Reiko Yamada

ARTIST INFORMATION

Meet the Musician

Where were you born?

Japan

Where did you study? Who did you study under?

Roosevelt, Chicago College of Performing Arts (Master degrees): Dr Lazar Ludmila (Pf), Dr. David Schrader (Harpsichord & Organ) / DePaul University (Certificate program in Piano Performance): Mrs. Mary Sauer (Pf), Roger Goodman (harpsichord)

When did you first discover your instrument? How old were you?

My elder sister had been taking piano lessons, and naturally, I started piano lesson at 4 years old after her.

How did you come to be with the KSO? What is your best memory here?

I took an audition for the principal keyboard in 1995. I performed “Ritmica Ostinata for Piano and Orchestra by Akira Ifukube” with the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra under maestro Raymond Harvey in 2008, and we received a huge round of applause, with most of the audience standing on their feet.

Who is a musician/mentor who inspires you? What makes them special?

Akira Ifukube, a Japanese composer who was president of the Tokyo College of Music. Maestro Ifukube’s wisdom, which encompasses not only music but also philosophy, including Taoism, will serve as important guidance for me as I strive to be better musician and human being.

What is your favorite piece you’ve ever played? What did it feel like to play?

Ritmica Ostinata for Piano and Orchestra by Ifukube (When I play this piece I am filled with an abundant spiritual force, soul, and vitality). I also love to play Stravinsky’s “Petrushka,” Chopin’s piano pieces, Ravel and Debussy’s compositions, and J.S. Bach’s works. (Those pieces touch my soul and uplift my sprit.)

What do you love most about Kalamazoo? What are your hobbies/interests outside of the music world?

My colleagues, both musicians and staff, are wonderful people with warm hearts.

Walk in nature / Eat good, healthy foods