Hayato Sumino Performs for WPGA Students

WPGA was so fortunate to have renowned pianist, Hayato Sumino, perform for us! Grade 4 students and senior school students enjoyed this outstanding performance on Friday, May 8. He started with his own version of Mozart’s Twinkle Twinkle Little Star variations. Grade 4 strings students played it earlier in the year and we were mind blown with how complex and creative Hayato’s variations were.

Next, Hayato asked the audience to shout out five of their favourite notes, which he turned into a jazz influenced piece that he improvised on the spot! Another wonderful moment was when Hayato played the piano piece, Rhapsody in Blue, by George Gershwin and, at the same time, played the melodica, which is a tiny keyboard that makes sounds by blowing into it. Our jaws touched the floor! I bet nobody could beat that excellent performance.

We grade 4s were so inspired and intrigued by this performance at St. Helen’s Anglican Church. We loved the performance a lot and hope we will be able to attend another of Hayato’s concerts in September with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra.