The Springfield violinists, performed for a sold-out audience in Kyoto, Japan, in June with their quartet, Ensemble Ohio. It also took on an extra special meaning.
“Kyoto is our mother’s hometown and the ancient capital city of Japan,” said Kanako, a senior at the College Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati. “We performed in the Museum of Kyoto, a very unique and beautiful space that was formerly a bank.”
Ensemble Ohio also included violist Emily Voto and Ruruko Makino, a professional Japanese cellist and former Ohio resident. They first came together in 2011 to play a series of concerts in Ohio to benefit the victims of the Japanese tsunami and earthquake, with proceeds going to the Japanese Red Cross.
This time the setting was switched and the program different.
“Our goal was to share the American approach of classical music to the students, musicians and music lovers of Japan,” said Kanako.
Their program included works representing America, including “American String Quartet” by Dvorak, “Souvenir d’ Amerique” by Vieuxtemps and “It Ain’t Necessarily So” by George and Ira Gershwin.
The original idea for the show was for grandparents, family and close friends who had never seen them perform live in a concert setting.
Koshin and Noriko Shimasaki of Springfield are the girls’ parents.
Kanako said the audience was enthusiastic and the experience was unforgettable and they were thankful for the support of several groups, including the people of Springfield.
The summer only got better when Mariko, a sophomore at the Julliard School, was awarded the Yamaha Young Performing Artist of 2014. Kanako earned the same honor in 2013.
About the Author