Hikari Kikuchi graduated from California State University Fullerton with a Bachelors in Kinesiology. She began music at the age of 5, learning piano under the instructions of Ms. Akiko Hasunuma, the president of the Piano Teacher’s Music Guild for more than 12 years. Focusing mostly on classical music, she has performed in many music festivals over California and studied music theory while completing the Certificate of Merit Program to an advanced level. She intends to earn her Masters in Music in the next few years.
Besides piano, Hikari has more than 10 years of experience playing trombone. She competed in marching band tournaments such as the SCSBOA and has performed in many jazz band festivals. She continued her musical passion through college by participating in University Band.
Ms. Hikari has an appreciation towards music for its ability to express emotions while building other characteristics such as confidence, patience, and discipline. She hopes inspire her students and build a safe space for students to express themselves musically. She is fluent in both Japanese and English.