From Okinawa to the world.
A new future opened through music
2026
Ryukyu MIATY International Music Competition
Preliminary rounds: from July 2026 / Finals: October 2026
News
About the Ryukyu MIATY International Music Competition
Clear blue skies and sea!
A stage where young musicians share their artistry
We hold the competition in an outstanding setting surrounded by Okinawa's brilliant blue sky and sparkling sea. In this rich natural environment, the next generation can express themselves freely and develop their musical sensibilities on stage.
With a wide range of divisions for everyone from young children to dedicated music lovers, and diverse ways to participate, we create opportunities for more people to connect through music.
From Okinawa to the world!
A musical bridge to Europe,
the heartland of classical music
We connect the passion for music nurtured in Okinawa's islands to Europe, the home of classical music, and to the world. Rooted in the region yet working with internationally active musicians, we offer opportunities for global growth and heartfelt exchange through performance.
The Unity Division:
opening the future through inclusive harmony
Beyond age, experience, or disability, everyone can take center stage in the Unity Division—the symbol of this competition. We celebrate differences, support one another's music, and create a welcoming place that enriches and expands the future.
Continuing the legacy of the Shinpo Competition
This competition carries forward the spirit of the Shinpo Music Competition, which closed its 57-year history with deep regret.
Honoring a tradition that long supported Okinawa's musical culture, we are relaunching as a region-rooted international music competition suited to the present day.
With respect for Okinawa's culture, history, and aspirations, we continue step by step as a new venue for arts and culture into the future.
2026
Ryukyu MIATY International Music Competition
Preliminary rounds: from July 2026 / Finals: October 2026
Judges
Internationally active distinguished musicians will evaluate your performance.
Click to view each judge's profile.
2026
Ryukyu MIATY International Music Competition
Preliminary rounds: from July 2026 / Finals: October 2026
FAQ
What is the Ryukyu MIATY International Music Competition?
It succeeds the 57-year tradition of the Shinpo Music Competition and is Okinawa's first region-rooted international music competition. We value meaningful encounters with internationally active judges and create an environment where people with disabilities and amateurs can enjoy performing on stage, together with our festival, as a place where everyone can enjoy music.
Can beginners and hobbyists participate?
Yes, absolutely. In particular, the Unity Division welcomes music lovers, amateurs, teacher-student duos, and others—anyone may participate with classical instruments in various formats and repertoire.
Are there required (set) pieces?
Both preliminary and final rounds are free choice. Only published works are permitted.
Which instruments may enter the competition?
Piano; string instruments (violin, viola, cello, double bass); voice; and wind/percussion (flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, saxophone, trumpet, horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba, percussion, marimba).
I live on a remote island. Can I take the onsite audition?
Yes. Regional preliminary rounds are held on Miyako Island, the Yaeyama Islands, and Kume Island, among other locations.
Who will serve as judges?
Internationally active performers serve as main judges, including Ludovit Kanta, Gulyas Marta, and Shigeki Iwai, among others.
RYUKYU MIATY INTERNATIONAL MUSIC FESTIVAL
Organized by： MIATY Okinawa International Arts Organization
Endorsed by: Okinawa Prefecture, Okinawa Prefectural Board of Education, Embassy of Hungary, Embassy of the Slovak Republic, Embassy of Georgia in Japan, Naha City, Naha City Board of Education, Urasoe City, Urasoe City Board of Education, Miyakojima City, Miyakojima City Board of Education, Ishigaki City, Ishigaki City Board of Education, Kunigami Village, Kunigami Village Board of Education, Kumejima Town, Kumejima Town Board of Education, Okinawa Prefectural University of Arts, University of the Ryukyus, Japan Piano Education Association Okinawa Branch, Okinawa Prefecture Brass Band Association, Ryukyu Shimpo, Okinawa Times, NHK Okinawa Broadcasting Station, Ryukyu Broadcasting Co., Ltd. General Affairs Department, Ryukyu Asahi Broadcasting Co., Ltd., Okinawa Television Broadcasting Co., Ltd., FM Okinawa Co., Ltd., FM21 Co., Ltd., FM Ryukyu Co., Ltd.
