[0] Tateno delivers dramatic recitals.

Izumi Tateno piano recital Kioi Hall, Tokyo, Nov. 9

"Maverick" might be too strong a word to describe pianist Izumi Tateno, but considering the sheer number of lesser-known musical gems he has introduced to the world, perhaps the word is not so far off the mark after all.

Tateno, who turned 65 on Nov. 10, is responsible for the Japanese premieres of several important piano works of the 20th century, including Messiaen's Vingt regards sur l'enfant Jesus, and the world premieres and recordings of numerous works by Japanese composers. He is currently celebrating the 40th anniversary of the start of his career with 13 performances in five cities across Japan. The tour started in September and runs through December.

A resident of …