"Classical Pacific" was started in 2017 by John Kalani Zak to feature classical ensembles and artists from around the Pacific Ocean. Host Louise Keali`iloma King Lanzilotti continued the program and included Hawaiian language and Modern Classical Music.
The tradition continues with host Sharene Taba. Every weekday afternoon, "Classical Pacific" reflects its roots, but also includes a deep appreciation for choral, chamber pop and third stream genres.
Tune in on Mondays for Classical Conservation Conversations with Dr. Shawn Ka‘ihekulani Lum, Tuesday Student Takeovers every Tuesday, Wednesdayʻs Manu Minute and Thursdays for New Releases and a Hawai‘i Composer Spotlight.
Opening mele: "Piazzoliana" by Jeff Peterson
Closing mele: "Makani Waipi‘o" by Queen Lili`uokalani, performed by the Galliard String Quartet
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This Kamuela Philharmonic opens their 2025 - 2026 Season at the Kahilu Theatre with Chopinʻs Piano Concerto No. 1 with Dr. Tyler Ramos, and Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition. Maestro Brian Dollinger and Tyler Ramos join Classical Pacific host Sharene Taba on a video call to kick off a season of music making on Hawai`i Island. -
Violinists Dr. Helen Liu and Dr. Clara Kim join Classical Pacific on a video call before the start of the day to talk about the upcoming concerts Galliard and The Emperor presented by Chamber Music Hawaii. -
Galliard String Quartet members Helen Liu and Anna Womack stopped by Morning Café ahead of this weekend’s Doris Duke and Paliku Theatre performances. The chamber music group will present three masterworks by Mozart, Haydn and Ravel, showcasing the expressive power of the string quartet. -
Mid-Pacific Institute sophomore, Dan Golub is a saxophonist and a journalist with his school newspaper, Na Pueo. Introduced to jazz masters by his father, Golub brings an incredible playlist and great advice to student musicians in this Tuesday Student Takeover. -
September is "Classical Music Month," and HPR celebrated with a countdown of your favorite composers/compositions as chosen by our listeners. The top 100 list was revealed on HPR-2 over 8 days: Sept. 18-25, 2025. -
For the past 71 years, Honolulu Chamber Music Series (HCMS) has been bringing classical music artists from around the world to local audiences. Helen Chao-Casano, an HCMS board member, gives us a sneak peek into scheduled performances with two string quartets, a piano trio, and a vocal ensemble.
