Grace Nikae, Piano

Biography

American pianist Grace Nikae has established an international reputation as one of the leading and compelling young artists of today. Thrilling and captivating audiences and critics alike with her exquisite artistry, blazing virtuosity, and passionate, individual style, Ms. Nikae has been hailed worldwide for her "poetic and fiery" playing and her performances of "superb technique and powerful expressiveness" on concert stages throughout North America, Europe, and Asia.

Ms. Nikae’s active touring schedule of concerti, recital, and chamber engagements takes her around the world every year. She has appeared in many of the world’s foremost halls including Carnegie Hall, Amsterdam’s Concertgebouw, London’s Wigmore Hall, and Matsukata Hall in Japan. She has appeared in festivals in Finland, Canada, and the United States, and has performed as soloist with orchestras throughout the United States, Europe, and Japan. An ardent chamber musician, Ms. Nikae also frequently collaborates with esteemed artists and with members of leading orchestras.

A prizewinner and the highest-ranking American at the 1998 Ibla International Piano Competition in Italy, Ms. Nikae also won the 2000 Artists International Debut Prize, and was presented in her solo recital debut at Carnegie Hall in 2001 to critical acclaim. Her numerous other accolades include the 2005 Hawaii Music Award in Classical Music, first prize in piano at the 2002 Sorantin International Young Artist Competition, the 1995 Sterling Scholar Award in Music, the Honolulu Symphony Orchestra Scholarship Competition, the Morning Music Club Scholarship Competition, as well as the Paderewski Medal and the Cliburn Family and Liberace Memorial Scholarships from the National Guild of Piano Teachers.

Ms. Nikae’s debut solo CD, Fantasies, featuring the music of Scriabin, Granados, Falla, and Liszt, was released on the Tempora label in 2006. Her engaging personality and many talents have been widely recognized by the media, and her performances are frequently broadcast on national and international radio and television. An active educator, she has given masterclasses and lectures at conservatories and universities throughout the US, Asia, and Europe. She is also the founder and artistic director of The Renaissance Academy in Hawaii, a non-profit educational organization dedicated to expanding the educational and cultural possibilities of the Hawaii community.

Ms. Nikae began her musical education at the age of 2 with her mother and her first public performance was at the age of three. Her debut as orchestral soloist came at the age of eight with the Honolulu Symphony Orchestra, and at the age of thirteen, she performed her news-making solo recital debut in Japan. Her teachers have included Martin Canin of The Juilliard School and the late Alexander Slobodyanik, and she also pursued a degree in European History at Columbia University. Her official website at www.gracenikae.com provides a personal and interactive visit with the artist.