Tateno, 87, mesmerizes Kathmandu with piano melodies

White hair, a white sweater beneath a black coat and pants. A smiling face etched with the lines of age. The entire right side of his body is immobile, requiring support even to stand, let alone walk. Yet his spirit burns as brightly as that of a 16-year-old. He is a master of creativity and the composer of thousands of captivating melodies.

At 87, Japanese pianist Izumi Tateno recently performed in Kathmandu. He left the audience spellbound at a concert held at the residence of Japanese Ambassador Kikuta Yutaka in Soaltee Mode. Organized by the Japanese Embassy in Nepal, Tateno unleashed the sweet tones and melodies of the piano, mesmerizing everyone in attendance.

Visiting Nepal for the first time at the age of 87, Tateno brought with him sweet melodies. A massive piano was the only thing on the stage. Tateno arrived on stage in a wheelchair and delivered an extraordinary musical experience. The audience, including ambassadors from various countries and distinguished guests, were deeply touched by his music. He created different rhythms on the piano with just one hand, spreading sweetness in every heartbeat.

Tateno’s piano craze is simply astonishing. Everyone marveled at the Japanese melodies that flowed from the piano as he produced beautiful tunes with his eyes closed.

As National Poet Madhav Prasad Ghimire once said, no one can stop the power of creativity. Neither age, physical limitations, nor any other obstacle can hinder it.

Tateno’s life has seen many ups and downs. The right side of his body is paralyzed, and he cannot stand upright without support. But the melodies he creates with his left hand on the piano are exceptional. His unique ability to captivate and mesmerize the audience is remarkable.

Born in Tokyo in 1936, Tateno has been a permanent resident of Finland since 1964. Even at 87, his energy is admirable. He performed in India and Bhutan before coming to Nepal.  

Although this was his first visit to Nepal, Tateno appeared at ease, bowing repeatedly in gratitude and respect toward the Nepali audience. Tateno, who has composed music for hundreds of songs in Japanese and other languages, has a voice as melodious as his music. His dedication to the rhythm and music of the piano was palpable.

Japanese Ambassador to Nepal Kikuta Yutaka, who attended the concert, took Tateno’s name with great reverence. He wholeheartedly praised the pianist's work and abilities, calling him a king of the piano and a special creator of Japanese music.

Tateno presented more than half a dozen tunes in various styles and melodies. He lost himself in the music as he pressed the keys with one hand, and after each performance, he would scan the audience, perhaps wondering, “Did my melodies reach them? Did they sway with the piano’s rhythm?”

With each performance, the audience responded with thunderous applause. Tateno made the hour entirely piano-centric, freezing time with the sweetness of his music. He swayed in rhythm and poured emotions into the melodies. 

It is said that art knows no geography, no fixed language or rhythm, no caste or religion. Creativity touches minds, feels heartbeats and speaks the language of the soul. This autumn evening swayed to the rhythm of Piano Master Izumi Tateno’s music.