Eriko Sumi

Eriko Sumi ，Violin

Born in Tokyo, she hails from a family deeply rooted in the world of music, with her grandfather, Saburo Sumi, being a renowned figure who made significant contributions to the development of the Japanese violin scene, and both her parents being accomplished violinists themselves.

In 1989, she relocated to the United States, where she pursued her musical education at the prestigious Juilliard School from 1994 to 1998. Under the guidance of esteemed mentors such as Dorothy DeLay and Samuel Sanders, she delved into the intricacies of chamber music. Her talent and dedication were duly recognized when she emerged victorious at the Michelangelo Abbado International Music Competition in 1994, marking a pivotal moment in her career. In subsequent years, she has had the honor of serving as a judge for the same competition, further cementing her reputation in the musical world.

In 2007, she clinched the top prize at the Italian Music Festival Alice Bel Core Competition, paving the way for her New York debut recital at Carnegie Hall and performances at Avery Fisher Hall. She has collaborated with esteemed orchestras and artists across the globe, showcasing her versatility and artistry in Japan, America, Italy, Austria, Northern Europe, Bulgaria, and beyond.

Her discography includes the release of the CD "Appassionato" in 2007, featuring mesmerizing renditions such as the Carmen Fantasia performed with the Sofia National Philharmonic and Sarasate. In 2009, her performance with the Orchestra Academia delle Opere at the Grand Hall of the Verdi Conservatory in Milan garnered widespread acclaim. The same year marked her debut as a Japanese artist with the Hungarian Virtuoso Chamber Orchestra and a performance at the Hungarian Parliament Building. Additionally, she made a triumphant return to Japan with a concert at the Royal Palace in Milan.

In recognition of her musical achievements, she was honored with the Toretta Prize in Milan in 2010 and appointed as the Furusato Ambassador of Tottori Prefecture in 2011. Her artistic journey has taken her to prestigious events such as the Dino Ciani Music Festival in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, where she had the privilege of participating in a master class under the tutelage of esteemed figures such as Ricardo Muti and Geoffrey Swann.

Having studied under the esteemed Reiner Honeck, concertmaster of the Vienna Philharmonic, she has had the privilege of collaborating with iconic figures such as Ivry Gitlis, Robbie Lakatos, and Vasco Basilev. Her performances have been featured on various radio and television programs, including TV Asahi, Nippon TV, "Shabekuri 007", "Koi Suru Classic", and NHK-FM broadcasting.

Currently based in Milan, Italy, she continues to captivate audiences worldwide, showcasing her artistry and passion for music through her performances in Italy, Austria, and beyond.

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