Mari Kumamoto

Mari Kumamoto (熊本 マリ, born October 15, 1964) is a Japanese-born professional pianist known for her recordings of Spanish and Japanese composers.

In 1982, Kumamoto was awarded a special scholarship to study at Juilliard School of Music under professor Sascha Gorodnitzki.

In 1986, Kumamoto returned to Japan and started a career focusing on the piano music of Spanish composer Federico Mompou (1893-1987).

Since then Kumamoto has given yearly solo and ensemble recitals with a special emphasis on Spanish and Latin American repertoire and Japanese composers including Hajime Okumura whose music reflects the traditional melodies of Japanese folk songs.

Appointed in 2010, Kumamoto is currently Professor of Music in Piano Performance at Osaka University of Arts.