Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra announces winners of Nā Hōkū ‘Ōpio Young Stars Competition

The Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra has announced the winners of its 2023 Nā Hōkū ‘Ōpio Young Stars competition, spotlighting Hawai‘i’s brightest young musicians.

These winning local youth musicians will play solo repertoire with the Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra at the Sheraton Starlight Festival concerts, which will be held at the Waikiki Shell in July and August.

Kaua‘i winner Kenneth Hironaka, of Kaua‘i High School, has been playing the flute since he was 7 years old.

Having participated with the Hawaii Youth Symphony for two seasons, the opportunities Hironaka has had to play with skilled musicians has grown exponentially. He has been able to build relationships beyond the island of Kaua‘i that have improved his musical skill and fostered personal growth. Hironaka plans to study computer engineering in college while continuing to play music.

“To perform as a soloist with a full symphony orchestra is an incredible opportunity for any young artist’s musical resume,” said Dave Moss, CEO of the Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra.