Liner notes from Takeshi Asai, jazz pianist and composer, de trois cités records recording artist Takeshi Asai Solo: Live in New York In the fall and winter of 2015, I was given a great opportunity to present two solo piano concerts in New York City. It was my first time to perform an entire concert with a solo performance on the piano and I was slightly intimidated. But, as soon as I hit the first note, the music began playing itself, and the energy from the audience surprised me. The song list includes traditional jazz standards along with modern hit songs by the Beatles and Joni Mitchell, and my original compositions featuring a new song called Moonlit Night. The performance and the live taping may not have had the perfection of a studio recording, but after a few months, I found the beauty of the music was still there. So, here it is my deepest honor to present my recording of the live solo piano concerts. I hope you enjoy. Takeshi Asai, February 14, 2016