A true aristocrat of the keyboard, whose playing combines elegance, clarity, and electrifying power. A native of California, Mr. Nakamatsu came to international attention in 1997 when he was named Gold Medalist of the Tenth Van Cliburn International Piano Competitionthe only American to have achieved this distinction since 1981. He has performed widely in North and South America, Europe, and the Far East. He also performed at a White House concert hosted by President and Mrs. Clinton.
This concert is the official launch of the new Steinway nine foot Grand Piano that the Kahilu was able to purchase at the end of last year after a successful fundraising drive. Reverend Danny Akaka will open the evening with a blessing for the new Piano.
Mr. Nakamatsu is performing in collaboration with The Spring Wind Quintet from Honolulu. An ensemble of Chamber Music Hawaii, The Spring Wind Quintet is recognized as one of the country’s leading wind quintets, and has been a major force in the development of chamber music in Hawaii. The Spring Wind Quintet is Susan McGinn on Flute, J. Scott Janusch on Oboe, James Moffitt on Clarinet, Marsha Schweitzer on Bassoon and Mathew Berliner on French Horn.
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