Dr. Ocean Akaka
Assistant Director of Athletic Bands

Dr. Ocean Akaka is the Assistant Director of the UNLV Star of Nevada Marching Band. In addition to the marching band, Dr. Akaka leads the UNLV Runnin' Rebel Pep Band, directs the UNLV Woodwind Ensemble, teaches courses in woodwind techniques, and graduate conducting courses. Prior to his current appointment, Dr. Akaka served as a Doctoral Graduate Assistant with the UNLV Division of Wind Band Studies, where he assisted with all operations within the program. Currently, Dr. Akaka remains active as a drill designer and music arranger. His arrangements have garnered performances throughout the United States and Europe.

 

Originally from Hawaiˋi, Dr. Akaka is an in-demand educator and clinician with guest conducting appearances and oboe masterclasses at various venues throughout the islands and the continental United States. As an oboist, Akaka served as an Army Bandsman with “Hawaii’s Own” 111th Army Band based out of Pearl City, HI. During his time with The 111th Army Band, in addition to playing the oboe in the concert band, he played trumpet in the rock combo group “Drive On,” euphonium in the ceremonial marching band, and also served as a guest conductor of the concert band. Outside of his duties with the band, Akaka actively served with The Hawaiˋi Army National Guard’s Honor Guard team where he assisted with Military Funeral Honors as a

ceremonial team member and live bugler. Akaka’s military decorations include: The Army Achievement Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster and The Army Reserve Component Achievement

Medal.

 

Dr. Akaka holds degrees from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (D.M.A., M.M., Wind Band

Conducting) and the University of Hawaiˋi at Mānoa (B.A. Music, Oboe Performance).