Testimonials

The HPAF provided a truly life-altering experience for me this last summer.  As one of the Developing Artists, and a senior in college, I still have quite a journey ahead of me in terms of my career as an opera singer.  Before attending the festival I felt I was in a rut in both lesson and performance.  I couldn’t understand why these teachers were able to make it so much easier and enjoyable to sing.  The teachers I worked with opened my eyes to new technique that brought me back to a healthier place in my singing.  I feel that without this experience I would have graduated and been at a total loss.  I am so fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with so many world-renowned singers and instructors all within the gorgeous state of Hawai’i.  I made some incredible friends on my trip as well, who all shared an equal passion for music.  Even though I only attended the 10-day session, I can say without a doubt, I will carry these friendships and connections throughout my entire career.

Laurel Semerdjian
University of Southern California  ‘09

"Such a beautiful concert, I cried when I came home. I don’t need to go to another concert this year when I have seen such beauty and love and tenderness between musicians. It was a staggering performance for me.  It was so special. I will never forget it." -- Scarlett Bill, Kailua-Kona, referring to "So In Love" which featured Val Underwood, Jennifer McGregor, Kurt Ollmann, Iggy Jang and Irwin Jiang, on February 16, 2008

“I think it was a great experience to get to know vocalists as well as people who play other instruments.  It was the first time I got to play with professional musicians in chamber and orchestra!  My private lesson teacher was very helpful---Mr. Jang helped me with phrasing and technique and was an inspiring teacher.  It was an eye opening experience in one of the most beautiful places in the world.” -- Ming Tanigawa-Lau, violin, 2007 scholarship winner

HPAF is where I found my "voice". We at HPAF are all musicians extending an experienced hand to the next generation of performing hopefuls. Again, thank you for all your guidance and opportunities. I will always be grateful.  I hope to continue to recommend the festival to many up and  coming voices... -- Renee Saindon, 2005 and 2006 festival alumna, Boston, Massachusetts
 

"Thank you once again for having me at the festival this season.  It was truly a superb experience for me, and I'm already missing not only the island, but all the wonderful people involved with HPAF." -- Ethan Watermeier, New York

 
 "HPAF is a great program. In just three weeks, I was able to study with amazing teachers, meet other musicians and form lasting friendships, tour the Big Island, spend time at the beach, and most importantly, learn new music and improve my vocal technique. With a good balance of work and play,
I never found myself bored or overworked...I saw noticeable changes in my voice and technique by the end of the program. I would highly recommend HPAF." -- Michael B., San Francisco, California

"Thank you for the privilege of the concert at Mauna Lani...what a wonderful demonstration of talent and a program that mentors the up and coming stars." --  Sandra Schaefer, Audience Member

"I met some amazingly talented and caring people...To be honest, before the festival, I had no idea what it was that I was going to do next with my life...Thank you for all your hard work." -- Chris Ramos. Hilo, Hawaii

"...you guys were just amazing.  When I got back I really realized how much I learned in the whole experience of singing..." -- Njabulo Madlala, London, England

"It’s wonderful that the festival is geared toward developing the abundant talents of our island’s people, as well as showcasing internationally-recognized classical musicians.  We hope that our young people will continue to learn from the great masters you bring to our Island of Hawai’I in succeeding years." -- Mayor Harry Kim, County of Hawaii