Born in Japan, Hiko began studying piano at age four under his mother’s guidance before moving to the U.S. at six. Over a decade of focused study, he earned top placements in regional competitions, including second place in the Florida State MTA Concerto Competition.

While formal lessons ended at 16 followed by a 20-year hiatus after high school, his relationship with the piano came full circle in 2021 upon watching the International Chopin Piano Competition. Inspired to return, he sought a more mature perspective and approach to his practice, learning the majority of his Chopin repertoire after 40.

Today, playing piano provides a fulfilling outlet alongside his engineering career and family as he shares his journey on social media.