In a homecoming that blended music, education, and cultural exchange, Mid-Pacific alumnus Andrew Kam ’02 returned to his alma mater in early March, this time as an accomplished orchestra director for Bellevue High School in Washington. Kam brought 90 of his students to Hawai‘i and they took the stage alongside Mid-Pacific’s advanced string orchestra, performing in a collaborative concert that represented the lifelong connections fostered at Mid-Pacific and the impact of the arts on global learning and community-building.

Kam’s journey from a student-musician at Mid-Pacific to a professional violinist and educator has been shaped by a deep appreciation for music and mentorship. As a student, Kam found his rhythm in the Mid-Pacific School of the Arts’ (MPSA) band program, spending countless hours in Bakken Auditorium and rehearsing under the guidance of beloved music teacher, Alan Ni‘i. Kam’s dedication to music led him to the University of Miami, where he studied music education, followed by a violin performance degree at the University of Oregon, and eventually, a professional career as both a performer and a teacher.

Kam has spent over a decade inspiring young musicians, guiding them through the technical and emotional depths of music, and creating opportunities for them to engage in cross-cultural learning experiences. Kam is a strong advocate for the role of music and the arts in a well-rounded education. He emphasizes the critical skills that music fosters—discipline, teamwork, emotional intelligence, and creative expression. “Music is about more than playing an instrument—it teaches students how to collaborate, problem-solve, and navigate complex emotions,” he said. “These are skills that prepare students for any career path they choose.”

The idea for a collaborative concert was sparked when Kam reconnected with Mid-Pacific’s orchestra director Robert Murphy, a former colleague from Seattle. Murphy, in his first year at Mid-Pacific, has been working to shape the school’s orchestra program with a philosophy that aligns closely with Kam’s approach. “Music is not just for oneself—it’s meant to be shared,” Kam explained. “We want our students to understand the role they play as artists in their communities and to see how music can connect people across different backgrounds and experiences.”

The concert featured performances from three of Kam’s orchestras with a special combined piece where Bellevue’s chamber orchestra and Mid-Pacific’s advanced string orchestra played side by side. The setlist included a piece from the Broadway musical Wicked as well as Aloha ‘Oe, arranged by Mid-Pacific’s own Kumu Hula Michael Lanakila Casupang. This collaboration highlights the deep respect both educators have for preserving cultural traditions while providing their students with meaningful and immersive learning experiences.

Reflecting on his own time at Mid-Pacific, Kam credits the school’s nurturing environment and dedicated teachers with helping him develop the confidence and skills that have guided his career. “I remember every teacher who went the extra mile for me,” he recalled. “From my band director to my paddling coaches, they all played a role in shaping who I am today.”

One of the most valuable lessons Kam took from Mid-Pacific was the importance of community. He continues to carry this lesson with him in his work, encouraging his students to form genuine connections and recognize the power of collaboration. “Living on the continent, it can feel easy to be disconnected from home, but I always know that Hawai‘i and Mid-Pacific are a part of me,” he said. “And now, I get to share that with my students.”