Godzilla fanatics and music lovers are in for an extraordinary afternoon as the Japan America Society of Chicago (JASC) proudly presents “The Maestro and the Monster” on Saturday, November 21, 2026 at the Nichols Concert Hall. Featuring an exceptional lineup of acclaimed Chicago-area classical artists, the concert promises a captivating program exploring powerful musical narratives and virtuosic performances. Doors will open at 3:00 PM, music at 3:30 PM.
Featured Artists
● Reiko Yamada: Principal Keyboardist of the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra
and faculty member at the Music Institute of Chicago, Yamada is celebrated
for her expressive interpretations and deep dedication to contemporary and
classical repertoire. Notably, Yamada studied piano directly under legendary
Japanese composer Akira Ifukube at the Tokyo College of Music for four
years. Her close mentorship under Ifukube deeply influenced her musical
philosophy and inspired her mastery of his works, including his striking piece
Ritmica Ostinata, which she champions worldwide.
● Patrick Godon: A versatile and accomplished artist who performs regularly as
a principal and orchestral keyboardist with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra,
Godon is also the founder and Artistic Director of the International Chamber
Artists (ICA) and Music Director of The Tower Chorale.
● Meghan Guse: A talented soprano whose diverse performance background
spans operatic roles, chamber music with groups like the Vox 3 Collective, and
an accomplished professional career balancing classical performance with
software engineering.
Event Details
● What: The Maestro and the Monster Concert
● When: Saturday, November 21, 2026 | Doors at 3:00 PM, Concert at 3:30 PM
● Where: Nichols Concert Hall, 1490 Chicago Avenue, Evanston, IL 60201
● Tickets:
○ $30 – Members
○ $40 – Non-Members
○ $10 – Students
○ Tickets can be purchased online through the JASC website.
Join the JASC for an unforgettable afternoon celebrating world-class musicianship, rich
historical legacies, and brilliant artistry.
For more information, please visit www.jaschicago.org
