One of the greatest uses of the ACMP Directory is making new friends on your travels, who share your passion for chamber music!

If you are planning a trip somewhere, it’s also a good idea to check if ACMP has a member of its International Ambassadors Council (IAC) or North American Outreach Council (NAOC) in or near your destination.

New York City pianist Nicholas King just made a trip to Tokyo, Japan – connecting with local players through the ACMP Directory and with the help of Sayoko Yamashita, who represents ACMP in Japan on its International Ambassadors Council. (If you live in or around New York City or are planning a visit, make sure that you get in touch with Nicholas, who also just happens to be ACMP’s New York City representative on the NAOC!)

I got in touch with Nick after his return from Japan and asked him some questions about himself and his recent adventure.

Interview with Nicholas King

ACMP: How did you get involved in chamber music and why did you become an ACMP member?

Nick: I’ve been playing piano since the age of three and attended various conservatories throughout North America. I was introduced to ACMP by Richard Weinert, pianist and current chairman.

ACMP: What kinds of chamber music experiences and relationships are you seeking?

Nick: I’m looking to play any and all types of chamber music! I love duos, trios, quartets, quintets, 4-hand music… you get the idea.

ACMP: What are some highlights of your life outside of music?

Nick: Outside of music I bake quite a bit – cakes mostly. I’m also on the hunt for quiet cafés to read my books.

ACMP: What are your favorite pieces of chamber music to play?

Nick: Oooh this is tough. I’m partial to the Dvorak piano quintet – it has an amazingly fun piano part. If I drink enough wine I’m usually brave enough to try the Tchaikovsky Trio.

ACMP: Could you please share any particularly memorable experiences you had playing chamber music?

Nick: I was once attempting to play through the Brahms violin sonata No. 3 – the piano part is tough, so halfway through a pianist friend jumped in and took over. He also had a hard time, so a third pianist jumped in and was able to finish the piece. Kudos to the violinist for not getting lost!

ACMP: Have you used the ACMP directory to meet musicians near where you live?

Nick: I used the directory to meet musicians near where my parents live – in San Diego, California. It was so much fun! I’m always amazed by the hospitality and kindness that ACMP members provide.

ACMP: Have you ever used the ACMP directory to meet musicians while traveling in other countries?

Nick: I used the directory to meet people while traveling to Tokyo. It was such a great way to connect with other musicians. I made some amazing friends and have already planned my next trip back!

ACMP: Can you tell us anything about your recent trip to Tokyo?

Nick: This was my first trip to Tokyo, and I managed to meet with a handful of ACMP members to read through chamber music. I was surprised and touched by the hospitality provided by my fellow musicians – I made some great friends and enjoyed six evenings of music, food, and drinks. Visiting a new country can be daunting – especially when you don’t speak the language. I can’t imagine what my experience would’ve been like were it not for the ACMP community, I am so grateful to have met such wonderful people. I’m already planning my next trip to Tokyo!

Connect with Nick on your next visit to New York City – maybe you can play some music with him.

(He might even make a cake!)

Meanwhile, Nick is also the Founder and Director of After Arts, a community of over 500 professionals in business, law, finance, healthcare, and tech who share a passion for playing and listening to music. They regularly hold events with prominent artists and leaders including Wynton Marsalis, Joshua Bell, Clive Gillison, and others. They believe that having an artistic background can benefit an individual regardless of their professional trajectory. Their bi-monthly events aim to help our members grow both personally and professionally through mentorship and networking opportunities. They also host a yearly showcase in Carnegie Hall. You can email nick@theafterartsgroup with any questions.