Sweet little girl

During a piano practice session, Kazuyo Kotaka talks about her relationship with the audience, not only during concerts but also in everyday life.

Photo, video and words: Lorenzo Morandi

Kazuyo was born in Kamaishi, in Northern Japan. It was here, at the age of four, that she dedicated her life to studying piano. After graduating with honours from the University of Music in Showa, she moved to Italy to continue her studies at the Conservatory in Alessandria. Since graduating in 2005 she has won numerous prizes. This intense period of growth and improvement involved constant travel from one part of the world to another. From Italy to Japan, two different and contrasting cultures, to perform as a soloist and with others. This period was infused with a love for European classical music and an absolute devotion to the masters of the piano, so important to her own development as an artist.

“I want to be fierce, not come across as a sweet little girl. My hands must speak alongside me; my movements shouldn't resemble those of a sweet little girl.” Kazuyo Kotaka says as she practices the piano in her apartment. For her, it's crucial that the performance is flawless, even if it means practicing and rehearsing each passage repeatedly. it's also essential for her also the self-image she conveys to those who observe her: while she plays, but also in her everyday gestures.

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