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World-renowned pianist Martha Argerich recently sat down to enjoy a special conversation with digital instrument ambassador for CASIO, Japanese pianist Hayato Sumino.
This meeting took place following Ms. Argerich's performance with the Hiroshima Symphony Orchestra, which marked their first collaboration for five years.
As she took time to reflect on the performance, Ms. Argerich said, "I feel a special connection with Hiroshima. Playing with the Hiroshima Symphony Orchestra is always a pleasant experience, and this time was no exception.
She continued by sharing a number of her memorable experiences and meaningful moments that she's had in Hiroshima, in particular the story of "Akiko's Piano," which has left a lasting impression on her."Akiko's Piano" is a uniquely rare instrument that survived during the war and still remains playable to this day. Ms. Argerich recalled the rollercoaster of emotions she felt when performing Ravel's Jeux d'eau on this piano: "Touching it and feeling its historical background first hand was heart-wrenching—it was an emotional and unforgettable experience." Mr. Sumino echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the historical significance of the piano, "It's truly a treasure from the past that has been carefully preserved."
However, Ms. Argerich's connection to Japan extends beyond just Hiroshima. In 2015, the Shiiki Argerich House was completed in Beppu City, Oita Prefecture, and was created with the aim of becoming “A Home for Musicians”. It continues to contribute to her artistic endeavors to this day.
The construction of this house was made possible thanks to generous donations from the late Masakazu Shiiki, honorary director of the Argerich Arts Foundation. It features an impressive music hall inspired by European salon culture. Ms. Argerich considers it as not only a space for musical practice but also as a place to enjoy peace and solace. She described it as "a place where we can share peace through the joy of music," so it continues to hold a profound meaning for her.
The Shiiki Argerich House is also home to one of CASIO’s digital pianos, the CELVIANO. Ms. Argerich was full of praise for how it beautifully harmonizes with the grand piano that’s already housed there.
This digital piano has now become an essential part of the space. Mr. Sumino also uses a CASIO digital piano at home, and he expressed his delight at this shared commonality, saying, "It’s wonderful to have something like this in common."
Ms. Argerich highlighted the merits of the digital piano, saying, "It's especially useful when you don’t want to play loudly. I’m a night owl, so I appreciate being able to practice late at night. It’s also fantastic being able to practice on such a high-quality keyboard. Sometimes you want to play with a softer sound, and this piano allows you to express that beautifully."
She further remarked how the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a renewed appreciation for digital pianos. Many people began learning to play piano while staying at home, with a significant number of them opting to use digital pianos to practice. Ms. Argerich emphasized the important role that digital pianos play in the continuing evolution of music culture.
Even in the midst of their busy schedules, this was an excellent opportunity for a reunion between Ms. Argerich and Mr. Sumino, and allowed them to reminisce in a warm and relaxed atmosphere. Their shared passion for music, which is deeply rooted in their joint connection to Japan, continues to inspire and touch hearts across the globe.
