The vibrant culture of Hawaiʻi continues to find its voice through music — and one standout performance is capturing hearts. According to a December 8, 2025 article by Maui Now, a classically trained pianist going by the stage name Laritza has been named the Oʻahu winner of the televised talent competition Hawaiʻi to the World.

Laritza’s performance was extraordinary — blending classical piano virtuosity with a traditional Hawaiian oli (chant). That unique fusion earned her the top spot among Oʻahu finalists and advanced her to the grand finale.

What is “Hawaiʻi to the World” — and Why It Matters

Hawaiʻi to the World is a fresh cultural initiative by Hawaiian Council. Through this show, talented artists from across Hawaiʻi’s islands — musicians, dancers, storytellers — get a spotlight. The platform seeks to uplift local voices, celebrate heritage, and share the spirit of Hawaiʻi with a wider audience.

This year’s finale — featuring finalists from Oʻahu, Maui, Kauaʻi, and Hawaiʻi Island — is scheduled for December 14, 2025. Competing artists will vie for a US $10,000 grand prize and the chance to become a “cultural ambassador” of Hawaiʻi.

Why Laritza’s Win Resonates

• Cross-cultural artistry: Laritza’s performance wasn’t just about technical skill on the piano — she wove in traditional Hawaiian chant (oli), creating a bridge between classical training and island heritage. That kind of fusion doesn’t just entertain — it resonates emotionally and culturally.

• Representation & pride: For many viewers, seeing a performer honor Hawaiian tradition while showcasing classical music talent signals pride, respect, and evolution — showing that tradition and modern artistry can coexist beautifully.

• Spotlight on local talent: As a winner on a respected platform like Hawaiʻi to the World, Laritza brings attention not only to herself but to the broader pool of Hawaiʻi’s artists — highlighting what the islands have to offer to global audiences.

What’s Next

Laritza will compete in the finale on December 14, 2025, broadcast on Hawaii News Now (simulcast on K5 and KHNL) and streaming on its digital platforms.

If she wins the grand prize, her blend of classical piano and Hawaiian tradition could become a powerful symbol — a reminder that heritage and innovation don’t have to be separate.

Stories like Laritza’s — where culture, creativity, and skill intersect — remind us why we love the arts. They challenge the boundaries between genres while preserving deep-rooted identity. As Hawaiʻi continues producing talents who respect tradition and push artistic limits, shows like Hawaiʻi to the World become more than entertainment — they become cultural milestones.

We’ll be watching and rooting for Laritza — and for all the incredible talent Hawaiʻi has to offer.

Source: Maui Now