As I reflect upon the almost 40 years during which I have appeared as performer in Japan, I have come to realize that the hundred of concerts given before Japanese audiences have become an integral part of my artistic life. How much poorer my life in music would have been had I not had the artistic satisfaction of integrating with one of the most knowledgeable of audiences in today's musical scene, the Japanese music public. I am privileged to appear in Japan again, this time celebrating my seventieth birthday year. I thank the Japanese music lovers for their loyalty, enthusiasm and devoted support. May I always prove worthy of their trust!