Sayaka Shoji

"Shoji and the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra performed (Prokofiev’s Second Violin Concerto) in perfect synchronisation, with Shoji's sound gaining more momentum as the rhythmic intensity increased. Her sound was beautifully romantic in the slow movement and she demonstrated her extraordinary musicality in the finale."  (Ongaku Gendai, March, 2013)

"[In] Prokofiev’s Violin Concert No.2, the young Japanese violinist Sayaka Shoji could show all her splendour, with a coarse, almost harsh sound, wonderful legato and extraordinary definition." (El Correo De Andalucia, March, 2013)

"Prokofiev’s Concerto No.2 for violin is a real wonder, especially when the soloist is someone as unorthodox and virtuoso as Sayaka Shoji, who gave us an immense Prokofiev, marking the strong contrast between the first two movements and the third – all of which require a tremendous virtuosity." (ABC de Sevilla, March, 2013) 

“Sayaka Shoji is a remarkable newcomer in the always-moving violin universe. Shoji strikes primarily by her intense playing and its unique sound that manages to touch the soul directly.” (Opus Klassiek, February 2013) 

"Young Japanese violinist Sayaka Shoji’s heart-on-sleeve approach reminds us that this is a concerto surprisingly rich in bittersweet melody. She’s especially good in the lyrical slow movement; proof that Shostakovich’s gift for a memorable tune didn’t desert him in his final decade." (theartsdesk.com, April 2012)

“The sound the tiny violinist drew from her priceless instrument was so ravishing and well-crafted as to put many a violinist performing today in the shade. She demonstrated the daunting technique that helped her win first prize in the prestigious International Paganini Competition at the age of 16 (the first Japanese and youngest violinist to do so). However, her technical arsenal was totally allied to the needs of the music, as in the way she brought out lines in her double stops and negotiated smooth, perfect octaves.”  (Music in Cincinnati, October 2009)

“Technically secure and thrillingly passionate.”  (The Guardian, February 2008)