Sayart.net - Japanese Pianist Hayato Sumino Masters YouTube Fame and Classical Music Acclaim

Ryuya Amao

Hayato Sumino, the prodigious Japanese pianist known by his YouTube moniker, Cateen, is an exceptional talent who has conquered both the realms of YouTube fame and classical music acclaim. Boasting a staggering 1.24 million subscribers on his YouTube channel, Sumino has also earned accolades in prestigious music competitions, making him a formidable force in the world of classical music.

Despite his natural aptitude for the piano, Sumino chose a different path and pursued studies in science, particularly mathematics and engineering. In an email interview, he highlighted the inherent connection between music and these disciplines, which grants him a unique perspective as a performer and interpreter.

On his YouTube channel, Sumino showcases captivating piano arrangements of pop songs and pop-oriented renditions of classical masterpieces, captivating audiences worldwide with over 160 million views. He emphasized the importance of innovation and authenticity in content creation, striving to offer a distinct musical experience that sets him apart from others in the digital landscape.

As he pursued a master's degree at the University of Tokyo's Graduate School of Information Science and Technology, Sumino's musical prowess earned him remarkable achievements, including winning the Grand Prix of the Special Class of the PTNA Piano Competition in 2018 and the third prize at the Lyon International Piano Competition in 2019. Building on these successes, he released his debut full-length album "Hayatosm" in 2020, which bolstered his confidence to pursue a career as a pianist, ultimately convincing his parents of his passion and potential.

Continuing to astonish the classical music world, Sumino reached the semifinals at the XVIII International Chopin Piano Competition in 2021, further solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the industry.

For his second recital in South Korea, scheduled on July 24 at 7:30 p.m. at the esteemed Lotte Concert Hall, Sumino has curated a captivating repertoire that intertwines his original compositions with timeless classical pieces that have deeply inspired him. The program includes revered piano works such as Gulda's Prelude and Fugue in E-flat Minor, Bach's Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring BWV 147, and Rameau's "La Poule" and "Les Sauvages," among others. Sumino will also showcase his own arrangements of Bach's Invention Nos. 4, 13, and 14, offering a glimpse into his creative prowess.

Intriguingly, Sumino will introduce three of his own piano compositions: "New Birth," "Recollection," and "Human Universe," as well as a charming piece dedicated to his beloved feline companion, "Big Cat Waltz." Demonstrating his versatility, Sumino's compositions offer a glimpse into his artistic vision for the future.

Looking ahead, Sumino aspires to honor classical music's timeless traditions while infusing it with innovation and evolution. As he continues to excel as a pianist, he also seeks to deepen his understanding of composition and arrangement, envisioning a future as an artist capable of crafting works for film music and collaborating with orchestras.

With boundless talent, passion, and an unwavering commitment to his art, Hayato Sumino is poised to carve a brilliant path in the world of classical music, captivating audiences both on and offline with his extraordinary musical journey.

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