As a dedicated pedagogue, Kumiko is committed to fostering creativity, health, and well-being amongst musicians of all ages. Kumiko has presented masterclasses across North America and China, and has led discussions and seminars on a wide variety of topics, ranging from the power of non-verbal communication to social justice through classical music. She has facilitated strings programs for students in underserved communities in San Francisco, and led a strings program in the San Francisco public school system through the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. Kumiko began teaching at thirteen, and during her studies served as teaching assistant to Michael van der Sloot, William van der Sloot, and Ian Swensen. Kumiko has maintained an active private studio for beginner, advanced, and adult students, and is currently coaching chamber music at the University of Maryland.
Kumiko brings her unwavering commitment to teaching and community engagement to her work with the Thalea String Quartet and their frequent educational activities around the world. The quartet’s work as pedagogues has led Kumiko to develop a variety of unique educational projects, including a robust portfolio of virtual teaching residencies, and a strings program for young people with special sensory needs.
“Kumiko Sakamoto is one of the brightest souls I have ever met. Her thoughtfulness comes through in everything she does; she speaks with great intention, considering the feelings of others, and she allows her creativity to shine brilliantly in every piece of music she plays. I will never forget how Kumiko invited me and my chamber colleagues to exercise trust, both musically and emotionally. As we felt the growing pains of learning new music with new people, Kumiko met our frustration with empathy and offered gentle guidance based on her own experiences. She is a wonderful leader, supporter, teacher, performer, and friend whose passion and compassion are evident to all.”
- Ella Golden, Garth Newel Fellow, Cleveland Institute of Music