CD Resonance

While this may be a matter of course for a professional performer, as far as I am aware Kaori takes it to a level that would overwhelm most others. The fruit of such grueling practice is beautifully evident in rich expressiveness and precision she brings to each of the pieces presented on the CD.     -Chofu Yanai

My first experience of hearing Kaori perform was a revelation. For most of us, the harp calls to mind the image of a dainty princess or an angel who plays nothing but sweet, romantic melodies. But Kaori unleashes storms and angry waves of tempestuous resonance on her harp that shook me to the roots of my soul. If you listen to the music, the powerful, radiant voice, the vibrant energy of the Valkyrie soaring on majestic wing will reveberate in yur heart.     -Yoko Kirishima

I was her major professor at Indiana University where she was one of our most outstanding harpists in a large department of many outstanding harpists. She won the concerto competition and performed brilliantly with our symphony orchestra. She is an amazing soloist, having wide experience in solo recitals and chamber music. She has a great technical facility, combined with a large and warm tone quality and excellent musicality and expressivity. She also has wide knowledge and practical experience in harp pedagogy, where she excelled again as one of our top teachers in practicum, where she worked with younger harpists very effectively. She has a very sweet and charming personality and works extremely well with young people. She also has a wide knowledge of and experience in orchestral repertoire.                 

Susann McDonald, Chairman
Harp Department
Distinguished Professor of Music
Jacobs School of Music
Indiana University
Artistic Director
The World Harp Congress, Inc.

I have known Kaori as a colleague and a friend, as she has been invited to perform with the Vancouver Metropolitan Orchestra, not only once, but twice due to her incredible success with our organization. She has also performed with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and myself through our tea and trumpet series, and the audiences were absolutely receptive to her.

Her idea of wanting to give back what she has been given from her previous world re-known teachers are one of her strongest traits. She will pass on the knowledge and technique she has been taught throughout the years to the new upcoming generations without a slightest hint of hesitations.
 
Kaori is very kind, honest, and reliable. I know in she will gain the trust and respect from her students and colleagues.

Ken Hsieh
Music Director, Vancouver Metropolitan Orchestra
Conductor, Hyogo Performing Arts Center Orchestra, Japan
Artistic-Director Designate, Theatro Salo, Italy
 

Weddings:

Thank you so very much for playing on our special day. The sound of your harp and your unique style of playing set the tone for our ceremony. Many of our guests loved the songs you played and thought the atmosphere you set was romantic and just the perfect touch.    -Leona

Kaori Otake was amazing on our wedding day. The harp added so much to our ceremony. Kaori was professional and helpful throughout our planning process. Her talent wowed our guests, and made our wedding truly stand out. We highly recommend Kaori!  Thanks so much Kaori,     -Jana and Matt :)

Thank you so much for your beautiful performance at our wedding. It was great to walk down the aisle to the lovely music of a harp.  Thank you for showing up early and making sure that there was adequate time in setting up the harp in time for the ceremony. You were nothing but professional in your attitude and for making due with the shade we managed to provide. We will be sure to recommend you to anyone else looking for a harpist at their event.  Thank you so much again,    -Amy & Steven