Born in Osaka, Japan, Kayo Ishimaru Fleisher’s musical path has spanned continents and captivated audiences worldwide. She is the principal harpist for the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, and a graduate of the prestigious Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique de Paris in 1983. She joined the Jacksonville Symphony as principal harpist in 1987, where she continues to mesmerize audiences with her virtuosity.
Ishimaru Fleisher’s personal and professional life intertwines with that of her husband, Dickie Fleisher, principal harpist of the Naples Philharmonic. Together, they’ve performed in harmony for numerous symphonic works requiring two harps, even sharing the stage with Dickie’s father, renowned pianist Leon Fleisher.
Her career also extends to summer performances with the Grant Park Symphony in Chicago and collaborations with major orchestras in Japan, including the NHK Symphony. An advocate for chamber music, Ishimaru Fleisher boasts an extensive repertoire of two-harp arrangements and is an active member of the St. Johns Chamber Players.
From the stages of Japan to the United States, her remarkable journey in music continues to inspire harmonies that resonate across cultures.
