Classic Keiko
If there were ever a genre of music that I never tire of its Smooth Jazz. Whether I have it on in the car, echoing in my home via XM (satellite) radio, or sitting in some large auditorium awaiting a concert nothing relaxes me more than the sweet sounds of contemporary jazz. In 2007, I had the opportunity to see and meet Keiko Matsui (Keiko Doi) at the {once again} acclaimed Birchmere Theatre in Alexandria, VA. Keiko was classically magnificent!
Keiko Matsui, 46 years old, was born and raised in Tokyo and began her first classical piano lesson at the age of 5. Keiko's mother believed the Japanese tradition that states if children are introduced to musical study at a young age they are more inclined to continue. And continue to study Keiko did. Keiko began composing her own music while in junior high school and this is where she began to take an interest in jazz. Post graduating the Japan Women's University, Keiko continued to study music under the Yamaha Music Foundation. Her affiliation with the Yamaha Foundation landed her the opportunity to come to the United States at 19 years old to work on her first project with producer now husband, Kazu Matsui. Kazu has produced all of Keiko's project's to date.
It is noted that some of Keiko's influences are Stevie Wonder, Chick Corea, and Maurice Jarre. Watching this petite powerhouse on stage is something of a phenomena. Keiko not only plays classical piano but in the middle of her performance she will also transfer over and play the keyboards. Her performance is non-stop and each selection leaves you awestruck by her amazing talent.
Reaching beyond the scope of music Keiko is also known for her charitable contributions. Keiko gives so much of herself to her charitable causes and supports known causes such as the Marrow Foundation and the National Marrow Donor Program. Keiko has dedicated 2 projects to charitable causes. In 1997, Keiko donated proceeds from her A Gift of Hope to the Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization and again in 2004, with her Wildflower project with all proceeds going to the United Nations World Food Program. It's an artist like this that makes the "hot seat" even hotter.
If you are smooth jazz enthusiast, I am more than confident that you will love the music of Keiko and I encourage anyone who hears of an upcoming concert date to rush at the chance to see this classical pianist. Keiko will leave you inspired by her gifts and you will continue to check tour dates because she is an artist that leaves you wanting more. We salute you, Keiko!
