Originally from Japan, pianist Ayako Shirasaki showed an early talent for jazz and classical styles. As an adult, she moved to New York and entered the Manhattan School of Music, where she studied with Kenny Barron and Ted Rosenthal. She's gone on to establish herself as one of New York's finest jazz pianists.

On this 2006 episode of Piano Jazz, Shirasaki performs her compositions "Far Away" and "Falling Leaves."

Originally broadcast in the fall of 2006.

Set List

  • "Con Alma" (Gillespie)
  • "Oblivion" (Powell)
  • "Isfahan" (Ellington, Strayhorn)
  • "Stranger In A Dream" (McPartland)
  • "Far Away" (Shirasaki)
  • "Memories Of You" (Blake, Razaf)
  • "Falling Leaves" (Shirasaki)
  • "I'll Remember April" (DePaul, Johnston, Raye)
Copyright 2016 NPR. To see more, visit NPR.

300x250 Ad

300x250 Ad

Support quality journalism, like the story above, with your gift right now.

Donate