Kayo Ishimaru Fleisher
Principal Harp
What do you want patrons of the Symphony to know about you?
My husband, Richard Fleisher, is principal harpist in the Naples Philharmonic. His two sisters are harpists. His uncle was principal harpist in the Chicago Symphony. His grandmother was a harpist. My mother plays the harp. We own a harp which was played by Harpo Marx.
Do you have any pre-concert rituals or routines?
I don’t eat and drink.
What would you be doing if you weren’t a professional musician?
Design something. I like to make things.
What teacher, mentor or other influencer inspired you the most?
Attending Leon Fleisher, my father-in-law’s master class. You learn a lot about music not just playing piano.
What do you do in your spare time?
Take my dog for swims, knitting, weaving, fusing glass and fixing houses.
What has been your favorite moment on stage?
My mother played harp in the Civic Orchestra with me.
Do you have any pets?
Two German shepherd dogs, Momo and Gidora (brother and sister). Momo (girl) stays with me in Jacksonville, Gidora (boy) stays with my husband Richard in Naples.
Who is your favorite composer?
Ravel, Debussy.
Education
Tokyo University of Fine Arts and Music, Paris Conservatory.