About

Supporting Niu Valley Middle School’s Music Excellence

Niu Valley Music Booster is dedicated to enriching the middle school music experience by fostering community support and providing essential resources. Our mission is to inspire pride and passion among students and faculty through volunteerism and financial aid, helping young musicians thrive.

Niu Valley Middle School Faculty

Meet the dedicated teachers who champion our music programs.

Wayne Fanning

Band and Orchestra Teacher

Wayne Fanning is a graduate of Hilo High School and participated in HYS Concert Orchestra and the Pacific Music Institute as a student.  He received his Bachelor of Education and Master of Arts from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa.  Fanning has performed with numerous professional and community ensembles throughout Hawaiʻi.  Prior to his current position at HYS, he served as director of the Music in the Clubhouse Band and a clinician for various HYS Orchestras.  He has served as guest conductor for the Maui District High School Massed Band and the Central District Beginning Honor Orchestra, as well as several school bands and orchestras.  He has been teaching band and orchestra at Niu Valley Middle School since 1998, where his musical ensembles have performed for music conferences in Honolulu, Denver, and Iowa. Most recently, they performed at Carnegie Hall and the Sydney Opera House.

M.A. (Music Education), B. Ed. (Secondary Instrumental Music) University of Hawaii at Manoa..

Zachary Morita

Percussion and Music Teacher

A music educator for 17 years, Zachary is a lifelong learner committed to his teaching practice to positively impact student growth. 

Jeffrey Shitaoka

Niu Valley Middle School Principal

Principal Shitaoka supports the efforts of continued excellence in the Music Arts at Niu Valley Middle School.