Senior Airman Jin Yamakawa plays bass in the United States Air Force Heartland of America Band, stationed at Offutt AFB, NE. In addition to his musical duties, he serves as a publicity clerk, GPC cardholder, and alternate CSL/ITEC/USLM.
Born in Chiba, Japan, SrA Yamakawa calls Honolulu, Hawaii, his hometown. While pursuing his degree, A1C Yamakawa toured Europe as a sideman bassist with various performing groups. Prior to joining the Air Force, he worked for a decade as a Music Director with Princess Cruises, where he led musical tours across Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and the United State of America.
He earned a Bachelor of Professional Music degree from Berklee College of Music, Boston, Massachusetts, in 2014. His musical studies include mentorship under renowned jazz bassist John Patitucci, three-time Latin Grammy Award winner Oscar Stagnaro, and session bassist Anthony Vitti.
ASSIGNMENTS
- USAF Heartland of America Band, Offutt AFB, Nebraska, February 2023 – Present
April 2025 - July 2025, USAFCENT Band, Al Udeid AB, Qatar
EDUCATION
2014 – Bachelor of Professional Music, Berklee College of Music, Boston, Massachusetts
MAJOR AWARDS AND DECORATIONS:
Air and Space Training Ribbon
EFFECTIVE DATES OF PROMOTION:
Airman First Class 13 December 2023
Senior Airman 13 April 2025