Top Piano Competitions in New York for Kids: Perform at Carnegie Hall

If you’re looking for a piano competition in New York that your child can participate in—from young beginners to teenagers—there are wonderful opportunities available. I have personally entered three students in New York competitions, and they received First Prize, Third Prize, and Honorable Mention. All three were given the opportunity to perform at the world-famous Carnegie Hall.

For families who dream of building musical confidence, stage experience, or a strong artistic résumé, these competitions are a great first step.

Yes, Your Child Can Perform at Carnegie Hall

Carnegie Hall has three different performance spaces:

Weill Recital Hall — the small, elegant hall often used for competitions
Zankel Hall — a modern mid-sized hall
Stern Auditorium — the largest hall used by world-famous artists

For children’s piano competitions, performances are typically held in Weill Recital Hall or Zankel Hall. The two competitions I recommend are:

Crescendo International Music Competition
https://www.crescendocompetition.org/
American Protégé International Piano & Strings Competition
https://americanprotege.com/

Both offer the chance to perform at Carnegie Hall if selected.

Crescendo International Music Competition

This competition has several categories depending on age and level.
If your child recently started piano and shows potential, the Little Mozart Category is a wonderful entry point. There are also more advanced divisions for experienced players.

American Protégé Competition

Compared to Japan, the overall level in this competition is not extremely high, so strong Japanese-trained students often have a good chance of being selected. However, performing at Carnegie Hall requires a separate performance fee of about $500, in addition to the initial application fee.

This surprised me at first, but most parents were happy to pay since it’s a memorable and prestigious experience for their child. And of course—there are always some very talented young pianists who use this opportunity as a stepping stone to the next level.

Real Students Who Won

6-year-old girl — placed 3rd with a Mozart Minuet (not a difficult piece, but she memorized well and played with expression)
7-year-old boy — won 1st Prize with the 1st movement of a Mozart Sonata and performed at Zankel Hall
12-year-old boy — received an Honorable Mention with a Bach Invention and still performed at Carnegie Hall

The first two were Crescendo Competition winners, and the third was selected by American Protégé.

Is Your Child Ready for a Competition?

Here are common traits of students who succeed:

Loves playing piano
Can memorize music
Can read music (and enjoys it)
Practices daily (even a little)
Has a stable mindset under pressure
Shows some musical expression

If this sounds like your child, they may be a great candidate. Think of it as a fun musical experience, rather than a stressful, high-pressure event.

Conclusion

In this article, I introduced two well-known piano competitions in New York that can lead to performances at Carnegie Hall. Recently, I asked one of my 9-year-old students if he wanted to try a competition. His answer was a very honest: “Nooooo!”

If your child is interested, talk with your piano teacher and explore the possibility. Being selected and performing at Carnegie Hall becomes a valuable memory—and a wonderful achievement for their future.

Best Pho in Queens: District Saigon in Astoria, New York

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

I recently found another pho restaurant in New York that I absolutely loved, so I had to share it. Last month, I visited a spot in Queens, and it instantly became one of my new favorites.

While most people think of Manhattan when searching for Vietnamese food, the truth is that Queens has far more authentic and higher-quality Asian restaurants.

The reason is simple: Queens is home to a large community of Asian immigrants, especially from Southeast Asia, including Vietnam and Malaysia. One of the most popular areas is Astoria, where today’s featured restaurant — District Saigon — is located. They even sell their own tote bags, and I sometimes spot people using them around the neighborhood. Cute and stylish!

Where is it located?

District Saigon is in Astoria, Queens, and it’s easy to reach by subway — just take one of the orange lines (B/D/F/M). I stopped by after visiting the Steinway Factory, and I was so glad I did because the food was amazing. The area is lively and filled with people, making it feel very safe to walk around.

A Modern Vietnamese Restaurant

The restaurant has a stylish, modern atmosphere — the kind of place you could go for a casual dinner or even a date. I find there are generally two types of Vietnamese restaurants: the old-school, traditional ones and the trendy, modern ones. District Saigon is definitely the latter.

Pho and Summer Rolls

I ordered my usual — a basic beef pho. The broth was rich and flavorful, with a deeper taste compared to other places. I also tried the summer rolls, which came with a dark peanut dipping sauce (most places serve a lighter, miso-colored version). The rolls were packed with shrimp, which made me really happy — and unlike many spots, there was no mint inside.

The total came to about $35 including tip, which is pretty average for New York.

Conclusion

Once again, I ended up writing about pho — I can’t help it! Whenever I discover a delicious pho restaurant in New York, I want to share it. I’ll keep posting my top pho recommendations as I find them, especially in Queens and Astoria. If you love Vietnamese food, District Saigon is definitely worth a visit.

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How to Move Forward If You Didn’t Secure an Artist Visa

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

What do you do when your visa application is rejected by the USCIS. Today I want to talk about artist visas. If you obtain one, you could extend your U.S. career by three years—but these days, obtaining it has become increasingly difficult.

The Reality of the Artist Visa and Its Challenges

There are many people around me who unfortunately couldn’t secure their artist visa. Reasons for denial include insufficient documentation or unsuccessful interviews, and no matter how much effort you put in, success is not guaranteed. The evaluation by the immigration authorities is especially strict, and once you get rejected, it can be emotionally tough.

Finding Success Even After a Visa Denial

Not getting the visa doesn’t mean the end. In fact, many artists return to Japan or move to Europe and continue their careers successfully. Some are even out-pacing me now. Even if you didn’t get the visa, there are infinite chances to carve out a new pathway elsewhere.

Rethinking What “Success” Means

What is success? It isn’t necessarily about being famous in the U.S. I believe true success is being able to pursue what you’re passionate about, freely working in your field, and steadily stepping forward. So if you didn’t get the artist visa, view it as the beginning of a new opportunity.

For Those Planning to Apply for a Visa: Go in with a Positive Mindset

If you’re considering applying for the artist visa (O-1) from now on, I say: apply with a “why not try” attitude. That way you’ll feel less pressure, and you won’t ride the emotional roller-coaster over the result. Be honest. Prove your achievements and future potential. And if the visa doesn’t come through, your path as an artist still has other routes. I’m cheering you on as you begin this new challenge.

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My Rental Experience with Steinway & Sons

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

Once upon a time, I rented a small piano in my small apartment in Lower East Side. I chose a studio-type upright from the Boston brand, which is owned by Steinway & Sons. I selected it because the sound quality is close to that of a grand piano.

At the time, I had no U.S. credit history, so I paid a cash deposit of about $900 and rented it for $97 per month.

Piano Showrooms on 58th Street

Most major piano showrooms are located around West 58th Street in Manhattan. Steinway’s showroom is now near Midtown, not far from Times Square. I looked and tried all upright piano on every stores on this street.

Types of Upright Pianos

There are four main types of upright pianos:

Spinet Piano
Console Piano
Studio Piano (the type I rented)
Professional Upright

The studio upright has a richer, more resonant sound. It’s a great choice if you want something closer to a grand piano but don’t have the space. So I chose one of studio pianos from Steinway & Sons.

Piano Moving Costs

Steinway works with professional piano movers who carefully handle transportation. My move cost about $300 plus tip. If your building doesn’t have an elevator, expect extra fees—often charged per staircase step!

Affordable Option: Piano Piano

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly rental, I recommend Piano Piano. You can rent a Yamaha piano for around $155 per month, which is a great value.

Conclusion

That was my experience renting a piano in New York City. If your child wants to start learning piano, I highly recommend renting a real acoustic piano rather than a digital keyboard. A beautiful sound helps develop finger strength, train the ear, and boost motivation.

Playing on a real instrument brings joy—and makes practice more inspiring.

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What Is Sunrise Mart? A Look at New York’s Famous Japanese Grocery

What Is Sunrise Mart in New York?

When it comes to Japanese supermarkets in New York, Sunrise Mart is probably the most famous. Its first store opened in the East Village, though sadly that location has since closed.

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

When I first came to New York in 2001, Sunrise Mart was a lively Japanese grocery where almost all the staff were Japanese. It truly sparkled as a symbol of Japanese culture in Manhattan.

Sunrise Mart After the Pandemic

Post-pandemic, the Japanese population in Manhattan has decreased significantly. As a result, many of the current staff at Sunrise Mart are international.

In the early 2000s, many Japanese workers were undocumented, but with today’s stricter visa rules, the situation has changed. Still, Sunrise Mart remains a beloved place for both Japanese expats and locals.

Where Is Sunrise Mart Midtown Located?

The Sunrise Mart I’m introducing today is located in Midtown Manhattan, a busy business district filled with white-collar workers.

Since I often visit the nearby New York Public Library, I frequently stop by Sunrise Mart for groceries or a quick bite.

👉 Read about the New York Public Library here

The Entrance of Sunrise Mart Midtown

Unlike before, the Midtown store is now divided into two spaces:

One for fresh groceries
One for prepared meals and dining

If you want to eat, head to the west-side entrance. If you’re shopping for groceries, enter through the east-side entrance. Both look quite similar, so don’t get confused (laughs)

Sunrise Mart Bento Boxes

During the 2022 inflation peak, bento prices skyrocketed, reaching nearly $18 per box. Thankfully, prices have come down a bit, though compared to Japan, they’re still shockingly high.

Salmon Bento: about $19 (¥1,900)
Mackerel Bento: about $16 (¥1,600)

In Tokyo, the same bento would cost around ¥500!

Nutritious and Thoughtful Bento Options

Despite the high prices, Sunrise Mart’s bentos are well-balanced. Alongside salmon or mackerel, you’ll find side dishes like chikuzen-ni (simmered vegetables) and isobe-age (seaweed fried items).

For students or busy professionals living alone, these thoughtful extras provide much-needed nutrition.

Café Space on the Second Floo

The Midtown Sunrise Mart also has a second-floor café-like space. It’s a cozy area where you can sit and enjoy your meal. While it doesn’t offer Wi-Fi, it’s still a relaxing spot to take a break.

Conclusion

In 2023, Sunrise Mart continues to thrive in New York, even though the Japanese community has shrunk since the pandemic. Once a supermarket catering almost exclusively to Japanese expats, it has now become an internationally loved grocery store.

Whether you’re craving a Japanese bento, shopping for imported groceries, or just curious about Japanese food culture in NYC, Sunrise Mart is a must-visit.

Hazardous Waste Disposal NYC: Event Details

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Every year, New York City holds special events to safely collect hazardous household waste.

We are not allow to leave hazardous trash outside of your building. This article explains how to properly dispose of these materials through the NYC Sanitation SAFE Disposal Event, held twice a year.

What Is the SAFE Disposal Event?

The SAFE Disposal Event (Solvents, Automotive, Flammables & Electronics) is organized by the NYC Department of Sanitation (DSNY) twice a year. More Details

Every year, New York Residents receive a postcard notification about one month before the event.

For example, if you live in Upper Manhattan, your event location might be near Columbia University’s Teachers College – but the location is changeable every year.

What Can You Bring?

You can bring various household hazardous materials, including:

Automotive products: motor oil, transmission fluid, car batteries
Expired medicines or chemicals: including cosmetics and nail polish
Sharps (needles/syringes): place them in a labeled sharps container or a tightly closed metal can
Thermometers and batteries
Household cleaners and chemicals: bleach, pesticides, paint, Ajax, toilet cleaners, etc.
Compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs)
Electronics: computers, televisions, and broken devices

Important: Do not mix items together. Make sure that you make double-bagged with absorbent material like paper towels or newspaper.

What Happens at the Event

You will see multiple tents at the site. Staff and volunteers guide participants on where to drop off each type of item. Smoking or open flames are strictly prohibited for safety reasons.

The DSNY team also provides information pamphlets and eco-friendly shopping bags made from recycled materials. If you want to responsibly dispose of leftover paint, chemicals, or electronics, this is the perfect opportunity.

Don’t Throw Electronics in the Trash!

Throwing away computers or batteries in your building’s trash area can result in fines.
These must be dropped off at SAFE events or through official recycling programs.
After collection, electronics are sent to facilities like ERI for proper dismantling and refurbishing.

NYC’s Goal: Zero Waste to Landfill by 2030

For decades, New York City sent its trash to the Fresh Kills landfill in Staten Island.
After it closed, waste was redirected to other states like New Jersey, leading to environmental issues such as water pollution and unpleasant odors.

Now, NYC is working toward its ambitious “Zero Waste by 2030” goal.
Participating in programs like SAFE Disposal is a vital step toward a cleaner, greener city.

For Business Owners: Tax Benefits

If you operate a business in NYC, you can benefit from city-sponsored sustainability programs such as:

ecycleNYC
refashionNYC
DonateNYC
I Pledge Zero Waste

These not only support the environment but may also provide tax-saving opportunities.

Summary

Properly disposing of hazardous waste is crucial for keeping New York City clean and safe.
The SAFE Disposal Event only happens twice a year, so mark your calendar early and don’t miss it!

Unlike Japan, New York’s waste disposal rules are more relaxed, so it’s up to each resident to act responsibly. Together, we can help NYC move closer to a zero-waste future

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Affordable Sushi in New York: Yasaka on the Upper West Side

Discovering Sushi Yasaka

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

One of my favorite go-to sushi spots in New York is Sushi Yasaka. It has been around for years and is always popular—so popular that walking in without a reservation can be risky. Located just off 72nd Street on the Upper West Side, it’s less than a five-minute walk from the nearest subway station.

If you ever think, “I’m craving sushi tonight”, Yasaka is the perfect choice. The prices are incredibly reasonable, and the quality is much better than many chain restaurants—dare I say, even tastier than Kura Sushi, without breaking the bank.

Curious? You can check their official website for the latest menu and reservations.

Where Is Sushi Yasaka Located?

Sushi Yasaka is located on the north side of West 72nd Street, in Manhattan’s Upper West Side. The location is easy to access and makes it a convenient stop for sushi lovers in the neighborhood.

Yasaka’s Famous Affordable Omakase

Before the pandemic, Yasaka offered a 12-piece omakase set with a toro-taku roll for just $45. After some changes, the restaurant now features a mini omakase at only $33.

Not only is the sushi delicious, but the appetizers served beforehand are also flavorful and thoughtfully prepared. The portion size is just right—satisfying without being overwhelming.

Fresh Fish, Tasty Appetizers, and More

Alt="small vegetable dish at Sushi Yasaka"

On my last visit, I ordered more than I planned—sashimi deluxe, omakase, and several appetizers. The turnover here is quick, which means the fish is always fresh.

Compared to Kura Sushi, Yasaka might feel slightly pricier, but the quality is worth it. Of course, it can’t quite match the old-school Edokko-style sushi in Japan, but in New York, Yasaka definitely counts as one of the better and most satisfying sushi restaurants.

The only catch? Reservations are a must. Without one, you might end up waiting a long time.

And if you’re looking for another high-quality sushi experience in New York, add Tsumo Omakase to your list!

Final Thoughts

For fresh, affordable, and truly satisfying sushi in New York, Sushi Yasaka is a gem. With its cozy location on the Upper West Side, fair pricing, and consistently fresh fish, it’s no surprise the restaurant is always busy.

Whether you’re a local or visiting, Yasaka is the kind of sushi spot that will leave you happy, full, and already planning your next visit.

Why the U.S. I-94 Travel Record Matters: My Experience with Green Card and Visa Applications

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

Losing an I-94 Form Can Change Everything

Not long ago, a friend of mine was preparing her green card application when she realized something terrible—she had lost her I-94 Form, the U.S. entry and exit record. Even worse, it was from before 2015, back when the I-94 was a white paper card stapled to your passport.

Today, I-94 records are available online, but only for the past five years. Older records? You’re on your own.

In her case, there was even a gap in her travel history. She had to prove exactly when she had entered the U.S. Luckily, I had entered with her years ago. I wrote a detailed statement about that day, had it notarized, and mailed it to her as supporting evidence. I can only hope it helps her case.

This experience reminded me how important the I-94 truly is—not just a piece of paper or a digital file, but a document that can decide your future in the U.S.

What Exactly Is the I-94 Form?

The I-94 is an official U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) record that shows:

The date you entered the U.S.
The country you traveled from (Japan, China, etc.)
Your authorized period of stay

Before 2015, the I-94 was a physical white slip of paper, often carelessly stapled into passports. After 2015, CBP moved the system online. Now you can retrieve your travel history electronically—but remember, the system only stores the last five years.

Why the I-94 Is So Important

You may be surprised how often this little record is needed:

Green card (permanent residency) applications – USCIS often asks for it.
Visa renewals – I personally had to provide copies of my old paper I-94s.
University procedures – students must show entry and exit records every time they travel abroad.
Proof of legal entry – if there are questions about your status, this record can protect you.

In short: without your I-94, you may not be able to prove you are in the U.S. legally.

How to Get Your I-94 Record

If you entered after 2015, the process is simple: go to the official CBP website, enter your passport details, and download your record for free.

But if your entries were before 2015, things get complicated. You may need to show alternative documents or provide sworn statements, like my friend did. That’s why keeping every document safe is so important.

Final Thoughts

Living in another country means respecting its rules—and keeping track of your records. The U.S. I-94 travel record may seem small, but it can have a huge impact on your future.

Whether you are applying for a student visa, an artist visa, or a green card, remember: your I-94 is proof that you entered the U.S. legally. Keep it safe, and know how to access it when needed.

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Is the Japan Rail Pass Worth It in 2025? A Complete Guide for American Travelers

What is the Japan Rail Pass?

The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) –Website-is a special ticket designed for foreign tourists. It allows unlimited travel on most JR trains — including Shinkansen (bullet trains) — within a set period (7, 14, or 21 days). However, note that it cannot be used on Nozomi or Mizuho services. Seat reservations are possible, which is especially useful during peak seasons.

For travelers who want to explore Japan by train, this pass can be a convenient option. But with the major price increase in October 2023, many are asking: is it still worth it in 2025?

Latest Japan Rail Pass Prices (2025)

As of 2025, the official JR Pass prices are:

7-day Ordinary: ¥50,000 (~$330)
14-day Ordinary: ¥80,000 (~$535)
21-day Ordinary: ¥100,000 (~$670)

Green Car (First Class):

7-day: ¥70,000
14-day: ¥110,000
21-day: ¥140,000

💡 Note: USD amounts depend on the exchange rate.

When Does the JR Pass Make Sense?

For American travelers, the pass is most valuable if you:

Plan multi-city travel: Tokyo → Kyoto → Hiroshima → Osaka.
Take several long-distance rides within a short time.
Want the freedom to hop on and off JR trains without buying separate tickets.

Example:

Tokyo → Kyoto round-trip (~$220)
Kyoto → Hiroshima (~$90)
Hiroshima → Tokyo (~$180)
Total = ~$490 → A 7-day JR Pass ($330) saves you money.

When the JR Pass May Not Be Worth It

If you mainly stay in one city (Tokyo, Osaka).
If your trip is slow-paced with limited long-distance travel.
If regional passes (like Kansai or JR East) cover your itinerary more cheaply.

Buying the JR Pass in the U.S.

You must purchase the pass before arriving in Japan. In New York and other U.S. cities, you can buy from travel agencies such as:

Amnet
HIS
IACE Travel

Some agencies may offer slightly cheaper prices in USD. For example, one traveler bought a 7-day pass via Amnet for $220, picking it up directly at their Manhattan office.

Special Case: Japanese Nationals Living Abroad

Though intended for foreign tourists, some Japanese nationals abroad can qualify if they:

Hold a U.S. Green Card for 10+ years (valid only for U.S., Canada, Brazil).
Provide a Certificate of Overseas Residence proving 10 years abroad.
Submit a copy of the Residence Registration (在留届の写し) from the Japanese consulate.

If you don’t meet these, you may not be eligible.

Tips for Using the JR Pass

Activate wisely: Start your pass on the day of your first long-distance trip.
Reserve seats: Shinkansen can get crowded, especially during holidays.
Bring documents: Passport is always required when using the pass.
Compare costs: Sometimes, regional passes or single tickets are cheaper.

Conclusion

The Japan Rail Pass remains one of the most convenient ways to explore Japan — but after the 2023 price increase, it’s not always the automatic money-saver it once was. For Americans planning to visit multiple cities, it can still offer great value. The key is to calculate your route costs and decide if the pass is right for you.

Apple Card 2025: Features, Savings, APR, and How to Open an Account

Apple Card 2025: Features, Savings, APR, and How to Open an Account.

Apple Card isn’t just a credit card — it’s part of Apple’s growing financial ecosystem, created in partnership with Goldman Sachs. In 2023, Apple launched its Apple Card Savings account, offering competitive interest rates for iPhone users. As of January 2024, the APY reached 4.5%, higher than typical U.S. bank savings accounts.

Update 2026 – 3.4%

In this guide, we’ll cover everything about Apple Card in 2025: credit card features, Daily Cash, APR, savings account setup, pros/cons, and practical tips for maximizing interest and rewards.

Key Updates for 2025

Variable APR: 18.24%–28.49% depending on creditworthiness (check Wallet app for your exact rate).
Apple Card Savings APY: 4.5% as of early 2024; slightly lower than peak 2023 rates but still competitive.
Issuer news: Goldman Sachs continues to issue Apple Card; JPMorgan Chase has been reported in talks to potentially take over the portfolio, though nothing is finalized.
Regulatory matters: Apple and Goldman Sachs have faced CFPB enforcement actions regarding transaction and dispute handling.

Apple Card Features

Daily Cash

Cash back is credited daily depending on the merchant and payment method:

3% on Apple purchases
2% with Apple Pay
1% on physical card purchases

Apple Card Monthly Installments (ACMI)

0% APR financing for eligible Apple products. Taxes/shipping may not be included. Standard APR applies if not using ACMI.

Family & Co-ownership

Share an Apple Card with up to five family members, allowing credit building and limit management.

How to Open an Apple Card Savings Account

Apple Card holders in the U.S. can open a savings account with up to 4.5% APY, FDIC-insured via Goldman Sachs. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Requirements

Latest iOS version (16.4.1 or newer)
Apple device
U.S. residency

2. Daily Cash Selection

Open Wallet → tap Apple Card → More Options → Daily Cash → next screen.

3. Setup Screen

Tap Set Up → Continue → Agree to Terms and Conditions
Answer tax-related questions correctly

4. Linking Bank Accounts

Add cash from linked bank account
Withdraw to any U.S. bank no fee

5. Deposit Limits

Single deposit: $10,000
7-day cumulative: $20,000
Max balance: $250,000 (excluding Daily Cash or earned interest)

6. Interest Growth

Interest compounds monthly
Daily Cash can be automatically deposited into savings
Small deposits can add up to substantial interest over time

FDIC Coverage

Goldman Sachs membership ensures deposits are protected in case of bank failure.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Seamless Apple ecosystem integration
Daily Cash is convenient
No annual or foreign transaction fees

Cons

High APR for carried balances
Savings APY decreased slightly in 2025
Regulatory and issuer uncertainty

Practical Tips

Use ACMI for eligible Apple products to enjoy 0% financing
Pay balances in full to avoid high APR
Deposit Daily Cash into Apple Savings for compounding interest
Monitor deposit limits to maximize interest growth

Who Should Get Apple Card

Best for: iPhone users who pay their balance in full, value Daily Cash, and want excellent Wallet integration.
Not recommended for: People who carry balances and want the lowest APR or balance transfer options.

Summary

Apple Card 2025 combines a modern credit card with high-yield Apple Savings, Daily Cash rewards, and strong ecosystem integration. While Japanese users cannot open accounts yet, U.S.-based Apple users can enjoy convenience, FDIC protection, and competitive interest rates. Use Daily Cash strategically to build savings and maximize rewards over time.