The Arts

Music

Music at Punahou

Music making has been an essential part to every Punahou student’s education since the school’s inception. Tens of thousands of students have benefited from Punahou’s exceptional music education programs through the Music Department varied curriculum, which spans kindergarten through twelfth grades, and the Music School, which offers private and group instruction to Punahou students and the wider community. While the Music Department and the Music School are organizationally separate, they work closely together to shape each student’s musical journey.

Music Department: K – 12 Curriculum

From kindergarten through fourth grade, Punahou students take part in a comprehensive general music curriculum. Starting in fifth grade, students select a music course from Band, Choir, Music Explorations, Papa Mele Hula or Orchestra. They may continue on this path or they may choose another musical course through eighth grade, with numerous performances and opportunities for musical growth. In the Academy, an expanded range of offerings designed for novice and accomplished musicians alike provide pathways for graduation requirements and additional elective credit.

Music School: Co-Curricular 

For students interested in furthering their music studies, the Music School provides private instruction in piano, string, wind, brass and percussion, voice, guitar and harp, as well as group classes and chamber music ensemble experiences. Students can also participate in additional complementary programs such as the Suzuki Violin Program, music theory studies, recitals, workshops, and masterclasses.

Visit the Music School for more information ›

Learn More About Punahou’s K – 12 Music Curriculum

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  • Stream Swell Lines by Jon Magnussen ’86, Performed by the Punahou Symphony Orchestra

    We are delighted to share a new recording of Swell Lines by Dr. Jon Magnussen ’86, performed by the Punahou Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Dr. Jonas Carlson. Originally composed for Punahou’s 175th anniversary, the piece was revisited and recorded by our students in December and is now streaming on Spotify and Amazon Music under the “Punahou School” label.

    We invite you to listen and join us in congratulating our student musicians, Dr. Magnussen ’86, Dr. Carlson, and Duane Padilla, who recorded and mastered the piece.

    Amazon | Apple Music | YouTube Music

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