Niu Valley Middle School Visits Capitol

This morning, those in the Hawaii State Capitol were treated to a live performance from the Niu Valley Middle School's band in the rotunda.

Later in the during, during floor session the state House of Representatives recognized the Niu Valley Middle School band and music program for its successful educational curriculum that teaches music as a form of artistic expression. The school’s music program is led by Kent Miyashiro, International Baccalaureate Coordinator; Wayne Fanning, music department chair and band and orchestra director; and Zachary Morita, band, Polynesian music and percussion ensembles director. The band has competed at various musical events, where it has been judged against National Music Standards and has consistently received superior and excellent ratings.

The band was showcased at the 2011 American School Band Directors Association Conference in Denver, Colorado. This summer, the band will perform at the 60th Anniversary American School Band Directors Association Conference in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where the band will premiere a piece written by renowned band and orchestra composer Brian Balmages.