Acclaimed pianist and YouTube sensation Sumino Kateen, also known as Cateen, shares her winding path of musical mastery and personal growth, showcased in her recently released documentary titled "Sumino Kateen Documentary Film: Uncertain Trajectory," available since February 28, 2025.
Born in 1995 and hailing from Chiba Prefecture, Japan, Sumino's musical roots trace back to her mother, Tomoko Kadono, who has been instrumental as both her mentor and inspiration. Kadono, a seasoned piano instructor, has produced more than 100 competition winners throughout her career, embedding Sumino with the values of diligence and creativity from a young age.
Unlike her brother, who was less inclined toward the literary world, Sumino was captivated by stories and the fantastical realms they conveyed. Since childhood, she frequented the library, borrowing books at every opportunity, particularly those filled with adventure and fantasy. "I recall her devouring titles like 'Momo' by Ende and 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland' by Lewis Carroll," Kadono reminisces, adding, "She often asked for books as gifts, proving her passion for reading was no fleeting interest. These traits likely mirror my own childhood love for literature, where my report cards often noted me as a 'literary girl.'"
While Sumino's early interests gravitated toward literature, her dedication to the piano began when she started learning from her mother. "I never wanted to quit piano or indulge in other games. The joy of performing on stage was far too motivating!" she reflects on her years as she prepared for competitions throughout elementary school, diligently practicing during summers.
Distinct from her dedicated classical training, Sumino also explored various genres, including pop and jazz, during her junior high school years. "Even if I mightn't have been focused solely on classical music back then, I found joy wherever I could," she notes, illustrating her versatile approach to music.
Sumino's academic achievements are equally impressive. She attended prestigious schools like Kaisei Junior and Senior High School and later graduated with her undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Tokyo. Balancing her academic pursuits with her music career has been no easy feat. She candidly acknowledges the difficulty of maintaining both paths, citing experiences leading her to decide to abandon research altogether. "At some point, it becomes clear you can't juggle both, and I realized my destiny was elsewhere. I had to focus on my music," she explains.
Reflecting on her studies abroad, such as her six-month stint for research purposes in France, Sumino shares the challenges she faced. Adapting to life overseas brought about feelings of anxiety and apprehension, challenging her comfort. "Initially, I felt out of place. Every connection I made seemed like I had to announce my presence rather than letting it happen naturally, as I'm accustomed to back home," she recounts.
It was not until she embraced the idea of change and adaptation around 2022, when she arrived back overseas, mainly to New York, where competition and connection are fierce, enhancing her resolve to seek individuality and novelty. "Living here makes you realize the need to stand out; it shapes your mindset too," she asserts.
Sumino's life is as much about nurturing creativity as it is about honing skill. The documentary “Uncertain Trajectory” explores not only her performances and accolades, which include triumphing at the Pitina Piano Competition as well as debuting on the prestigious stage of Royal Albert Hall, but also her dedication to growth and self-expression. It captures the essence of her character and chronicled progression, shedding light on both her successes and the obstacles faced along the way.
Scheduled for her solo debut at Carnegie Hall in November 2025, Sumino's aspirations are high. Her captivating performances have already attracted audiences worldwide, with her recent concert at the Nippon Budokan gathering 13,000 attendees—an unprecedented achievement within the classical music genre. Such milestones reflect just how deeply she resonates with her audience and her unwavering dedication to her craft.
Sumino's mother, Tomoko, shares insights from her child-rearing philosophy, highlighting the importance of incorporating passion within practice. "I encouraged her to think of stories to match the music she played, allowing those narratives to enrich her performances and make practice enjoyable. This engagement has led to beautifully enhanced expressions of creativity on stage," she explains. Mirai, Sumino’s sister, who also finds joy within storytelling, frequently writes her own narratives, bridging the gap between her love for literature and performance.
With the release of "Uncertain Trajectory" illuminating her life story, many are now awakened to Sumino Kateen's extraordinary talent and resilience. The film captures her unique blend of artistry, determination, and willingness to evolve, inspiring many aspiring musicians and creatives across the globe.
Sumino's exciting path reflects her multifaceted lifestyle encompassing education, artistry, and personal growth, fueled by her unyielding love for piano and storytelling. Her story resonates with anyone who embraces their passion and seeks to pursue greatness, encouraging generations of aspiring artists to dream and strive for their own uncertain trajectories.