Doors at 7.00pm

Aware of it or not, you are more than likely to be familiar with the remarkable work of Ryuichi Sakamoto, thanks to his many award-winning soundtracks. His score for The Last Emperor won an Oscar, while his well-known music for Merry Christmas, Mister Lawrence gained a BAFTA, but in fact, the Japanese composer, pianist, conductor, arranger and producer has made a career of crossing musical and technological boundaries. Never one to mark time, he continues to push the limits of his artistry, fusing genres, styles, and technologies to create new and exciting directions in musical expression.

Since his first album more than three decades ago, Sakamoto has become an international sensation, both solo and with his Yellow Magic Orchestra. His status has given rise to fruitful collaborations with many other stars, such as David Bowie, David Sylvian, Iggy Pop and Youssou N’dour. The brand new, 12-track album Playing The Piano is, however, simplicity itself. As the name suggests, it features Sakamoto as solo pianist. His evocative miniature tone-poems make for a relaxing yet musically stimulating delight; a highly accessible introduction to the artistry of one of the most extraordinary musicians of our time.