Letters from 1998
- Kris, Dennis, Dave and Danielle, Jan 99
- Alicia, Jan 99
- Paul, Feb 99
- dlj, Feb 99
- James, Apr 99
- Larry, Apr 99
- Dale & Gloria, Apr 99
- Janet, May 99
- name withheld, May 99
- Steve, May 99
- Scott, June 99
- Ralph & Nancy, June 99
- Don & June, June 99
- name withheld, June 99
- Cindy, July 99
- Jay, Aug 99
- Janina and Liz, Aug 99
- Caitlyn, Aug 99
- Stephen, Oct 99
- John, Oct 99
- Suzanne and Rachael, Nov 99
- Jean-Yves and Gloria, Nov 99
- Janell, Nov 99
- Jerry, Dec 99
- Andy and Kim, Dec 99
- Ken and Joy, Dec 99
Dear Keiko and Kazu,
Many happy blessings for you and yours during this new year. I got my husband and I your CD, "No Borders" for Christmas, we love it, my daughter especially loves "Kappa" and I told her the story of the elves that you told us at your concert at Scullers in Boston. She is in gymnastics and plans to use your music sometime soon in her routines. She and her brother loved to listen to "Safari" while we were living in New Orleans and did not know it was you back then, and they love dancing in our living room to it! They are very happy with music as their Dad plays piano, he writes and plays. I love putting your music on while on my computer, it soothes my heart and soul. We love the pictures of your children on your web page and your song, "Forever, Forever" is so poetic for children, they really don't know what they say sometimes but in their hearts, their soul trully comes out, in your case, I believe this is what happens. They are very fortunate to have someone so talented and so blessed to have someone with a passion for piano and music as you and your husband does. We frequently hear Kazu's instrument in movies and we look at each other and smile when we hear it. We are looking forward to seeing you in Providence and hope to bring our children with us this time so they can meet you in person. Thanks so much for your contribution to the music world. Take care and glad you had such a nice holiday, God bless you all and see you soon!!!!
In Him - Kris, Dennis, Dave and Danielle
Keiko,
I know that with so many fans, you probably don't have enough time to personally read and write to every person who e-mails you, but that is OK. My life has changed dramatically in the last year or so. I was into some pretty horrible music and my parents always told me that music affected the way that I live and act. I never believed them, until now, that is. I was losing friends and communication with my family when this was going on. I prayed and God answered my prayer. I didn't quite like the answer, but it was the only way. I looked for a new radio station and found 98.9 KWJZ, located in Seattle, WA. I didn't quite like what I heard at first. Your song "Sapphire" came on and I was instantly transformed. I had never heard anything like it and I was instantly addicted to Jazz music from that point on. When I started listening to Jazz, my life started to gradually heighten. It still grows as I grow. Instead of becoming sadder and sadder each day, I became a cheerful teenager who forgot how to cry tears of pain. You are the artist that I look up to and could only dream to be like. I want to be a musician someday, but I must be patient. I also must make a choice. What instrument would I like to major at? Music has become my life and everything I do revolves around music. I play clarinet, trumpet, flute, saxophone, guitar, bass guitar, and the drums. Of the first six, which one? I could never dream of giving up any instrument but my dad and my band teacher tell me that I should pick one and stick with it, or I will never play any one instrument TRULY well. I am no piano player but I always dream of becoming "Keiko Matsui!" I am only a teenager at the age of 15, but I believe that even the young can fall in love...I have fallen in love with music. Thank you Keiko. My friends at school think that I am weird, but do they truly know the meaning of beautiful music?
Love always - Alicia
Dear Keiko and Kazu:
I wish to convey my sincere appreciation for the beautiful and artistic music that you have given to the world, myself, and my family. I have followed your music for several years now on WSJZ, "Smooth Jazz", in Boston and own 5 of your CDs so far.
I have been wanting to express my humble thoughts and thanks to you
since seeing you perform in person at Boston's Copley Square in August
1998, and at Scullers Jazz Club in September 1998. However the demands
of a very busy work schedule have prevented me from writing to you until
now. Last night my wife, 14 year old son, and I watched your PBS video,
"Light Above The Trees" and I cannot describe the wonderful feeling and
sense of joy watching your
performance. Keiko, your talent is a gift to life itself.
Keiko and Kazu, your talents are truly a gift from God and have brought me an inner sense of peace and a new vision of life. To admire the beauty around us and to help others in need. I thank you very much for your beautiful gift and wish you continued success and, more importantly, happiness and a healthy life for your entire family, especially your two lovely daughters.
From my family to yours, may the blessings of life be with you always.
Sincerely - Paul Oliveira
P.S. My family and I were waiting by the restaurant at Scullers
while you were there also waiting. Realizing the difficulty you may have
at times in seeking a moment of privacy, I chose to just say hello in passing
and respect your time of relaxation before your outstanding performance.
Kazu, I hope you found the lobster to your liking. My wish is that you
return to Boston again someday soon.
Kazu,
Wow! Time No Longer is a hidden treasure!
More people must hear this wealth; what a truly powerful message. I just love it.
dlj
Hello to you and your family,
My two sons and I saw your performance in Salt Lake City last year and truly enjoyed the show. Kazu, I admire the passion you have for your instrument and your music. Keiko, I'm sure you don't remember but after the concert when you were signing autographs, a little boy came up to you and asked you to sign his ticket stub. He was embarassed because everyone else had one of your CD's to sign but we did not buy one since we were unable to use a credit card and I was short on cash. He did not think that you would sign the ticket stub but when his turn came, you signed it and talked with him for a moment. That little boy is my youngest son, Alex. He is 9 years old and is a piano prodigy. He proudly displays your framed autograph on his grand piano. I think it helps to inspire him when he is practicing Bach or Mozart. He loves the piano and enjoyed your concert a great deal. He was so happy that you talked to him that he did not sleep much that night. Thank you for that moment....
I noticed that you are not coming to Utah this year? Is there any chance that you might come anyway. We would love to see you again. That reminds me; I was at work today when one of your songs came on the radio. I started telling everyone "That's Keiko Matsui!!"
I don't mean to bother you but do you have any advice for me to help my son develop his music potential. I am looking for information on how to find him a sponsor to help pay for better music teachers etc... Any advice will be greatly appreciated.
In closing let me just say that our entire family enjoys your music and look forward to seeing you again in the future.
Thank you so much - James
Thank you very much for the letter. We are back in Tokyo. We have toured in the midwest for 10 days with our children. It was nice to be back on the road again.Return to topIn Houston, we had lecture demonstrations to elementary school children and parents. This event was put by Yoli, who is music teacher at the Owens school there. You might be able to read about our relationship with her in the past newsletters on our web site.
It was Mako's (our 3 year old daughter) first tour. She was very excited about it. Every day different hotels, and different theaters. Japanese school new year starts in April. Maya is 5th grader now. Cherry blossom is beautiful in Tokyo. It is still little cold in morning, but spring has come.
We have completed Keiko's first live album and DVD in L.A. last month. The album is sounding great. It should be out in June. Kazu's Tribal Schubert will be out this month.
We are glad that our music met you and your son. We are not sure that we can come to Utah, but booking agent is always working on more concerts.
About your son's music lesson, we are not sure which way you want him to go. Our daughter Maya is 10 now and taking piano lesson, not from the special teacher, but from the lady happen to live in front of us. However, if she shows a lot of interests toward classical music, we might have looked for a different teacher. We think, the most important thing for children is to love good music, or good view of landscape or anything good. For us parents to show them the things we think beautiful is most important thing. If children get the feelings of world's beauty, the artistic things start growing in their mind, we guess.
Technical things are important, too. However, the appreciation toward many different beautiful things are most important, we think. So we do our best to show them beautiful things, keep smiling, hoping and praying.
See you soon -- Kazu and Keiko
Hello Keiko and Kazu,
Thank you for your kind note! It is nice to know that you are enjoying a well-deserved rest! I am sure that the demands of your profession are very extensive, but your work is very appreciated!
We are happy to say that our daughter's surgery was a complete success! The surgeon did not find the serious condition that he expected to find! He said that he is very surprised, and we are relieved! He does not expect her to experience any further problems! She is healing now, and Keiko's music is helping! I play one of her CDs almost every night!
We hope to see you soon! Enjoy your rest in Tokyo! Are the cherry blossoms in bloom? I wish that I could enjoy hanami! Take care, tell the kids and Keiko's mom hello, and we look forward to more great music from you both!! Thank you!!
Sincerely - Larry
Keiko and Kazu,
We purchased your video last week. Love it! My son was recently married and is now off in the Air Force. My daughter-in-law related yesterday that she was going to have a baby and surprised us with the name if she has a girl. My new grandchild will be called Keiko! Sorry Kazu, if it's a boy he'll be named Jonathan.
Keep on playing, you light up our lives!
Dale and Gloria
Hello,
I recently put a deposit down on the jazz cruise for November and will finish paying for it shortly. It is a 50th birthday present to my husband (he turns 50 on November 19). He is an extremely big fan of yours. He saw you last year when you played at the Birchmire (Northern Virginia just outside of Washington, D.C.) Him and his best friend went together. They are two extremely big fans of yours. They both have stressfull jobs, and your music helps them through so much. He has all but one of your CD's I think, and plays them constantly.
He has talked about you so frequently since then, and we've not been able to go to any other of your performances when you've been close by, so when I saw that you were going to be on this jazz cruise, I thought, what a perfect gift. I don't know how much you'll perform while on it, but even if it is only once, I know that if will make the whole crusie worthwhile. I think that going on this cruise and you performing is going to be one of the best presents I can give him. His best friend and his wife are also going with us, and they will be celebrating their 3rd anniversary at the same time.
Anyway, I just wanted to thank you for doing something that I think is going to make his birthday very special for him. He lost his older sister when she turned 51, and has been dreading turning 50 because of that, but ever since I planned this cruise, he is looking forward to both it and his birthday. Thank you so much, because he means the world to me. You are going to make this a special year for him.
Best wishes to you and your family.
Sincerely - Janet
I have just recently discovered Keiko and her music. I saw the PBS special early one Sunday morning. It was one of the most moving experiences in my life. The song "The Wind And The Wolf" is one of the most powerful songs I had ever heard. I just sat on my couch and cried. Never has anything touched me so deeply. I have given your CD's to several friends and family members. We are looking forward to many many more hours of listening pleasure. I will be at the concert in Laguna Niguel, CA the end of May. I know that I will not be disappointed.
Thanks for the great music...
Mahalo to Kazu, Keiko, Maya, Mako, and Mrs. Doi,
Since December of last year, I have had a front row (row 1 seat 8) ticket to see Keiko's performance at the Maui Music Fest. As you know, I've been to several of your shows and have travelled to Canada and Pennsylvania to see the performances.
I arrived in Maui last night at 9 p.m. Hawaiian time, after 17 hours of travel from Washington DC. I was so tired that I left my bag right inside the doorway and went to bed; it took a while to settle down, but two and a half hours later, finally fell asleep. I was awoken at 7:30 a.m. by a phone call from home--my father, who has been sick for quite some time, had passed away while I was in flight the day before. I made some phone calls, took a shower, and returned to the airport; I am now 35,000 feet over the Pacific Ocean en route back home, and listening to the song "A Drop of Water"...
Now, please understand that I don't write this to bring bad news, or looking for sympathy or anything like that from you--you are professionals and I am "just a fan", and I know that any hint of any other relationship is not appropriate. No, I write instead to write of strength and hope...the strength and hope you give through your gift of music. I'm sure you recall your performance this year at Constitution Hall with the Air Force band, when you were joined by Carl Anderson on stage to sing "A Drop of Water". I was so moved by the performance then, and now it brings special meaning....
So Saturday during your performance, if you happen to see an empty seat in the first row, it's me...back in my hometown, given strength by your gift of music...and being thankful that you share it with us.
Peace your entire family - Steve
P.S. I do have tickets to see you in June at Wolf Trap; those will be better circumstances I am sure.
Dear Keiko and Kazu,
I really enjoyed your newsletter. It's nice to see that such celebrities as yourselves live normal lives, quite similarly to your devoted listeners. You seem so down-to-earth and fun-loving. I am a devoted fan and was fortunate enough to attend your concert/lecture at the CyFalls High School back in March. My son is a student at Owens Elementary school and Mrs. Leger is his music teacher. I have, to some degree, immersed my son (Matt) in Keiko's music. He and his younger brother (Mark) really enjoy Dragon Wings. We sing along to it putting in our own words (actually, word...'Fly' during the reprise). Matt was quite excited during the concert when you played 'Doll', which have played for him quite often.
Kazu, you did a wonderful job of talking about music during the performance. It gave me a greater appreciation of the art and I'm sure a lot of the children were able to comprehend much of what you spoke of. I really enjoy the quite mystical instrument you play. I have two of your albums and find them quite fascinating. Of course, I have all of Keiko's albums (including the Collection CD). I have put together a cassette of my personal favorites from all of your CDs and play it almost constantly in my car. Your music is so elegant and soothing, although it can occasionally show some spunk and playfulness. It also has lots of charm. Keep up the great work. I can't wait to get your next release that you spoke of coming in June.
I was excited to read about your collaboration with Bob James. He is another artist I enjoy immensely. I have many of his albums, as well as those of Fourplay. I'm looking forward to obtaining that album as well. And, I definately want to get your video.
My summer is quite booked up for Jazz concert-going. I will be seeing Guitars and Saxes featuring Peter White, Kirk Whalum, Marc Antoine and Everette Harp at the end of this month. Then, hopefully, the Rippingtons in July; and, finally, Al Jarreau with Dave Koz and Chris Botti in August. A full summer of Jazz, but I'm hoping you will be returning to Houston in the near future for a longer concert. I would definitely be there along with several thousand other fans, for sure.
Well, thanks again for the delightful newsletter. I'd love to hear from you again soon.
Your fan forever forever - Scott
Keiko,
My wife and I just saw you at the Detroit concert in the park yesterday, Saturday, June 6th. All I can say is Wow. My dear wife got me connected with "new age jazz," and I can say you are the most talented piano player that I have ever listened to. That's not faint praise. I am 59 years old, and I've seen most of the great jazz piano players at one time or another, including Amad Jamal. I've always been a big fan of the more traditional jazz, because I love the hear the threads of a song that I recognize so I can appreciate the improvisation that is being played.
My wife and I lost our son in a car accident a few years back, and music like yours, so beautiful, and poetic really has a emotional impact on us. If you could have seen back about 30 rows you would have seen us crying through many of your songs. We will be looking forward to seeing you in concert again in our area. We will be the two old people sitting near the front with tears in our eyes.
Loved your show -- Ralph and Nancy
Hello Kazu And Keiko,
My wife and I saw your concert in Santa Rosa last night.This is our first concert since before we were married 21 years ago.We both enjoyed your music immensely.My wife was amazed as was I by Keiko's blazing speed with her fingers on the keyboards. I was worried at first that my wife would not enjoy this concert, as she does not like all the different jazz forms I enjoy, she is now a convert thanks to Keiko.I would like to thank you for enriching our lives with your music.
Sincerely -- Don & June
Greetings:
I am a 47-year old college educated Caucasian male living in the middle of the United States (Iowa). I manage a telemarketing center. For years, I would listen only to rock music. Then I saw your concert at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco on Public Television. Man! Was I hooked! I ordered the VCR tape (Light Above the Trees) and bought three CD's. My favorite CD is Dream Walk. I love Safari with Paul Taylor, also. Your sax player for the video is awesome as well.
I just wanted you to know you have a relatively new and fanatical fan in myself. I absolutely love your work. Keep it up please!
P.S. - Keiko, you are as lovely as you are talented - a gift to us all.
Thank you! :-):-)
Dear Kazu and Keiko,
I'm telling all my friends about your beautiful music. I love the Sign of the Snow Crane. My favorites are Love on the Moon, Morning Mist Across the Sea and Dream Walk but all the songs are very good. I sent your latest CD, Full Moon and the Shrine to my friend in Dallas and also got a copy for myself. I'm looking forward to getting your latest CD with Bob James.
When do you think that your newest CD with Bob James will be available in the music stores here in the U.S.A.?
I recorded A Drop of Water for another friend of mine he really loves it. I've let four friends know about your music and they are quickly getting hooked.
One of my favorite CD's of yours is Doll. I love how you dedicated that one to your Dad. I lost my Dad in 1988 and I feel like you do that he is still a part of my life.
Take care. Best wishes and much success and happiness always to you and your family.
A loyal and devoted fan always -- Cindy
Dear Keiko and Kazu,
You are AWESOME!!! Thank you very much for the wonderful performance you put on at the 98.9 Smooth Jazz Festival at St.Michelle Winery last Saturday. I think a lot of people there were pleasantly surprised (including myself) expecting Keiko Matsui to be "laid back" and mellow, but you turned it out girlfriend! People in the NW now know that you "rock the house". And Kazu playing the Shakuhachi (is that how it is called?) was a very special treat indeed. My only regret is that I did not bring my wife (doesn't like smooth jazz, but likes Keiko Matsui) she would have had a good time also.
I missed you the first time you visited my hometown here in Seattle, but I won't miss you again! Please make this area a regular stop on your future tours. The people here really appreciate your work and love experiencing it live that much more. Everyone I talked to about the Festival was enamored by your performance. We hope you will visit us again soon!
Arigato - -Jay
Dear Kazu and Keiko,
Congratulations on a wonderful performance last evening at Fashion Island. Thank you for making time to visit with Janina and myself and for meeting with Honorable Grandmother, Emiko. Please give her our fondest regards and tell her thank you sincerely for bringing beverages to Janina and myself. It was most gracious of her to go out of her way to do so. I look forward to seeing her again in the future, possibly at another concert.
I cannot tell you how wonderful the performance was as it again had a most enjoyable selection of songs that somehow never seem to tire ones ears. I still hold the concert at the Ritz as number one in as many as I have been able to see for myself; but I am certain that all of your performances are most entertaining.
A certain lady who sat behind me said she saw Keiko in Hawaii and tries to see you whenever she can. Other people seemed to be dancing in their seats with their bodies moving to the beat of the music; I even found my own feet tapping and just wanting to dance every which way with certain songs. There seems to be a true enchantment that makes one almost lose oneself in whatever tune is being played. And even if one has heard a particular song again and again, there is always a newness about it that brings one to another level of that song.
I must admit that the performance given by Kazu was most outstanding. Having heard you play as well as you have, I must say everyone around seemed taken in by your outstanding talent.
Thank you again so very much for your time most memorable visit. It was a day that Janina was looking forward to since she learned that your tour included Fashion Island. We will be spending a few days in the desert, Palm Springs as the end of summer is at hand and school will begin in about four weeks.
We wish you all a most relaxing time now that your tour is coming to a close and I hope we see each other again soon.
Best regards to all -- Janina and Liz
Dear Keiko,
You are the best instrumentist in the world !!!!!! My grandmother listens to jazz and we love it !!! I know you have fun writing your music.
I'm 9 years old and I first didn't like jazz, but now that I listen to it I love it!!!!
I'm going to 4th grade this year and I know I will like it !!!!
Love your friend - Caitlyn
Dear Keiko,
Last year, while I was having breakfast with my sister Michele, a tune came over the Hyatt Regency speaker system in their dining room. My sister said that this was a song by a new artist she had just heard on the radio. We both stopped eating and listened to the whole song. We then ran up to the front desk and ask the attendant if they could find out who the artist was and the name of the song that had just played. They obliged us and told us that it was "Bridge over the Stars." We then hurriedly completed our breakfast and ran to a local music shop to purchase all of your available albums. Music brings me much joy, and your music and musical talents bring me much joy. Thank you very much.
Also I was able to see you in concert at the DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, DC. You were performing with the Navy Jazz Band. You and Kazu and the band were wonderful.
I thank you, and wish you and your family much happiness and good health.
P.S. Your recently released "Live" album is fantastic.
Sincerely - Stephen
Dear Keiko & Kazu,
My wife and I are big fans of your music, and recently attended your concert at the Royal Oak Music Theater (October 20, 1999). I brought a neighbor as our guest, and gave away an extra ticket at the door so that another person could be mesmerized by your talent. It was our first time to see and hear you in person, and I will never forget it.
Since I first heard your music, I've been inspired to start playing piano again - something I have not done in 35 years ! Your compositions are very moving and have touched something deep inside that has been dormant for so many years. I hope to acquire an electronic keyboard soon and begin practicing again.
The guy in the front of the theater was right when he said "We love you, Keiko !" - Detroit and the world has a profound respect for your music, your lifestyle, and your dedication as a performer. Thank you for signing my CD after the show, too - it is refreshing to see that you appreciate the fans as much as we appeciate you and Kazu and the band.
Please come back soon, because WE LOVE YOU, KEIKO !
Warm Regards - John
Keiko,
After attending your Broadway Plaza performance, I wanted my 12 year old daughter, Rachael, to see you in person - since I have all your CDs. We saw you at the Carriage House, Saratoga on November 16th and you were gracious enough to sign CDs for us. Rachael enjoyed your performance very much. I was glad to share with her one of my favorite musicians. You provide a very positive role model to young girls. There are very few female recording artists that provide a postiive image. I told Rachael that you travel with your family when your daughters are out of school - your family is very important to you - the way it should be ;-)
Thank you for a wonderful evening of music and imagery - Suzanne and
Rachael
Kazu and Keiko,
It was a pleasure meeting the two of you on the Smooth Jazz Cruise. Thanks for the fond memories and the great tunes you sent our way. My wife and I will talk of this last week for the rest of our lives. I've been listening to you for ten years now and the first time I purchased one of your recordings was a special event in my life (too long to go into). I've introduced your music to many people and they are now all fans. In fact, I brought three of them along on the cruise. I hope you enjoyed the river cruise.
Thanks again and try to make it out to the San Francisco Bay Area soon. Also, I don't know about you, but as I'm writing this, I can't seem to stop the floor from moving. P.S. Kazu, thanks for playing for the fish. I'm sure they enjoyed it.
Thanks for your warmth, the sounds and a great
experience - Jean-Yves and Gloria
Dear Keiko,
I attended a concert of yours in St.Petersburg FL about 1 year ago. I had heard your music on our local jazz station but had never heard the beautiful song *Kappa*. I had recently put my wonderful dog (Prince a black Cocker) to sleep due to illness and my heart was broken. Kappa was one of the most beautiful songs I have ever heard. You told a story of the water elf but I cannot recall what it was about.
When I decided to find a new pet I knew the name it would have .. Kappa. I decided to adopt a cat, something I had never had before, so I went out to find my Kappa. I live on the water so I thought it would all fit together. Well, It took me approx. a week to find Kappa, a black male cat with the most wonderful personalty. This was on Oct. 21.1998. He knows his song when I play it and it is so like him. Slow and so smooth at first then fast and crazy keeping rhythm with the song. I would love to again hear about the story of the little water elf so I could tell my cute Kappa where his name came from. If you could just send me a line about the story I would really love to hear it. Thank you for your wonderful music and I hope to see you again soon.
Sincerely - Janell
Hello Keiko and Kazu,
I heard you for the first time a month or so ago on BET television.
Your music reached deep into the very depths of my soul, far more so than
any other music I have ever heard. It brought to life every emotion known
to man and stirred me in a way that I cannot explain. Watching you, Keiko,
as you performed, I could see that you were living the music as
well as revealed by your facial expressions and body movements.
Kazu, your performances on the Shakahachi reached so deep within me and awoke something that I did not even know existed within my soul. Even though I am not Native American, your music in "Walls Of The Cave" brought to life something in my feelings that I never knew existed and transported me back through time as though I was actually there in a more primitive, beautiful and innocent time.
I have purchased your CD, Keiko Matsui Live and will certainly be ordering all of your other recordings as well. Thank you for what you have brought to the world and to me personally with your music. Please don't ever stop.
Sincerely, thankfully and with admiration - Jerry
Dear Keiko and Kazu,
Thank you very much for the newsletter. We saw you in St. Petersburg, we were in the front row, right in front of Keiko. We were a few minutes late if you remember us coming in. I took a photo and will send it soon.
We thoroughly enjoyed the show, especially that blues number at the end! Although we did not fly nearly as far as you, we did fly in a 4 seat plane from the East Coast of Florida just to see you and then flew back after the show. The pilot was in a hurry so we did not get a chance to meet you afterwards.
The next night, we happened to turn on PBS and there you were again! We wanted to go on the Jazz cruise but could not get away. It sounds like you had a nice time.
Regards - Andy & Kim
Dear Keiko and Kazu,
We wanted to let you know just how much we enjoyed your presence and performances aboard the Norway. It was a pleasure to finally meet both of you in person. Had seen you twice earlier this year. While it was disappointing to miss some of the islands, we got to spend more time with all of you. I was more interested in the music and the performers than the islands anyway.
It was quite an experience to meet and spend time with not only great performers, but to get to meet their families and to see how great smoooooothjazz listeners and performers are. Kazu, as an American with some native blood, I really enjoy how natural the Shakuhachi sounds so much like a native flute. Keep up the good work. And after comparing the size of our hands Keiko, I am still amazed at all of those keys you reach.
We had a great anniversary on board the Norway with a couple thousand of our friends and we look forward to seeing you in DC with the Air Force Orchestra in February.
All our best wishes to you and your family and may the gods look kindly on your music and your travels.
Ken & Joy