In earlier posts, I have written about passing the torch concerning the younger generation and the pipe organ. Last night we rejoiced with Naomi Castro as it was announced that she has accepted the choral directorship at St. Andrew’s Priory, where Carl Crosier is the chief financial officer and soprano Rachel Lentz teaches math. Soprano Heidi Shimada and alto Nicole Masaki are Priory alumnae. I too have Priory connections, as I taught handbells there and was for a time in charge of the adminstrative computer system. And YEARS ago I was the chapel organist and accompanist for the Priory choirs.

Since Naomi graduated a year ago from the University of Hawaii with a degree in vocal performance, I believe this is her first full-time job in music. Carl was in the interview and claims not to have influenced the committee in any way! It was Naomi’s broad experience with many types of music that helped her win the job. Not only was she brought up at LCH and heard all the great music here, (I played for her parents Jimmy and Olivia’s wedding 30 years ago!) for years she sang with the Hawaii Youth Opera Chorus (and also taught) under the tutelage of Nola Nahulu. You might remember that eleven years ago, Naomi sang with the HYOC in our performance of Bach’s “St. Matthew Passion.”

Congratulations, Naomi!