Eugene Watanabe and his wife Dr. Vera Watanabe, were the founders of the Gifted Music School, a non-profit educational institution in Salt Lake City committed to defining the standard for high level music education. As artistic director he leads a synergistic team of faculty, administrators, students and parents, and donors. As a music educator, Watanabe’s students have regularly gained acceptance to the top music programs in the country including Juilliard, Colburn, New England Conservatory, Cleveland, Michigan, San Francisco, Peabody, and Manhattan. His students have been frequently recognized at national solo and chamber competitions as well as international events. Watanabe achieved a rare double win at the 2019 MTNA Nationals in Spokane having taught the 1st place awardees in both the Junior High and High School categories.