Christina Demirchyan, Managing Editor

Playing for an audience ready to delve into the classic masterpieces of composers such as Beethoven and Sebastian Bach, Maiko Yamagami captured the audience’s attention as her fingers glided through the each elegant yet electrifying musical drama.

Beginning the recital with Johann Bach’s Prelude and Fugue no. 21, Yamagami’s command of the piano became apparent as she entwined Bach’s musical notes with her own artistic interpretation.

“I tried my best to express the different feelings for each piece. Each piece that I played at the night had each different style and taste, so I hope that people could feel that from my performance,” said Yamagami.

Although Yamagami has played in front of audiences before, the performance, which took place on Sunday, was the first recital where she was the main star.

“I try to imagine the picture of each piece in my mind to express the piece that [I’m playing]. But, sometimes I get nervous to do in front of a large audience,” said Yamagami.

Though the event was seen as her recital, Yamagami also performed with other musicians. Johnny Ng, a violinist who performed Franz Schubert’s Arpeggione with Yamagami, said, “Its really easy to work with her. She is really professional [and] has a nice personality.”

Complementing one another, the musical piece went through a rhythmic flow where both the piano and violin had their moments to shine. An aesthetically pleasant harmony between piano and violin, they allowed the audience to experience different emotions while creating art.

Using music as a form of connection, duets can shatter barriers and allow artists combine their feelings and visions. “Playing duets with other people is like sharing the feeling of the piece and make the music together,” said Yamagami.

Laraine Stivers, assistant professor of music, said, “it was very rewarding working with Yamagami because she came to PCC with a degree in social welfare and already knew how to work in a discipline. The issue was never to encourage her to practice because that was a given. She just needed, like any promising student, steady guidance and direction in how to develop in her music.”

Generating a professional, commanding persona, each piece Yamagami played presented her own innovative vision. “Maiko shows strength in how she approaches a new piece of music with her independent thinking and diligent hard work,” said Stivers.

While Yamagami was able to play passionately, she incorporated her own feelings and emotions into each piece. Stivers added, “Maiko knows she needs to improve and grow in understanding the music she plays through a deeper awareness of its style and structure.”

Adjunct Assistant Professor Jacqueline Petitto said, “It’s always so intimidating to go out there and feel confident.” As intimidating as it was, Yamagami played a recital that left her audience in awe. “I thought it was amazing,” said observer Aaron Herrera.

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