by Hyuntae Byun 

Shota Homma may be just a sophomore, but his musical abilities are already at a level comparable to most professional musicians. Homma has been studying music and the piano for over 12 years, during which time he has enrolled in multiple music conservatories and performed at many prestigious venues.

Ohm recently won first place in both the 2014 Music Teacher’s Association of California’s Solo Piano Competition’s Northern Division (MTAC) and in the Celia Mendez Beethoven Piano Competition. The MTAC is a prestigious and competitive annual concerto competition. By scoring first place in the Northern Division, Homma has positioned himself among the top pianists in his age group in all of Northern California. Due to his eligibility as a finalist, Homma will advance to a state-wide competition from June 27th to July 1st. Likewise, the Celia Mendez Beethoven Piano Competition is a rigorous competition hosted by the American Beethoven Society. As a perk of winning the competition, Homma was given the opportunity to attend a class given by world-renowned pianist Angela Hewitt.

Prior accomplishments in piano for Homma include a showcase at the Los Angeles Colburn Conservatory of Music’s honors recital, where Homma used to be enrolled as a student with a scholarship. Homma also won first place at the 2006 and 2007 Aoba Piano Competitions, as well as placing first in the Kathryn Gawartin Chopin Piano Competition.

Homma has performed at famous venues, which include recitals at the Landmark Tower, which is one of the largest malls in Japan, and a performance at the San Diego 65th Annual Salute to the Champions. In regards to his success as a musician, Homma says that he “feels thankful for parents, teachers, and friends for cheering and supporting me. I would not be able to play even a short piece without their support.”

In addition to his commitment to music, Homma works hard in academics. Currently, Homma’s course includes a total of seven classes, which include AP European History and AP Japanese. When Homma isn’t studying or practicing, he is an avid follower of European soccer, and is a fan of Manchester United and AC Milan.