November 2, 2019

The Golden Spring of 1965

Spring 1965 was a golden season for Tomoko in her musical life.

In February she was featured on KTVU television channel, playing one of her winning pieces from the San Francisco Symphony Foundation Audition program. She was chosen by Maestro Josef Krips for her impeccible performance.

In the same month she made her Peninsula debut at Foothill College in Appreciation. She was sponsored by Japanese Searking Society of America.

In March she performed with the Fresno Philharmonic Orchestra in Roosevelt High School's auditorium. She won the 1965 Young Artists Award, along with baritone David Tenbrook and violinist Kodjian). These awards were made possible by the Fresno Philharmonic Orchestra and the Junior League of Fresno.

In April Tomoko performed with two violinists, Kathleen Lenski and Linda Ashworth in San Francisco's Auditorium. Their concert was one of the musical series sponsored by the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra and its Association Foundation for its members.

Then in June Tomoko played at her own graduation, followed by her graduation recital two weeks later.

This season was indeed propitious, and foretold Tomoko's energy and dedication to the piano. Her spirit has not faded over the years.