as well! read more

One of the few artistic excellences of Hawaii! Go there enJoy their wonderful performances !

Tonight's production of Handel's Messiah was just superb from start to finish. I am not one to cry with happiness at books and movies, but I found my joy too much to contain at one point. Wish you all were there to experience this gorgeous tradition being upheld by our uber talented HSO. And maybe hand me a tissue. There are two more HSO productions this year, of the much beloved Ode to Joy, at eh historic Hawaii Theater. There are several yummy eateries in walking distance. (I may have, um, eaten gingerbread cheesecake from Cake Envy dinner. Don't tell me you wouldn't be tempted!) So get your tickets now. There's not a bad seat in the house at Hawaii Theater, except the one that's missing you! read more

An absolute treasure. It's been some time since we have been but we have the pleasure of returning February for A Night At The Red Carpet. Very eagerly anticipating yet another wonderful evening. It's not a frequent occurrence for us to attend, but always so lovely. read more

The Hawaii Symphony Orchestra always offers uplifting concerts with some of the most talented visiting artists in the world. The local musicians, many of which have been performing with the symphony for many years, are Also extremely talented. For an uplifting evening spend the money and enjoy truly great classical music. One suggestion I could make for the orchestra is to incorporate the performance ideas of Andre Rieu Who always involves his audience in some participation in the concert. He loves to get them singing or at least clapping along with the music. He also enlivens classical music with stories and a personal touch. read more

Have been to two concerts recently. The Disney one where they had a movie screen showings clips of movies with guest singers and tonight with the Wicked Divas. So enjoyable both times. Beautiful music and singers. I especially love the violins. Would be nice if they had the movie screen tonight too. They can show the soloists, as most times it is hard to see the musicians in the back. Looking forward to the next concert. We need to support our symphony! They are awesome! read more

My daughter and I attended the Wicked Divas program last night and it was such fun - great music, great artistry from orchestra and conductor, and truly worth the $s. The orchestra is always impressive - we are so lucky to have such a great orchestra in Honolulu. The guest conductor, Sarah Hicks, was so energetic and engaged - she was fun to watch! Both of the "divas" were great too. Best of all was the wide-ranging selections the singers and orchestra performed...from Carmen to Spamalot and everything in between. The only sad thing was there were empty seats for such a super program. THANK you HSO for a great program and a super performance! read more