Among the genres of classical music that delights Tomoko is
the waltz. That love also reflects Tomoko’s enjoyment of dancing. Even her high
school’s physical education program included dance-like activity.
Waltzes, in particular, have played a significant role in
Tomoko’s life.
Tomoko met
her future husband at a Hungarian society ball in San Francisco. Desy was
sitting with a group of bachelors when he was introduced to Tomoko, although
Tomoko wasn’t looking for a husband. Her first impression of him was positive
though. “He is the most handsome fellow of the group,” she decided, “and
he dances well,” as she recalled the ballroom waltzes.
Tomoko’s
daughter Beata also enjoys waltzes. Tomoko remembers when Beata wanted to quit
skating at age nine. Tomoko aw that the rink had group lessons. Beata thought
that group dancing was fun. “I love waltzing,” she said. Beata went on to win medals
for her ice dancing, and both performs and coaches ice dancing.
Tomoko has
played the piano waltzes of several composers: Chopin, Liszt, Schubert, and Poulenc.
Among the waltzes that Tomoko enjoys playing is Shostakovich’s
“Valse-Scherzo.” Russian Dmitri Shostakovich was one of the major composers of
the twentieth century. Even as a child, Dmitra showed a gift for the piano and music
in general. At age 13 he entered the Petrograd Music Conservatory, and he wrote
his first symphony at age 19. Much of his work was theatrical, and he was known
for his film music. Nevertheless, he also wrote for the piano, including waltzes.
Tomoko’s performances of waltzes showcase her flowing
movement and romantic undertones.
