Amazing Asians in the Arts: Tomoka Nomura

Tomoka Nomura is an LA-based musician. She has performed all over the world, including her home country of Japan, and has performed with high-profile artists such as Fat Joe, Remy Ma and Ty Dolla $ign! Keep reading to find out more about what makes Tomoka an Amazing Asian in the Arts!

 

Name: Tomoka Nomura-Jarvis

 

Heritage: Japanese

 

Hometown: Gifu, Japan

 

Current City: Long Beach, CA

 

Current Project: Solo CD

 

What are some of your favorite credits/projects:

I had the opportunity to perform for the City of Gifu, Japan! It was truly an honor to be invited back to play my hometown to share my music and meet dignitaries. I also performed on the Jimmy Kimmel Show in Hollywood with hip hop artists Fat Joe, Remy Ma, and Ty Dolla $ign. Another highlight was performing for the Playboy Jazz Festival at the world famous Hollywood Bowl with "Jazz in Pink," an all female band!

 

What are some interesting facts about yourself?

From 1999-2009 I worked in over 40 countries for the United States Department of Defense performing for American and NATO troops, and at U.S. Embassy events!

 

Any advice for young people getting into the arts?

1. Be flexible. Last minute changes are common, so go with the flow and accommodate the people who hire you.
2. Be prepared. It is common for me to receive YouTube links instead of sheet music for songs I must learn. I write out the music myself so I can arrive ready to rehearse.
3. Be professional, act respectfully, dress appropriately, and arrive on time.
4. Stay in the public eye, using social media to remind colleagues and promoters about what you have to offer.

 

Do you have any non-profits you work with that you'd like to highlight?

I frequently work with Dream A World Education, a non-profit organization that combines performances and workshops to teach citizenship, character, and good morals to children. For more information on Dream A World Education, please visit https://www.DreamAWorldEdu.org

 

How did you get your start?

I came to the United States as a high school exchange student. I was overwhelmed by the cultural and language barrier. Since I always liked saxophone, I started taking lessons to avoid math classes and learning to write and speak English! I eventually progressed on the saxophone and I attended college as a music major.

 

Who do you admire?

Nobody in particular, but I am impressed and inspired by those who put 100% of their effort into achieving a worthy goal!

 

Do you have any mentors?

None in particular, but I do read lots of self-motivational books.

 

What have you found is the biggest challenge in your career?

At first, the language barrier and transportation to gigs was an issues. Now I speak better, have a reliable car, and I am motivated to pursue new opportunities whenever I can.

 

Where did you study at?

I have a Masters in Music from SUNY Buffalo

 

For more information about Tomoka, please visit her at:

www.TomokaMusic.com

www.facebook.com/tomokamusic

www.instagram.com/tomokasax