Tomono Kawamura: Reminiscence

In her new album, pianist Tomono Kawamura invites listeners on a journey through the rich tapestry of classical piano music. From her early beginnings of music education in Japan to her career on the global stage, Tomono’s deep connection to the piano shines through in every piece she plays. Her selections for this album reflect a blend of personal memories and timeless masterpieces, each one brought to life with her distinct poetic sensitivity and technical brilliance.

The album begins with Tchaikovsky’s October, Op. 37a No. 10, from his celebrated cycle The Seasons. In choosing this particular piece, Tomono captures the reflective and nostalgic mood of autumn, with its lingering profound warmth and hint of melancholy. Her interpretation brings out the delicate interplay of light and shadow in Tchaikovsky’s evocative composition, setting the tone for the album’s journey through the changing emotional landscapes of classical music.

Following this, Jean Sibelius’s Etude, Op. 76 No. 2 offers a glimpse into the Finnish composer’s introspective world. In Tomono’s hands, the piece’s subdued elegance and quiet intensity are carefully balanced, reflecting the stark beauty of the Finnish landscapes that inspired it. Brahms’s Hungarian Dance adds a lively burst of energy to the collection, with Tomono expertly navigating its spirited rhythms and fiery folk influences. The piece’s vibrant, dance-like qualities are captured with a joyful intensity that showcases her dynamic range and versatility.

Tomono’s deep affinity for Chopin is evident in her performance of six of the composer’s works, each selected to highlight different facets of his genius. From the lyrical intimacy of his nocturnes to the virtuosic brilliance of his études, Tomono’s interpretations are marked by
an emotional depth and clarity that resonate with the heart of Chopin’s music.

The album continues with selections from Scarlatti, Rachmaninoff, Debussy, and Grieg, each piece chosen to reflect the diverse stylistic periods of the piano repertoire. Whether it’s the crystalline precision of Scarlatti’s sonatas, the sweeping passion of Rachmaninoff’s preludes, the dreamlike textures of Debussy, or the rugged beauty of Grieg, Tomono’s performances are a testament to her understanding of the masterpieces.

A highlight of Reminiscence is the inclusion of Tomono’s own Variations which was written at the age of twelve. This original work bridges the past and present, blending classical form with contemporary expression. It serves as a showcase of her creativity and deep understanding of the classical tradition, offering a fresh voice while paying homage
to the composers who have inspired her musical journey.

Reminiscence is more than just a collection of classical works; it reflects Tomono Kawamura’s lifelong devotion to music. Through her thoughtful interpretations and masterful technique, she shares with listeners a deeply personal experience and memories that will resonate long after the final notes have faded.

About Tomono Kawamura:

Born in Japan, at the age of three, Tomono started her piano studies at the Yamaha Music School under Fumiko Eguchi. She made her orchestral debut as a soloist at fifteen. Later, Tomono was awarded a scholarship to study at the Royal Academy of Music in London with Christopher Elton where she graduated with the First Class Honours. She has won number of awards and appeared in such venues like the Wigmore Hall, London. In recent years, Tomono has appeared internationally as a solo recitalist, captivating audiences around the globe.