Chiharu Takei
With a network of Artist Centres and Ateliers around the world, Yamaha works with leading players to support their performances and develop instrument designs and new ideas for the benefit of all musicians. Yamaha Artists share with us a passion for inspiring the next generation of players, and a belief that everybody should be encouraged to nurture their talent, connect with others and tell their stories through music.
Get to know Yamaha Artist and Percussion Player Chiharu Takei
Statement about your relation with Yamaha or your instrument:
When I play Marimba, my soul feels connected to nature and the world. Marimba allways made me happy. I want to make happines to audience by my marimba music. Yamaha Marimba is always by my side.
How would you characterise your instrument?
It has a wide range of expressive qualities, from sparkling and brilliant high notes, to deep and rich low notes, round and soft, transparent and clear, to sharp and cutting sounds.. Yamaha marimba sings naturally and richly and has a beautiful wood sound.
Who was your most influential teacher and is there any advice which you still follow?
Prof. Keiko Abe. Commission work, her's own compositions and instrument development with Yamaha. Without her, today's marimba music would not exist. Influenced by her strong aspirations, I have come to want to become a 'marimbist who can share the excitement of music with the audience through the marimba'.
Advice for a young musician:
To experience a lot. And to take in everything you feel with your whole body. That is the energy and expression of life. And practice every day.
