Dr. Tuʻutau’s appointment marked a milestone for both the university and the Pacific, as the first professor of Tongan heritage with a doctorate in music.
This academic year, the BYU–Hawaii Music Program was honored to welcome Dr. Daniel Tuʻutau as Visiting Professor of Voice. With his unique blend of professional artistry, cultural insight, and direct, student-centered teaching, Dr. Tuʻutau brought both excellence and heart to the program-enriching the program’s direction and leaving a meaningful impression on students and colleagues.
Originally from Los Angeles and a longtime resident of Salt Lake City, Dr. Tuʻutau holds bachelors and masters degrees from the University of California, Santa Barbara, as well as a Doctorate of Musical Arts in Vocal Performance from the University of Utah, making him the first known Tongan to hold a terminal degree in music–and by extension, the first professor of record in music of Tongan descent to hold that distinction. His presence at BYUH is not only a personal milestone but a significant moment for Pacific Islander representation in higher education.
Dr. ‘Inoke Hafoka, Assistant Professor and Program Lead of Pacific Studies, reflects on this impact:
“Tongans in the U.S. continue to face significant barriers to college graduation and representation in academia. The presence of a Tongan professor in a field like music, with a terminal degree, is both rare and inspiring. Dr. Tuʻutau models what is possible for our youth and helps close the generational gap in access to higher education.”
While at BYUH, Dr. Tuʻutau taught applied voice, oversaw studio classes, and led several performance initiatives that brought students to new levels of excellence. In the Fall 2024 semester, he revived, developed, and directed the recently–dormant Broadway Revue course–an ensemble-based, performance-intensive class that allowed students from diverse backgrounds to engage with musical theater and opera in a fresh and inclusive way. The production drew enthusiastic campus audiences and showcased the breadth of student talent under his leadership.
In Winter 2025, Dr. Tuʻutau served as music director and conductor for the university’s production of Aida. From musical preparation and casting to pit coordination and final performances, his guidance was instrumental in elevating the production to a high artistic standard. His work demonstrated not only musical excellence, but a collaborative spirit that inspired students and colleagues alike.
In addition to his work in the Music Program, Dr. Tuʻutau served as faculty advisor to the Indonesian Club, a natural fit given that both he and his wife individually served full–time missions in Indonesia before they were married. His support for the club’s Gospel Forum and cultural activities reflected his commitment to cross–cultural understanding and student mentorship beyond the classroom.
Students frequently mention not only Dr. Tuʻutau’s musical expertise but also the way he helped them grow as individuals.
“Dr. T didn’t just teach me how to sing–he taught me how to approach music and life with discipline, respect, and self–care,” shared Dallin Bacudo, a student from Caloocan, Philippines. “One of the most important lessons I’ll carry with me is that rest is essential to growth. He had a unique way of making complex ideas click. His humor, his wild but spot–on analogies, and his reminder that ‘practice makes permanent’ will always stay with me. He’s a polished and inspiring example of what consistent dedication can achieve.”
Dr. Tuʻutau will soon return to Salt Lake City, where he remains active as a performer with Utah Opera and co-director of DB Productions Utah, a media company he runs with his wife. While his time at BYU–Hawaii was limited to a single academic year, the impact he leaves behind–especially for aspiring musicians of Pacific Islander heritage–is lasting and profound.
The BYUH Music Program expresses its deepest gratitude for Dr. Tuʻutau’s contributions and wishes him continued success in the journey ahead.
