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Michiko

Piano Teacher

Michiko Inoue, is a gifted pianist, composer, and educator, hails from the culturally rich city of Fukuoka, Japan. From an early age, Michiko’s life was steeped in the sounds of her parents’ favorite artists—The Beatles, Ryuichi Sakamoto, Miles Davis, and Thelonious Monk. Though these influences seemed distant to her as a child, they planted the seeds for her future musical explorations, shaping the eclectic and vibrant foundation of her artistry.  

 

At just four years old, Michiko embarked on her formal musical journey at the Yamaha Music School, where she trained in classical piano with exceptional focus and discipline. Her talent blossomed further during her studies at Fukuoka Jogakuin High School, where she delved deeply into the nuances of classical music. However, her world was turned upside down at 17 when she first encountered the soulful voices of Marvin Gaye and Aretha Franklin in the film *Remember the Titans.* The powerful soundtrack ignited a passion for American popular music, prompting Michiko to rediscover her parents' treasured collection of blues and jazz recordings.  

This transformative period also saw Michiko immersing herself in gospel music as an accompanist for her church’s choir. Her spirited performances, which extended to venues like the Sasebo U.S. Military Base and Fukuoka's Christmas Festival, became early milestones in her burgeoning career.  

 

Determined to expand her horizons, Michiko pursued jazz piano at Fukuoka Women's Junior College, where she honed her skills and began performing at local jazz bars. Her talent and dedication earned her a coveted spot in Berklee College of Music's prestigious Five-Week Summer Program in 2017. Recognizing her extraordinary potential, Berklee awarded her a scholarship to its undergraduate program, where she enrolled in 2019 to specialize in jazz piano performance.  

 

While at Berklee, Michiko thrived as a consummate musician, earning a reputation as an in-demand pianist in Boston’s vibrant jazz scene. Her weekly performances at the iconic Wally’s Jazz Café drew audiences eager to experience her dynamic blend of technical prowess and emotional depth.  

 

In 2024, Michiko achieved another milestone, moving to New York City to immerse herself in its renowned jazz culture. Her artistry continued to evolve, blending the diverse influences that have defined her musical journey.  

 

Michiko’s passion for teaching was reignited during the COVID-19 pandemic when she returned to Japan. Sharing her expertise with students of all ages, she discovered the joy of inspiring others through music. Her calm and patient teaching style, paired with a knack for making lessons both challenging and enjoyable, quickly earned her acclaim as an exceptional educator.  

In October 2024, Michiko joined the faculty at The Chief Musician Institute (TCMI), bringing her wealth of knowledge and cultural richness to the institution. Her impact has been profound, as she seamlessly bridges the gap between technical mastery and soulful expression, inspiring students to explore their own musical voices.  

 

Whether on stage or in the classroom, Michiko Inoue continues to touch hearts and minds, sharing her love for music with the world and leaving an indelible mark on all who have the privilege to learn from or hear her play.

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