Mitsuko Uchida | In the Green Room

TL;DR

An insightful conversation with pianist Mitsuko Oshida about her music, career, and life experiences during the pandemic.

Transcript

good evening everybody um welcome to south bank center and welcome to in the green room my name is jillian moore and i'm the director of music at south bank center so it's a huge pleasure and to welcome really one of truly one of the world's great musicians uh the pianist um dame mitsuko oshida who has a long-standing relationship with southbank ce... Read More

Key Insights

• 👪 Mitsuko Oshida found solace in staying home during the pandemic, enjoying the freedom from constant travel.
• 🫒 Oshida emphasized the importance of audience connection in live performances, drawing energy from their presence.
• 🥳 The pianist discussed her unique approach to preparing for performances, including rehearsing the entire program on the day of the concert.
• 🥰 Oshida's love for Vienna and its musical heritage influenced her decision to pursue a career in Europe, eventually leading her to the UK.
• 🖐️ Mitsuko Oshida's experience directing and playing with orchestras without a conductor began unexpectedly but developed into a fulfilling artistic endeavor.
• 🎹 Oshida's childhood exposure to music in Japan and later experiences in Vienna significantly shaped her musical journey and dedication to the piano.
• 😃 The conversation with Oshida provided insights into her passion for music, performance rituals, and the joy of collaborating with orchestras.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did the pandemic impact Mitsuko Oshida's performance schedule?

Mitsuko Oshida's last official concert was in March 2020 in Berlin, with subsequent performances being virtual due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Q: How does Oshida mentally and physically prepare for solo performances?

Oshida rehearses the entire program on the day of the concert, eats a steak for lunch, rests, and focuses on following the truth of each note on the day of the performance.

Q: Why did Oshida decide to direct and play with orchestras without a conductor?

Oshida's journey into directing and playing with orchestras without a conductor began accidentally but developed due to the unique connection and understanding she shared with musicians.

Q: How did Mitsuko Oshida's childhood influence her decision to pursue a career in music?

Growing up in Vienna and starting piano lessons at a young age despite limited exposure to classical music in Japan shaped Oshida's dedication to music, leading her to pursue a career as a pianist.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Director of Music at South Bank Center welcomes renowned pianist Dame Mitsuko Oshida.

• Oshida reflects on her last concert before the pandemic and the challenges of performing during COVID-19.

• The conversation delves into Oshida's approach to music, preparation for performances, and her special relationship with orchestras.