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2026 Gala: East Meets West

  • The Kahala Hotel & Resort 5000 Kahala Avenue Honolulu, HI, 96816 United States (map)

HCMF 2026 Gala

Gala Co-Chairs

Honoring the past. Inspiring the future.

Hawaiʻi has long been a crossroads of cultures, and this year’s gala, East Meets West, celebrates the vibrant fusion of Asian and American influences woven together by the unique spirit of our island communities. Across the islands, we share enduring values of ʻohana, creativity, and generosity. This special evening invites us to come together to honor our shared heritage while supporting the next generation of young artists.

Headlining the evening is a remarkable artistic collaboration featuring world-revered taiko artist Kenny Endo, acclaimed erhu virtuoso Sun Hui, and HCMF Artistic Director Stefan Jackiw, joined by the Zippy’s Young Artist Orchestra. Together, these artists will bring East and West into powerful musical dialogue, celebrating tradition, innovation, and the promise of young talent.

Don your most elegant attire—from qipao to aloha shirts—and join us at the iconic Kahala Hotel & Resort for an unforgettable evening. Experience exquisite chamber music paired with thoughtfully curated Asian cuisine, all in celebration of the festival’s mission of world-class music education.

Your support directly benefits our tuition-free Young Artist Program, providing local keiki the opportunity to explore their creativity, discover their voices, and thrive through the transformative power of music.

Sponsorship Levels

$25,000 - Pikake: Title Presenting Sponsor (1)

Gala Evening Benefits

  • Exclusive Prelude Event from 5-6pm: Stefan’s Salon at The Kahala - Private Performance

  • Opening Toast for All Table Guests

  • Premier Seating & Dinner for 10

  • Artistic Director Stefan Jackiw and Guest Artist Yoonah Kim seated at table

  • Valet Parking for All Table Guests

  • Exclusive Luxury Favors for All Table Guests

  • Wine Pairings curated by Master Sommelier Patrick Okubo

Festival Collateral Benefits

  • Two-Page Story or Advertisement in 2026 HCMF Booklet

  • Sponsorship & Underwriting Credit for 2026 Finale Festival Concert on 6/21/26

  • Future Youth or Professional Musical Performance for Private/Corporate Event

  • Donor/Sponsor Recognition in 2026 HCMF Booklet

$10,000 - Chrysanthemum Sponsor (4)

Gala Evening Benefits

  • Opening Toast for All Table Guests

  • Premium Seating & Dinner for 8

  • HCMF Distinguished Artist seated at table

  • Valet Parking for All Table Guests

  • Premium Favors for All Table Guests

  • Signature Wine Selections for All Table Guests

Festival Collateral Benefits

  • One-Page Story or Advertisement in 2026 HCMF Booklet

  • Sponsorship Credit for One 2026 HCMF Distinguished Artist

  • Future Youth Musical Performance for Private/Corporate Event

  • Donor/Sponsor Recognition in 2026 HCMF Booklet

$5,000 - Orchid Sponsor (10)

Gala Evening Benefits

  • Opening Toast for All Table Guests

  • Preferred Seating & Dinner for 8

  • Valet Parking for All Table Guests

  • Festival Favors for All Table Guests

Festival Collateral Benefits

  • Half-Page Story or Advertisement in 2026 HCMF Booklet

  • Sponsorship Credit for 2026 Young Artist Program

  • Donor/Sponsor Recognition in 2026 HCMF Booklet

$600 - General Admission for 2 (20 Pairs)

Gala Evening Benefits

  • Opening Toast for you and a guest

  • Dinner for two

  • Four Additional Beverage Tickets

Festival Collateral Benefits

  • Donor/Sponsor Recognition in 2026 HCMF Booklet

Gala Tickets

Thank you to our sponsors