Waka Kim is a professional violinist with extensive experience in orchestral music, chamber music, solo performances, and teaching. She obtained her degree from Toho Gakuen School of Music, one of Japan’s top conservatories, studying under the mentorship of Akiko Tatsumi.

Throughout her career, Kim has garnered top prizes from competitions, including notably a second-place prize at the 66th Student Music Concours of Japan, as well as multiple prizes at the18th Japan Player’s Competition. She has received awards from the Japan Classic Music Concours, the All-Japan Student Music Concours, and the Japan Performers’ Competition. Additionally, she has participated as a violin fellow at the Pacific Music Festival, Tanglewood Music Center, and the International Summer Academy Mozarteum University in Vienna.

Waka’s teaching journey began as a collegiate volunteer for Toho Gakuen’s young music education program for students aged 3-15. Coupling her firsthand experience in high-level violin performance with her love of teaching, she has since expanded her teaching practice to work with students of all ages.

Currently, Waka Kim finds fulfillment in sharing her expertise as a violin teacher, collaborating with her husband, Paul Kim, at P & W Violin Studio. Through their dedicated instruction, they provide students with exceptional violin lessons, imparting their extensive knowledge and fostering the growth of aspiring musicians.