For her sixth Linn recording Kuniko has chosen to pay a personal tribute to one of Japan’s most celebrated post-war composers: Akira Miyoshi (1933-2013). Showcasing Miyoshi’s marimba works from the last four decades of the twentieth century, this recording represents a reference collection commemorating the composer’s significant contribution to this repertoire.

Solo marimba works include the Conversation Suite, Torse III, Ripple and the unpublished Six Prelude Etudes, the last piece for marimba that Miyoshi composed. The inclusion of Miyoshi’s Concerto for marimba and string ensemble inspired an exciting collaboration between Kuniko and Scottish Ensemble.

This recording offers a compelling exploration of the marimba’s remarkable sound-world, highlighting sharper and more percussive characteristics than those heard on Kuniko’s critically acclaimed album, J.S. Bach: Solo Works for Marimba. Tribute to Miyoshi is an important addition to the wider percussion catalogue and enhances Kuniko’s celebrated discography.

Kuniko is a soloist who is recognised around the world for her astonishing virtuosity, exquisite musical insight and expressive yet elegant performance style. She is renowned for her flawless technique when playing both keyboard and percussion instruments, which blends seamlessly with her profound musical intelligence.

Kuniko’s discography, which encompasses works by Steve Reich, Arvo Pärt, Iannis Xenakis and J.S. Bach, has won multiple awards and secured two nominations at the Japan Academy Awards.

Scottish Ensemble is a pioneering string orchestra of exceptional musicians led by Artistic Director Jonathan Morton. Scottish Ensemble celebrated its fiftieth anniversary in the 2019/20 season.

“Kuniko did not create the standard, she is setting it.” – All About Jazz

“A master marimba player.” – The Observer

“Kato has an impeccable sense of rhythm and superb control of the marimba …” – MusicWeb International

“Meticulous and muscular performances, at once elemental and elegant. Brilliant.” – The Sunday Times