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  • Franz Schubert: Sonata in A major, D.959: In Honor of Robert Schumann's Birthday

    Experience the profound beauty of Schubert's Sonata in A Major, D. 959, in Rachel’s latest YouTube release—shared in celebration of Robert Schumann, to whom this sonata was posthumously dedicated by the publisher Diabelli.

    Composed during the final months of Schubert’s life, the work stands as one of his crowning achievements—an expansive and deeply expressive masterpiece that exemplifies the lyrical imagination and structural daring of his late style. From the majestic opening movement to the haunting introspection of the Andantino, the playful Scherzo, and the radiant final Rondo, this sonata traces a breathtaking emotional arc.

    Rachel’s interpretation offers fresh insight into the sonata’s shifting landscapes of intimacy and grandeur, honoring both Schubert's genius and Schumann's enduring legacy.

  • A woman playing the piano with text overlay 'Rachel Naomi Kudo Plays Fryderyk Chopin Ballade No. 1 Op. 23'.

    New Recording Release: Chopin’s Ballade No. 1 in Honor of His Birthday

    In celebration of Chopin’s birthday, Rachel presents a new recording of Ballade No. 1 in G minor, Op. 23. Baptism records suggest he was born on February 22, 1810—making this a perfect occasion to honor his legacy.

    One of Chopin’s most revered works, the G minor Ballade is a masterpiece of narrative and emotion, blending poetic lyricism with breathtaking virtuosity. In this latest recording, Rachel offers a deeply expressive interpretation that captures the piece's intimate and dramatic elements.

    Listen to the full recording here: https://youtu.be/cvvUd8iwn58

    Join in celebrating Chopin’s genius by listening and sharing your thoughts.

  • A handwritten sheet of musical notation with ink splotches over a cityscape background, bathed in sunlight.

    New Creative Performance-Score Music Video to Celebrate Mozart's 269th Birthday

    To celebrate Mozart’s 269th birthday on January 27, 2025, Rachel has prepared a new performance-score music video of his Fantasia in C minor, K.475. This project aims to bring a fresh perspective to Mozart's masterpiece. The video showcases the intricacies of the composition manuscript while highlighting the depth and brilliance of the music. Rachel invites viewers to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Mozart, experiencing the Fantasia not just as a piece of music but as a living, breathing performance.

  • A woman in a floral dress standing in front of the modern architectural building of the Knight Center for Music Innovation, with clear skies above.

    Juror at the 2025 U.S. National Chopin Competition

    Rachel was a jury member at the 11th National U.S. Chopin Competition, held in Miami, Florida, in January 2025. Her expertise in music and performance provided a valuable perspective to the panel assessing talented pianists from across the nation. The competition showcased the artistry and technical skill of the participants, promoting a spirit of excellence and dedication to classical music. In her role as a jury member, including her work on the screening jury, Rachel played an active role in the evaluation process that identifies and nurtures emerging talent in the music world.

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