The Youth Chorus, the children’s chapter of Kona Music Society, will honor inspirational world music in their concert at 3 p.m. Saturday at Hualalai Academy’s Bridge Building.
The concert theme of “Hope” will take audiences on a musical journey circulating the world. United through the reoccurring message of love, peace, wishful anticipation, and steadfast determination, the 16-member youth chorus will share songs from across the globe in a variety of languages.
“We are developing a love and appreciation for world music, through international songs, and lyrics and rhythms from other countries,” said Youth Chorus Director Marinella Savarese.
The boys and girls, in two-part vocals, will perform “Tina Singu” (We Sing!), a Southern Africa folk song; a Gaelic and Irish folk melody, “Be a Candle of Hope;” “Do Di Li,” a love song in Hebrew which will feature soloists Sophia Burgess, Sasha Alvarez-Torres, Erica Greig, Roxanne Reeves, and Tyler Sims; “Inscription of Hope;” “Dreams of Africa,” and “Hope for Resolution,” a song written for Nelson Mandela and F.W. de Klerk.
The spring performance serves as the Youth Chorus’ second annual independent concert, separate from the Kona Music Society’s adult program, explained the music director, who works as an educator at Kealakehe Elementary School. Following the Christmas Concert in December, under the direction of Savarese and veteran music teacher Gloria Juan, the Youth Chorus prepared for their spring show through weekly Thursday rehearsals at the Kealakehe Intermediate School music room.
The group of children who comprise the Youth Chorus range from third- to 12th-graders who hail from school systems across West Hawaii, and come together each week to share their love of music.
“The chorus is for beginners to children of all levels and abilities,” said Savarese. “Everyone is accepted and encouraged to participate.”
The foundation of the youth program provides a well-rounded choral experience that is based on a passion for sharing musical knowledge and fostering a love and appreciation for all forms of composition. Children learn about basic music theory, harmony and vocal techniques, and the flexibility and confidence of working in a team dynamic. The atmosphere that Savarese and Juan create provides a safe, enjoyable space for children to explore their musical instincts and share in creative expression.
Juan elaborated, saying that for children – particularly for those who have limited access to music programs within the public school setting – this opportunity enables them to participate, share, and experience music and gain exposure to the adult chorus and orchestra curriculum.
“It is a rewarding experience,” Savarese added, praising the support and generosity of the parent volunteers and Kona Music Society adult members. “To see how music can make an impact in the life of a child.”
The Youth Chorus will begin their next semester Aug. 21. Rehearsal is from 4 to 5 p.m. for the entire chorus, with extended 5 to 5:50 rehearsal for advanced students, every Thursday at the Kealakehe Intermediate School chorus room. Parents of children in grades three through 12 who are interested in learning and creating music with the Youth Chorus should call 936-9567 or visit konamusicsociety.org for more information.