Featured Student: Jin Yamakawa

“I have always been a fan of music; it has played a large part in making me who I am today. Initially, I chose to learn bass because a friend of mine was getting a rock band together. I thought of it as an opportunity to learn something new and interesting. I soon became fascinated with how essential bass is to bringing music to life. Since then, I have never stopped wondering how far my musical journey will take me. From the age of 16, I have been determined to become a professional electric bass guitarist.”

“As I continued to improve my skills as a musician, I would listen to a wide variety of bass players, such as Marcus Miller, Billy Sheehan, Geddy Lee, Jack Bruce, Rocco Prestia, and Steve Harris. I have always tried to expose myself to different bassists from different genres because I believe that they all have something to offer. If something sounds good to me, regardless of whether it is metal or jazz, I attempt to learn the bass line and find out what makes that particular bassist stand out from others.”

“All of my studying and dedication paid off when I was accepted to attend Berklee. I have enjoyed being a student at one of the most prestigious universities in the United States. I have enjoyed the opportunity to utilize industry-standard recording studios filled with state-of-the-art equipment. I have also become prepared for entry into a career in the music industry as a professional musician.”

Watch Jin Yamakawa play with Berklee bass professor Anthony Vitti in this YouTube video from Vitti:

“Overall, the opportunities and experiences I have gained have shaped my future and helped me become a better musician. Without professional teachers to help me hone my skills, I would never have come this far on my own. I now have much more confidence and feel that I am better prepared to begin a career in the music industry thanks to the professionals at Berklee that have dedicated themselves to helping emerging musicians.”

Listen to Jin Yamakawa play bass on Freddie Hubbard’s “Red Clay” here.