In April and May 2015, Japanese pianist Noriko Ogawa will perform two Jamie’s Concerts in the UK; one in Manchester and another in London. Jamie’s Concerts are designed specifically for parents and carers of children with autism, although they are also open to people interested in autism too. The aim of these unique events is to give carers the rare chance to relax and listen in a supportive and calm environment, as well as provide the opportunity for carers to meet other carers.
Noriko says:
“Jamie’s Concerts are designed to fit in with the busy timetables of parents and carers of children and adults with autism, to be a sanctuary of sorts. I wanted to offer brief respite for hardworking people devoted to their children. To be able to relax and unwind is rare for many of those caring for children and adults with autism and it is my hope that these concerts offer a little calm, a chance to regroup then go forward with renewed spirit and strength.”
The first 2015 Jamie’s Concert will be on 22nd April in the Barbirolli Room at The Bridgewater Hall, as part of the hall’s Ravel and Rachmaninov Festival, of which Noriko is associate artist. The second will be on 5 May at Milton Court Concert Hall, Guildhall School.
Noriko will also perform an evening concert on 9th April at St Peter’s Eaton Square as part of the Eaton Square Concerts Spring 2015 Series. The concert will help raise awareness about autism and Jamie’s Concerts, and will also be the official launch of Noriko as a Cultural Ambassador for the National Autistic Society.
Noriko chatted about her wonderful charity work in an interview recorded at Steinway Hall in 2013:
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Melanie Spanswick has written and published a wide range of courses, anthologies, examination syllabuses, and text books, including Play it again: PIANO (published by Schott Music). This best-selling graded, progressive piano course contains a large selection of repertoire featuring a huge array of styles and genres, with copious practice tips and suggestions for every piece.
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Melanie Spanswick 