Perhaps you haven't heard of Fujiko Hemming. But after listening to Jill Pasternak's interview with the gifted Japanese/Swedish pianist you won't forget her, or her amazing story.
Born in Berlin, Hemming was considered a child prodigy. And at the age of 17, she made her concert debut winning numerous prestigious competitions and prizes. Lauded by eminent musicians such as composer/conductor Bruno Maderna and Leonard Bernstein, her musical career showed every sign of a very long and successful career. Tragically she lost her hearing just as she was to have her debut with Bernstein; eventually 40% of her hearing returned years later.
Hemming became a superstar in Japan after a documentary of her life aired on Japanese national television and her album sales soared. Her debut CD, La Campanella, sold over two million copies, an unusual phenomenon in the classical music world. And now she tours the world to sold out halls.
Hemming will release her best-selling albums in the United States via iTunes on September 15th; up until now, they have only been available in Japan. She'll perform in New York City at Lincoln Center's Alice Tully Hall on Friday, September 18th, her first appearance there after many years.