Momoko Shioki

Music Excellence Project

I believe that how we use our bodies is important when playing the piano. Time and again, I have witnessed how physical movement and bodily awareness are deeply connected to producing the sound I envision.

Driven by this idea, I joined a research project for musicians called Dynaformics, which explores the relationship between physical movement and musical expression by measuring and analyzing performers' body use.

My goal is to translate the insights from this research into practical tools that can support musicians in real-world settings. To that end, I have also been involved in developing physical education programs. I serve as both assistant coach and data analyst at the Piano Academy Program at our laboratory, guiding students in how to use their bodies more effectively in performance.

Spending time face-to-face with performers to consider how to use the body to achieve the desired sound has been a valuable learning experience for me as well.

I will continue to pursue this exploration, always asking: “What does it take to realize the sound I envision?” and “How can I use my body to get closer to it?” I hope to share this process with as many music learners as possible and help build a solid foundation for performance.