On September 6, 2026, I was honored to perform as a guest at the 4th Annual Recital of TAKOHACHI & Kotori Kai Shamisen.

The recital featured a wonderful variety of traditional Japanese music and dance, including taiko, shinobue, Tsugaru shamisen, dance, and folk songs.

Several pieces I composed for piano were also performed. I was especially happy to share the stage with my twin sons.

In September 2026, I was featured in an interview for the “My Turning Point” section of Lighthouse Seattle & Portland.

Looking back on my journey so far, I was reminded once again of the many wonderful connections that music has brought into my life. I feel truly grateful and fortunate to be where I am today.

I hope you enjoy reading the interview.

In early June, the 5th Nozomi Music School Recital was held at Rolling Hills Community Church.

Alongside Yumi Torimaru and Kohei Kimura, we were delighted to welcome several young guest performers, who gave wonderful performances and made the event truly special.

As a cherished annual tradition, all of the students came together at the end of the recital to sing “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” as a choir, bringing the day to a joyful and heartwarming close.

Every year, the Japanese Chamber of Commerce organizes a community clean-up at the Japanese cemetery, and our family is grateful to take part in this meaningful tradition.

The video documenting this year’s activities features “Fiery Saltation,” a piece created by Yumi Torimaru of Takohachi, with piano composition by Nozomi.

We hope you enjoy both the music and the spirit of community that this annual event celebrates.

On March 29th, in celebration of Piano Day, I performed “Sakura Fantasia” at Pioneer Square.

It was a Sounds Truck NW event, and I had such a wonderful time performing among people who love the piano.

Wearing a cherry blossom–colored kimono, I brought a touch of spring and scattered sakura across downtown. 

On April 18, we performed at the PSU Farmer’s Market for the Sound Truck NW event.

The set featured a unique collaboration: Yumi Torimaru on shinobue and shamisen, and myself on vocals and piano. We enjoyed sharing a variety of songs with the wonderful market crowd.

Thank you to everyone who joined us!

Maido Mind is now in its 5th year, expanding our reach beyond our monthly residency at the Portland Japanese Garden. We invite you to join us for our 2026 performances on the following dates:

2026 Dates: Jan 9, Feb 13, Mar 13, Apr 17, May 8, Jun 12, Jul 24, Aug 7, Sep 18, Oct 2, Nov 13

On February 27, Maido Mind had the pleasure of performing at Mitch Charter Elementary School.

We played a variety of songs familiar to the students, and their energy was incredible. It was a joy to see them so engaged, filling the room with enthusiastic cheers and applause.

Thank you to the students and staff for such a warm welcome!

At the end of April, I introduced Japanese culture at “Multicultural Night” held at Sherwood High School. I performed the well-known piece “Sakura” with singing and piano, sharing the beautiful, distinctly Japanese sound with the audience.