At just 15 years old, Aya Okimoto has already made a remarkable impact on the world of music. A talented pianist and violinist, Aya has graced the stages of prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall, and now she's using her passion and expertise to create opportunities for aspiring young artists around the globe.

Unlocking the Power of Music for All

A Lifelong Dedication to the Arts

Aya Okimoto's journey with music began at a tender age, as she started playing the piano at 6 and the violin at 7. For her, music has always been a form of freedom, a way to express herself and tell her story. "I love how there's just a freedom of expression," she explains. "You can showcase all your expressions, all your feelings and tell a story through your music, and it's a very creative way to tell your story."Despite her youth, Aya has already achieved remarkable success, performing on some of the world's most prestigious stages. However, she recognized that not all young musicians have the same opportunities, as the high fees associated with many music competitions and festivals can be a significant barrier to entry.

Empowering the Next Generation of Musicians

Determined to create a more inclusive and accessible platform for aspiring young artists, Aya decided to take matters into her own hands. She founded a nonprofit organization and launched the World Wave Music Festival, an online competition that is entirely free for participants."I know that many students want to enter music competitions and festivals, but some of them are faced with financial barriers because $180 per competition is quite a lot," Aya explains. Her goal was to provide a space where young musicians could showcase their talents, receive valuable feedback, and connect with industry professionals, all without the burden of costly entry fees.

A Global Reach and Prestigious Partnerships

The World Wave Music Festival has quickly gained momentum, attracting the attention of global supporters, including tech giant Google. "I was amazed at how generous and kind they were," Aya says, reflecting on the company's decision to come on board as a supporter. This partnership has not only provided the festival with additional resources but has also helped to amplify its reach, allowing young musicians from around the world to participate.The festival's impressive lineup of judges further underscores its prestige and the value it offers to participants. Aya has enlisted the expertise of global artists and music experts, including professors from renowned institutions like Harvard, MIT, New York University, and the Juilliard School of Music. These esteemed individuals will review the submitted videos and provide valuable feedback to the young performers.

A Transformative Opportunity for Aspiring Artists

The World Wave Music Festival presents a unique opportunity for aspiring young musicians to gain exposure, receive constructive criticism, and connect with industry professionals. Aya emphasizes the importance of this platform, stating, "This is also a great way to get yourself out there, to practice, and receive feedback that will help you in the future."By removing the financial barriers that often hinder young artists, the festival empowers them to showcase their talents and take the next step in their musical journeys. Aya's vision of creating a more inclusive and accessible platform for young musicians is a testament to her passion and dedication to the arts.With the deadline for video submissions fast approaching on November 13th, the World Wave Music Festival is poised to become a transformative experience for aspiring young artists around the globe. Aya's inspiring story and her commitment to empowering the next generation of musicians are sure to leave a lasting impact on the world of music.