One of the brighter lights in the preservation of Japanese music is showcased here, with , a European player who performs primarily older works. The repertoire is entirely , with three works from (one of the 17th century forefathers of the modern styles of koto playing) and four from , a more recent composer for the instrument but generally within the constraints. The playing is exceptional in all respects and is worth hearing. doesn't necessarily have the speed of a or the grace of a more -directed player such as , but she has enough aspects of both ends that the sound comes gently, but keeps up with where the compositions are meant to go. ~ Adam Greenberg