Arts & Events

Tomoko Sakai, a piano teacher from Japan, is coordinating a concert and bakesale to benefit victims of Japan's recent earthquake and tsunami. With donations of talent and treats from her many students, Sakai hopes to raise money to donate to the relief fund in her homeland. 

Born in Osaka, Japan, Sakai moved to the U.S. eighteen years ago. Her children, Momoko and Haruko, were raised in the U.S., therefore her roots in both countries run deep. 

Sakai's sister, Naoko Kanagawa, also a piano teacher, and brother Yoshifumi Sakai, the owner of many flower shops, live in Osaka, Japan. For a tense 38 hours her brother went missing. Although she was relieved to know he and her family were safe, she is aware of the millions of people who are suffering and need help. 

`"My piano students will donate an afternoon of musical offering and I hope the community will come out to enjoy the performances and contribute to our fundraising efforts," Sakai hopes. 

Sakai will donate 100% of money collected to the Red Cross Japan Earthquake and Tsunami Relief Fund. 

Benefit for Japan will be held at the East Bay Waldorf School in El Sobrante on Sunday, April 3 at 2pm. A $10 donation at the door is requested and there will also be delicious baked goods for sale.