A couple days ago, we heard the news that a 105-year-old female pianist had passed away. To be honest with you, I didn't know that there was such a pianist in Japan until I read the news article.

Her name was Mayako Muroi. Mayako was born in 1921 and had started learning the piano at age of six. She graduated from Tokyo University of the Arts as valedictorian. She debuted as a soloist with the NHK Symphony Orchestra in 1945.

After WWII, Mayako had started her career as a professional pianist. She played in a movie, and held lots of recitals. In 1956, a turning point came to Mayako. She was selected as Japan's representative for the Mozart Bicentennial Festival. She won a scholarship and studied abroad in Berlin University of the Arts. Until returning to Japan in 1980, she had performed in Europe. She was recognized as one of the world 150's greatest pianists in 1964.

Ever since Mayako returned to Japan, she had been active and energetic. Even thought she turned over 100, she never stopped playing the piano. She continued performing until the very end of her life.

When I read about her life, I was deeply impressed. Although I don't want to live to be 105, if I do, I hope I'll still be doing what I love the most. She must have lived in a very happy and fruitful life.

Here's a video clip that she's playing. I was very surprised when I knew her age. Back then, Mayako was 92 and didn't look her age at all. Her performance sounded very energetic and full of life. The music starts at around 18-minute mark. Here's the video clip. Enjoy!

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