This is how Hilo sings together: 16th Annual Hilo Community SingAlong Messiah (Sun, Dec 21)

Ever felt 200 voices lift you right out of your seat?

This is how Hilo sings together: 16th Annual Hilo Community SingAlong Messiah (Sun, Dec 21)

The first swell of organ, the hush before the downbeat, and then—Hilo sings. You, me, tutu, keiki with shy smiles. The whole ʻohana becomes the choir.

On Sunday, December 21, the 16th Annual Hilo Community SingAlong Messiah returns to Church of the Holy Cross. It’s free, it’s joyful, and it’s the kind of holiday magic you can feel in your naʻau.

What to expect

Close your eyes. Hear Walter Greenwood’s organ shimmer under the rafters. Rick Mazurowski’s piano continuo dances lightly beneath. Eleven community soloists step forward—voices warm as ginger tea—trading arias and stories of hope. Herb Mahelona lifts his hands, and the room breathes as one.

We’ll sing Part One (the “Christmas Portions”) of Handel’s Messiah, then that goosebump moment everyone waits for—the Hallelujah Chorus. Whether you belt with full heart or hum softly, you’ll feel the sound wrap around you like a Hilo mist at dusk.

The evening opens with Dr. Nicole Weston of Hawaiʻi Island Community Gospel Choir leading a soul-stirring warm-up: “Go Tell It On the Mountain.” It’s the perfect spark to light the room.

The people behind the music

This is a true community kuleana—made with aloha by local organizers who keep Hilo’s holiday traditions alive.

• ●Conductor: Herb Mahelona, guiding with calm, steady hands and a musician’s heart.
• ●Organ: Walter Greenwood, whose rich tones make the walls sing.
• ●Piano continuo: Rick Mazurowski, threading everything together with grace.
• ●Featured guide: Dr. Nicole Weston, lifting the room with gospel joy.
• ●Eleven community soloists: neighbors you may see at the market, now shining center stage.

The details

• ●Date: Sunday, December 21, 2025
• ●Time: 4:00 PM
• ●Location: Church of the Holy Cross, Hilo
• ●Price: Free

This is how Hilo sings together: 16th Annual Hilo Community SingAlong Messiah (Sun, Dec 21)

Insider tips

• ●Bring a score if you have one. Don’t worry if you don’t—scores will be available at the door to borrow or purchase.
• ●Arrive 20–30 minutes early for a good seat and time to warm up your voice.
• ●Layers help. The Hilo breeze can make the sanctuary cool by late afternoon.
• ●New to Messiah? Sit mid-hall or near the center aisles—the blend there is gorgeous and forgiving.
• ●During the Hallelujah Chorus, many folks stand. Join if you like—it’s a beloved tradition, not a rule.

If community live music events are your jam, this is the one that feels like singing with family.

Why we love it

Because it’s not a concert you watch—it’s a moment you help make. The sound blooms because you showed up. You’ll leave humming, cheeks warm, maybe blinking back a little happy tear. This is Hilo at its best: generous, welcoming, and full of mele.

Don’t miss these moments inside the event

• ●The opening “Go Tell It On the Mountain” with Dr. Weston—instant goosebumps.
• ●The first chorus entry in “And the Glory of the Lord”—you’ll feel the room lift.
• ●That shared smile when the Hallelujah hits—neighbors becoming a choir.

FAQ

• ●Do I need to read music? No. Follow the text, listen for your part, and jump in when you can. It’s all about joyful noise.
• ●Can I just listen? Absolutely. Sit, soak in the music, and enjoy the holiday spirit.
• ●Are keiki welcome? Yes—bring the whole ʻohana. Quiet fidgets are part of the soundtrack.
• ●What should I bring/wear? Your music score if you have one, a water bottle, and a light layer. Holiday casual is perfect.
• ●Parking and timing? Plan to come early and carpool if you can. You’ll be out in time for a cozy Hilo dinner.
• ●Is it really free? Yes. This is a gift to the community.

See you in the chorus, friend

If your heart’s saying “I like the sound of that,” follow it. We’ll be there, humming the alto line and saving you a spot. When the organ swells and voices rise, you’ll be glad you came.

If you’re in, get tickets/RSVP →.