Japan’s best guitarist is a second grader from Okinawa—father helps daughter achieve her dreams

Japan’s best guitarist is a second grader from Okinawa—father helps daughter achieve her dreams

Hana Hanzawa playing her guitar in Akata-cho, Shuri, Naha City on June 15.


June 16, 2021 Ryukyu Shimpo

By Saki Yoshida

 

On June 13, Hana Hanzawa, 7, a second grader at Jonan Elementary School in Naha City, won first place in the lower elementary school division of the national 43rd Junior Guitar Competition (sponsored by Japan Junior Guitar Education Association). Hana said with a big smile, “I jumped for joy when I found out I won.” She began playing the guitar when she was three years old and diligently practices with her father every day, Noel Billingsley, 41, a classical guitarist.

Due to the pandemic, the competition was judged based on video clips of performances. Hana chose two contrasting songs for her freestyle performance—a slow and sad piece, and a fast and cheerful piece. She tirelessly practiced the songs along with basic exercises. Noel said of his daughter, “She’s a very fast learner. I’m excited to see if she will be able to play songs that are challenging for adults.”

Two years ago, Hana participated in the infant division of the same competition for the first time and won second place. Since then, the young guitarist, who has a competitive side, devoted herself to practicing and came out on top this time.

Hana found her love for the guitar after she received one as a gift for her third birthday. She now plays every day. Hana said with a smile, “I want to practice harder so I can play a variety of songs.”

(English translation by T&CT and Monica Shingaki)

Hana Hanzawa with her father, Noel Billingsley (left), a classical guitarist.

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