Chamorro Cellist, Leilani Mayo-Matias, grew up in the Hawaiian Islands for most of her childhood. It was there, she began to study the cello at 8 years old. Though her family was from humble circumstances, Lani and her family sought opportunities to be immersed in the classical world. By the time she was in high school, the cello became her greatest passion. Her high school (Mililani High School) was considered to be one of the best high school orchestras on the island.
In 2016 she graduated Magna Cum Laude with her Bachelors of Music in Cello Performance from Metropolitan State University of Denver. During her time in Denver, Lani participated in chamber music ensembles, master classes, solo performances and competitions in the Denver Metro area. She served as principal cellist of MSU Denver’s Symphony Orchestra where she performed orchestral solos in a number of performances. In 2014, Lani won the MSU Denver Concerto Competition.
In addition to these achievements, Lani volunteered outside of school where she served at various venues performing for non-profit organizations and churches all throughout Colorado and California.
Since then, Lani has moved to Tucson, Arizona where she lives with her husband, currently serving in the Air Force, and energetic toddler. Throughout all this, Lani still maintains her passion for music, education and the local community.
As a native Pacific Islander, Leilani hopes to share the music that she loves with those who have not been afforded the chance to learn. Her dream is to one day, return to Guam and Hawaii to give children the opportunity to learn music.
