Class of 2017 Tamlyn Sasaki
Youth Symphony I, Flute / Punahou School
I
began my musical journey in fifth grade studying flute under Ms. Sabrina Saiki-Mita, who has remained my teacher for seven years. Throughout high school, I served as principal flutist in Punahou's Wind Ensemble and Symphony Orchestra. I also participated in various ensembles, including Punahou's flute ensemble, OBDA Select Bands, and HYS orchestras. I am beyond grateful for my HYS experience because it has not only allowed me to expand my musical horizons, but also allowed me to meet and form bonds with other passionate, conscientious people who exhibit the same love for music that I do. I will forever be indebted to music, for it has instilled in me traits of self-assurance, assiduity, and tenacity, which can be utilized in all my future endeavors. I would like to thank my parents, family, friends, Ms. Saiki-Mita, Mr. Nakasone, and Mr. Miyamura for their endless support and invaluable guidance, and for always pushing me to be the best I can be. I could not be where I am today without all of you! I currently plan to attend UCLA in the fall, majoring in Psychobiology on the pre-med track. I hope to continue my musical journey there by playing in a university ensemble.
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Elisabeth Sewell
Youth Symphony I, Violin / Homeschool
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y mother signed me up for violin lessons at the age of four, and I am forever grateful to her because I cannot imagine my life without the violin. Not only has it helped me grow as a person and taught me perseverance and hard work, but it has also led to numerous opportunities for me such as musical summer camps, workshops, and HYS. I have been a part of HYS for five years. Being a member of YSI has taught me patience, improved my musical skills, and showed me the importance of truly working hard for results. Most importantly, I have met wonderful and like-minded musicians that I have the honor of calling them my friends. Outside of HYS, I am a second-degree black belt in taekwondo, who competed nationally, winning the National Championships. I also compete in speech and debate, play soccer, and surf. As for college, since I am a Seventh-Day Adventist, (much thanks to HYS for accommodating me since I cannot attend rehearsals on Friday night or Saturday) I plan on being premed at an SDA college. I have decided not to study music, but I hope to always keep playing the violin, since music has been and always will be an important part of my life.
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Hawaii Youth Symphony Hawaii Youth Symphony