Nao Kawashima

I am an exceptionally proficient accompanist with a substantial reservoir of experience collaborating with a diverse array of professional performers. I possess exceptional abilities in both sight-reading and absolute pitch. I am highly adaptable to different instruments and voices, as well as a diverse range of musical styles. I am passionate about providing dynamic accompaniment.

While I do not possess a master's degree, my extensive experience and a history of positive interactions with performers, along with my impeccable performance record, serve as testament to my exceptional proficiency in accompanying any performer.

The aim of this study is to examine my experiences as an accompanist.

I have served as an accompanist for the voices and instruments of the Jim Henson Visual and Performing Arts Department at Northwestern High School since the previous academic year, for the choir and strings at Eleanor Roosevelt High School for a decade, for the choir at Elizabeth Seton High School for three years, and for all instruments at DeMatha Catholic High School since last year. 

In my capacity as an accompanist, I have had the privilege of serving as a musical accompanist for the Maryland State Solo and Ensemble for over a decade.

In addition to my work with student ensembles, I have also served as an accompanist for professional performers at a range of venues, including the members of the Friday Morning Club at non-school venues. 

Before the onset of the pandemic, I held the position of vocal department accompanist at Morgan State University.

My entire tenure at the institution was characterized by extensive collaborative experiences with numerous students in a variety of musical settings. The faculty members provided guidance on how to excel as a musical accompanist in their respective classrooms.
I had the opportunity to gain insights into the nuances of different instrumental families, including woodwind instruments, strings, and voices, as well as an appreciation for diverse musical traditions. We engaged in weekly performances, which served as invaluable training grounds.