Hiko Sakamoto

Plays Friday, October 9, at 9:45 am Running order

Nishinomiya, Japan · software engineer

Born in Japan, Hiko began studying piano at age four under his mother’s guidance before moving to the U.S. at six. Over a decade of focused study, he earned top placements in regional competitions, including second place in the Florida State MTA Concerto Competition. While formal lessons ended at 16 followed by a 20-year hiatus after high school, his relationship with the piano came full circle in 2021 upon watching the International Chopin Piano Competition. Inspired to return, he sought a more mature perspective and approach to his practice, learning the majority of his Chopin repertoire after 40. Today, playing piano provides a fulfilling outlet alongside his engineering career and family as he shares his journey on social media.

First Programme

Chopin – Nocturne in C-sharp minor, Op. 27, No. 1Chopin – Étude in C major, Op. 10, No. 1Chopin – Ballade No. 2 in F major, Op. 38

Second Programme

Chopin – Polonaise in F-sharp minor, Op. 44Chopin – Waltz in A-flat major, Op. 42Chopin – Ballade No. 4 in F minor, Op. 52

Schedule

Friday, October 9, at 9:45 am, in Session 1. The full running order is on the schedule page.

Ian RoyJonathan Shih