Classical Gassing — November 16, 2025

This week’s episode is a heartfelt departure from our usual backstage banter. We dedicate this special recording to Sachiko (“Sashko”) Murata, our November 8th soloist, who delivered an extraordinary performance of the Strauss Oboe Concerto — and then sent Music Director Paul Surapine a deeply personal reflection about her artistic journey.

At Paul’s request, Sachiko recorded her story in her own voice.
What follows is an intimate audio letter about family, identity, artistic struggle, ego, community, and the moment during last week’s concert when everything changed for her.

Sachiko shares:

• how she was handed her first oboe by her father

• the painful years of auditioning across the U.S.

• why she once felt she had “failed” as a musician

• the artistic stubbornness (“kodawari”) that held her back

• the realization — during rehearsal with CHSO — that transformed her playing

• the joy of becoming “one gear” in the beautifully crafted Claflin Hill watch

It’s honest, vulnerable, and profoundly inspiring.
If you’ve ever loved an instrument, chased a dream, or felt shaped by the people who make music with you, this episode will stay with you.

Learn more about our orchestra and upcoming concerts at claflinhill.org.

#oboe, Strauss, #classical_music, #orchestra_life, #musicianstories, #ClaflinHill, #auditionstruggles, #inspiration