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Duo Umemomo Recital: Love, Let The Wind Cry

The Duo Umemomo, comprised of soprano Momoko Tanno and pianist Hajime Umetani, is set to enchant audiences with their upcoming recital titled Love, Let The Wind Cry. This event will take place on August 1, 2026, at the Shinjuku Bunka Center in Tokyo, Japan. Tickets are currently available through Confetti, managed by Long Run Planning Co., Ltd.

The duo formed while studying at Nihon University's College of Art. After graduation, they ventured into prestigious musical careers, with Tanno performing in the United States and Europe while Umetani based himself in Germany. Despite their relocation, they have continued to collaborate and share the stage, bringing their unique artistry to life.

This recital is particularly significant as it marks their first performance since their 2022 Tokyo concert. Tanno and Umetani have chosen to focus on the theme of women's poetry and music, spotlighting the works of often-overlooked female and Black composers and poets throughout history.

Classical music's narrative has largely been dominated by white European males, overshadowing the contributions of diverse voices. In this new era of cultural rediscovery, Love, Let The Wind Cry aims to break free from conventional frameworks and present a celebration of artistry that emerges from diverse perspectives. The program will feature seminal works from various time periods, providing a window into the emotive power of femininity and cultural richness.

The repertoire features stunning pieces inspired by female poets from the ancient Greek Sappho to contemporary figures such as Emily Dickinson and Louise de Vilmorin. The recital will also include compositions from groundbreaking male composers like Aaron Copland, Francis Poulenc, and Heitor Villa-Lobos, who were deeply moved by these poets’ words. Moreover, the memories of extraordinary women and Black composers like Amy Beach, Florence Price, and Undine Smith-Moore will resonate through the performances, as their legacies continue to inspire contemporary artists.

The heartfelt expressions found in their works speak directly to modern audiences, carrying the fragrances of earth and wind, much like the delicate, entrancing sounds of nature that flow throughout the music. These artists, who maintained their voices despite societal challenges and repression, convey powerful messages that resonate deeply. With each note, Duo Umemomo aims to bring their resilient spirits to life, diving into the rich narrative of hope and perseverance.

Concert Program (Tentative)

• - Undine Smith-Moore: Sappho - “Love, Let it Cry to the Wind”
• - Aaron Copland: Selected Songs from “12 Songs by Emily Dickinson”
• - Amy Beach: “In the Dream” Op. 15-3 (Solo Piano)
• - Heitor Villa-Lobos: “Bachianas Brasileiras No. 5: Cantilena and Aria”
• - Francis Poulenc: “Homage to Piaf” (Solo Piano)
• - Francis Poulenc / Louise de Vilmorin: “Metamorphoses”
• - Florence Price: “Sunset,” “Night,” “Hold Fast to Dreams”
• - Florence Price: “Four Negro Dances” for Solo Piano

Performers' Profiles

Momoko Tanno, Soprano

After honing her skills in France and the U.S., Tanno made notable appearances in operas like Figaro and Don Giovanni with the Theatre de la Jeune Lune in Minneapolis. She participated in a nationwide tour that propelled her into the spotlight, contributing to the theater's Tony Award win for that production. Recently, Tanno continues to captivate audiences in various genres, including musicals and song cycles, while also serving as a lecturer at the University of Wisconsin and nurturing future talents in the field.

Hajime Umetani, Piano

Umetani obtained his national performance qualification in Germany and has since been a dynamic figure in the region's musical community. Since 2019, he has been involved with the Städtischer Musikverein zu Düsseldorf, actively participating in concerts at the Tonhalle Düsseldorf. His diverse repertoire includes significant works by Mahler, Brahms, and many others, allowing for rich collaborations with vocalists, as he pursues a fulfilling career as a soloist and chamber musician throughout Germany.

Event Details

Duo Umemomo Recital: Love, Let The Wind Cry
Date: August 1, 2026 (Saturday)
Doors open: 13:30 / Start time: 14:00
Location: Shinjuku Bunka Center Small Hall, Tokyo, Japan
Ticket prices:

• - Advance: ¥3,500
• - At the door: ¥4,000
• - Student tickets: ¥2,500

(All seats are unreserved)

Purchase tickets at Confetti:
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