MOMO SAKURA - COMPOSER | FLAUTIST
Japanese-based musician, Momo Sakura has an inspirational and creative way of cutting through to the core of her audience. Her love for fervent original compositions with a blend of Japanese culture, expose a truly vivid artist whose inspirational flute playing skills have the power to provoke a profound response from her audience. Attaining a degree in flute performance and as a Japanese and English professional interpreter has given her the chance to share her love for the flute and Japanese literature across the world.
Her passion to meet people to share and connect with her music has not only gained her world-wide recognition by playing in a world-wide live streaming concert, but also granted her a full recognition as an artistic heritage of Western Australia. All of her works can be found in the State Library of Western Australia as well as on her website.
Very musical childhood
I was brought up in my parents’ music shop, surrounded by many different types of music, from Classical to Rock N Roll!
I started playing the flute at the age of 10. (Joining the school band! )
I entered the Tokyo College of Music, Majoring in music with Flute as my specific instrument. I devoted myself to practice, practice and practice!
Because my dream has always been to become a musician, not a good one, but still a great one to this day.
Big move to Australia
I came to Australia for the first time in 1991, participating in the National Flute Convention. It was a huge shock for me because, at the time, I thought I had to take music very seriously at the time. I wonder, can we ENJOY the music?
So, after graduating from college, I returned to Australia to have more fun!
I became a full-time student learning English because I barely spoke English then.
I learned Aussie accents as well, which I am so proud of!
Enjoy music to the full.
I enjoyed holding many concerts in Perth to perform with the local musicians.
Also, I shared my love and gift of playing with local high schools, including St.Hilda’s school for girls.
In September 2000, I suddenly started to write music myself. I never expected that would happen to me. The great love of music must be overflowing through me. It is my passion and one which I will continue to follow consistently.
In 2001, I paired up with a talented guitarist, Simon Rovis-Hermann, and we recorded our first album, “Awakening”.
Together we toured 12 places both in Australia and Japan.
Giving spiritual advice
In 2005, I started to see people giving spiritual advice. Since childhood, I have been good at seeing who they are at their core. Lots of people, lots of stories of lives. Over 1000 of them.
It is a gift I treasure, and I feel honoured to help others/.
In 2007, my work “Snow woman”(original story by Yakumo Koizumi) was premiered at Western Australia University, commissioned by the Consulate-General of Japan in Perth.
Touching the love on the street
In 2011, devastatingly, the Great East Japan Earthquake struck Japan. I felt compelled to help these unfortunate victims, so I began performing my music on the street of Perth. It was a moving experience to feel the love from people, also was touched by the incredible power of music. We raised more than $5000, which was donated to charities.
In 2015 I was recognised as a “Western Australian Composer” by the State Library of Western Australia, where my collection of works has been archived. It was an unbelievable honour. One of which I am immensely proud of.
My current fabulous days
I regularly perform in the unit “Flute Oboe” with a beautiful oboist Masayo Miyata. Our extensive repertoires have over 200 pieces!
My vision for the future is limitless, not only composing and performing music but also speaking about wellness in body and mind. I would love to see you soon!
Tokyo-born Momo started playing the piano at the age of nine, then flute studies at the age of ten. She studied at the Tokyo College of Music and gave her first solo recital in Perth.
My first recital was in perth
1992.10.31
It was a wonderful experience!
She taught flute at St.Hilda's school of girls, Prendiville Catholic College, John Septimus Roe Anglican School in Perth from 1997 to 2001.
She is a professional interpreter recognized by NAATI. (National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters ) Started composing in 2000.