Hiromi Sonicwonder Performs at the Library of Congress

It is always remarkable when a long-anticipated project transforms into a cherished memory. Such was the case with the visit of Japanese-born pianist, composer and bandleader Hiromi Uehara, who performed at the Library of Congress on Friday, November 8, 2024. Hiromi, alongside her band Sonicwonder—featuring Adam O’Farrill on trumpet, Hadrien Feraud on bass, and Gene Coye on drums—delivered an unforgettable performance.  

The day began with a personalized collection display, showcasing materials from the Lee Mergner Collection, the Ira and George Gershwin Collection, and a Beethoven manuscript from the Music Treasures Collection. As she was viewing the collection, Hiromi paused at photographs of Toshiko Akiyoshi, the first Japanese woman pianist and bandleader who made her mark in the U.S. jazz scene during the 1950s. Reflecting on Toshiko’s journey, Hiromi remarked, “I can’t imagine what Toshiko went through when she moved to America.” 

We included a copyright deposits of Chick Corea’s “Fragments.” Given Hiromi’s personal connection with Chick, I had the secret hope that she might shed light on the graphics included in the score. Though she didn’t recognize them, she recounted meeting Chick in Japan at age 17. He was so impressed by her playing that he invited her to perform with him the next evening, marking the start of a lasting friendship. 

For the centennial celebration of Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue,” the Music Division included Hiromi’s album “Spectrum,” which features her rendition titled “Rhapsody in Various Shades of Blue.” This 20-minute-long piece shows her depth as pianist and composer and pays tribute to Gershwin’s influence on her career. Because of this connection, we showed her various manuscripts including “Concerto in F.”  To our delight, Hiromi revealed she is preparing to perform this work in Japan in 2025. She thoroughly enjoyed examining the original manuscript and its meticulous notations. 

The highlight of the day was surprising Hiromi with an opportunity to play George Gershwin’s Steinway piano. Although our time was limited due to sound check, we quickly arranged for her to visit the Gershwin Room. With a radiant smile, she sat at the piano and played an improvisation of “I Got Rhythm,” exclaiming, “It sounds good!” 

The day culminated in an electrifying concert at the historic Coolidge Auditorium. Hiromi and Sonicwonder delivered a high-energy, rhythm-filled performance that had the audience vibrating with excitement. Her unparalleled artistry and the band’s dynamic synergy created an unforgettable experience. Thank you, Hiromi, Adam, Hadrien and Gene, for a night to remember. 

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