Thirteen-year-old Japanese violinist and VC Artist Himari has made history as the youngest female musician to sign with Decca Classics, the renowned British label.
Her debut album with the label, Carmen Fantasy, is set for release on May 23, 2025. Leading up to the album, two singles—Amy Beach’s Romance and Waxman’s Carmen Fantasy—will be released.
Himari will also mark a significant milestone in her career with her debut performance alongside the Berlin Philharmonic on March 20, 2025. She is set to perform Wieniawski’s Violin Concerto No. 1 in a sold-out series.
Since her soloist debut at the age of six, Himari has collaborated with esteemed orchestras, including the NHK Symphony Orchestra, New Japan Philharmonic, Tokyo Symphony Orchestra, Japan Philharmonic Orchestra, Kanagawa Philharmonic Orchestra, and Gunma Symphony Orchestra.
Her exceptional talent has earned her top honors at prestigious international competitions, including the International Competition for Young Violinists in Honor of Karol Lipinski and Henryk Wieniawski, the 12th Arthur Grumiaux International Violin Competition in Belgium, the 26th Andrea Postacchini International Violin Competition in Italy, the 20th Schelkunchik International Music Competition in Russia, and the Kogan International Violin Competition in Belgium.
“Himari’s artistry transcends her age,” said her mentor, Ida Kavafian. “When you listen to her play with your eyes closed, you would never guess she’s so young. She possesses the wisdom and depth of a seasoned musician. Her talent is truly remarkable.”
Expressing her excitement, Himari shared, “I am so happy to be joining Decca Classics! I hope listeners enjoy my performances through these recordings.”
Dominic Fyfe, Label Director of Decca Classics, praised her extraordinary ability: “Signing a debut artist is always a thrilling moment, and in Himari, we have a once-in-a-generation talent. Her technical brilliance, purity of tone, and profound musical expression make her an artist for all audiences. We at Decca Classics are excited to welcome her and share her artistry with the world.”
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