Hawaii's State Orchestra Returns to Maui After a Decade Away and the Concert Is Free

Three years ago, the August 2023 Lahaina wildfire killed 101 people, making it the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century. On Sept. 19, one symbol of the town's continued recovery will arrive at the beach where Maui's most famous resort has stood for decades.

The Hawai'i Symphony Orchestra will perform Mele for Maui, a free outdoor concert at Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows in Kā'anapali, marking the orchestra's first full return to Maui in 10 years. The event runs from 6:30 to 9 p.m. and will stream live on Hawaii News Now, making it accessible statewide.

A Return With Meaning

The HSO, now in its 15th anniversary season and recently designated the Official State Orchestra of Hawai'i, has not performed on Maui as a full orchestra since 2016. Dane Lam, music and artistic director, says the gap reflects something inherent to the state itself.

"When the orchestra was formed, the name Hawai'i Symphony Orchestra was a conscious choice: a professional orchestra for the entire state and all its islands," Lam said. "Being an archipelago, sharing HSO's uniquely electric brand of live music comes with logistical and resource challenges."

That reality makes the Sept. 19 concert significant on its own. 

"After all that Maui has overcome, it's fitting Lahaina is the location for HSO's return to interisland touring," Lam said, "making sure that everyone in Hawaiʻi has access to the world class, transformative music-making of HSO."

Maui Mayor Richard Bissen echoed that sentiment, pointing to the concert's broader purpose for a community still rebuilding.

"The arts have a unique way of bringing people together across generations and backgrounds," Bissen said. "I'm grateful to everyone who made this free event, MELE FOR MAUI, possible so that residents and visitors alike can experience the Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra and celebrate the richness and resilience of our island community."

What the Night Includes

Lam will lead all 64 HSO musicians through an evening of live symphonic music inspired by Maui's land and people. The program features a strong roster of Hawaii artists: Amy Hānaiali'i Gilliom, Raiatea Helm, Keola Beamer, John Cruz, Jeff Peterson and Kala'e Camarillo. Works by composer Dr. Michael-Thomas Foumai are also on the program, along with the world premiere of "Rain Shadow" by composer Sean Hickey.

The setting adds to the occasion. Guests will listen under open sky, with sunset estimated at 6:38 p.m., just minutes after the concert begins. Low chairs and blankets are welcome; no tents.

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Gates open at 4 p.m. with food trucks and a local artisan mākeke, or market, at The Branches. The concert runs through 9 p.m., followed by a post-concert gathering at The Branches until the 10 p.m. sound curfew.

The event is free, open to all ages and requires no tickets. No pets, outside food or fireworks are permitted, though water is allowed.

Broadcast and Viewing Options

The concert will stream live on HawaiiNewsNow.com and through the HNN app, available on mobile, Roku, Apple TV and Amazon Fire TV. It will also air on K5, with access through cable, satellite and streaming services including YouTube TV and Fubo.

Parking is available at Kā'anapali Golf Course, with shuttle service via the Kā'anapali Trolley. Complimentary spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

The Resort and Its Sponsors

Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows, known locally as "The People's Place," serves as the presenting sponsor and host. The 27-acre oceanfront property on Kā'anapali Beach has long been part of Maui's resort landscape and remains independently owned.

For those making a weekend of it, the resort is offering the Love Hawai'i rate for kamaʻāina and the Ultimate Aloha Stay package for visitors.

Additional presenting sponsors include Hawaiian Airlines, Hawaiian Council and Hawaii News Now. The event also received a grant in aid from the State of Hawaii Legislature.

Kelly Sanders, group president of Highgate Hawaii, said the evening will carry weight beyond the music itself.

"The mana of Maui is renowned for a reason; it's deeply rooted, bold, resilient, steadfast - it's what the world needs now more than ever," Sanders said. "When you bring the community together with the intention of honor, reflection and celebration - paired with the transformative mele of the Hawai'i Symphony Orchestra, something very special happens, and I believe we will experience that on September 19 - it will be a night to remember."

Mele for Maui takes place during National Classical Music Month, which falls each September. More information, including concert details and hotel offers, is available at royallahaina.com/mele-for-maui.