Boy Choir's new staff members in tune with group's past
By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer
Three former Honolulu Boy Choir singers, who performed under the leadership of late founder Roy Hallman, have joined the organization as adult leaders to participate in rebuilding efforts with Boy Choir chairman and CEO Blake M. Nuibe.
"Step by step, we're getting there," Nuibe said.
The new members, now active in the music and education communities, are:
Chang was associated with the boy choir in 1998 and 1999 and has taught choral music at Saint Louis School, Kamehameha Schools and 'Anuenue Hawaiian immersion school. He presently is a musician, arranger and producer and owner of Soul Tree Studios, a recording company.
"They understand the history and tradition set forth by the Hallmans," Nuibe said.
Roy Hallman founded the choir in 1974 with his wife, Nyle, as accompanist, with members from as many as 40 Island schools. In its heyday, the Honolulu Boy Choir widely toured foreign and domestic destinations. In recent years, membership sagged, and dropped to 25 at the end of 2007, despite financial assistance from the state. Nuibe said the organization is working to rebuild its ranks.
Choir auditions will be held Jan. 26 and Feb. 2 and 3. The choir charges no dues or membership fees, but appointments are necessary. Boys 7 through 12 are eligible. Rehearsals will begin Feb. 6. For information about auditions, call 596-7464.
The choir will participate in Monday's Martin Luther King Jr. Day parade through Waikiki.
Reach Wayne Harada at wharada@honoluluadvertiser.com.
Correction: To inquire about an audition with The Honolulu Boy Choir, call 596-7464. An incorrect number was listed in a previous version of this story.
