Music is an integral part of temple life and plays a unique role in nurturing our spiritual growth.

Music brings us in touch with our feelings, helps us become aware of our humanness, and connects us profoundly with each other. Through music, we are able to express what deeply resonates within us when we truly listen and reflect upon the Teachings.

Our wish is to provide information and resources to enrich the musical climate of all temples. Contact information:
hqbooks@honpahi.org
Ph: (808) 522-9202

Musical Notes Newsletter

Current Issue

April 2026 (3.6 MB)

In this issue:

• Big Island Celebrates 52 Years of Gathafests
• Music Editorial by Francis Okano: Gatha Recordings
• Oahu District Music Notes
• Honolulu District Music Notes
• Committee Member List

Featured Music

Here are two selections from Choralfest 2014, where Hongwanji choirs from around the islands came together at the Hawaii Betsuin temple on September 28 to sing and perform together.

See also: Choralfest 2025 | Choralfest 2014 Videos | Choralfest 2012 Videos

Audio Files: 38 Gathas by Hongwanji Hawaii Composers — New to Praises of the Buddha 5th Edition (2024)

The 5th edition of Praises of the Buddha (2024) includes 38 gathas that are written by Hongwanji Hawaii members and that are new to the Praises of the Buddha gatha book series.

Recordings by a vocal soloist and keyboard accompanist are available to temples as sing-along aids — particularly helpful in the absence of organist or choir. An alphabetical list of available audio files is available:

New Gatha Scores

Between the 1990 and 2024 editions of the Mission’s gatha book, Praises of the Buddha, a number of new songs in English were composed for the Mission. In addition, the Music Committee has continued to craft English translations of beautiful Japanese gathas.

As a service to our temples and the Jodo Shinshu community worldwide, we have made a number of gatha scores available to download and use for noncommercial purposes. Partial list:

We would love to know which temples and groups are interested in using these gathas in singing for occasions. Please contact us and let us know your interest. If appropriate, we will send you a password to access the downloads page.