The Story of Haruko Kataoka 1927 - 2004
Dr. Kataoka is the world’s leading pedagogue on the Suzuki Piano Method. Her influence has been felt by Suzuki teachers worldwide. In 1955, Dr. Kataoka moved to Matsumoto to serve as accompanist in Dr. Shinichi Suzuki’s Talent Education Institute. She began to research piano pedagogy according to Dr. Suzuki’s philosophy and was instrumental in developing the Suzuki method for the piano. She has continued to refine the concept of leading young students to use natural techniques to produce beautiful tone. Her innovative ideas have fully implemented Dr. Suzuki’s philosophy that all children have musical talent if their natural ability is nurtured in a supportive environment.
In 1990, she was granted an honorary doctorate in music from the University of Louisville. Today, Dr. Kataoka continues to teach students and train teachers all over the world. Suzuki piano teachers around the world were deeply saddened to receive the news of the death of Dr. Kataoka on 10th January 2004 . She remained active until shortly before her death and had only recently directed the eleventh of her 10 – piano concerts in Matsumoto. She was the co-founder, with Dr Suzuki his sister-in-law Shizuko Suzuki Piano Method, and for many years the Director of the Piano Programme at the Talent Education Research Institute in Matsumoto. She was awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Louisville in 1990. During the time when European Suzuki Association and most of national associations in Europe were formed between 1977 and 1985, a whole generation of Suzuki teachers travelled to Matsomoto to study with Dr Suzuki and with Mrs Kataoka. Her influence was very important in the formation of the Suzuki piano school in Europe , which is new flourishing. The first European generation of teacher trainers all owe a great deal to her example and teaching, and they have in turn trained many outstanding young teachers, following her principles and guidance. During a period of some twenty years Mrs Kataoka also visited Europe on many occasions and was most generous with her time and advice. She will be greatly missed by her disciples who continued to study with her over the years. Thank to: The article is from Suzuki Association of the Americas . Inc. and International Suzuki Association.