Transcending Boundaries: How Music Became a Universal Language for a Japanese Percussionist

For Mai Tadokoro Hessel, a timpani player with the Sherman Symphony Orchestra, music has been a transformative force, helping her bridge cultural and linguistic divides as she transitioned from Japan to the United States. Her journey, marked by a lifelong passion for music and a relentless pursuit of excellence, serves as a testament to the power of art to connect people across borders.

Unlocking the Rhythm of Life

A Musical Upbringing

Mai Tadokoro Hessel's love for music was nurtured from an early age, thanks to her mother's role as a music teacher in Japan. Exposed to classical concerts and surrounded by the sounds of the piano and flute, Hessel's musical journey began at the tender age of 6, when she started taking piano lessons. Her path to percussion, however, took an unexpected turn when her band director recognized her natural rhythm and placed her in the percussion section during junior high.

Discovering the Versatility of Percussion

Hessel's initial reluctance to become a percussionist quickly gave way to a deep appreciation for the art form. The wide array of instruments and the diverse roles percussion plays in ensembles captivated her, and she continued to hone her skills throughout her high school years, even performing in Canberra, Australia, a life-changing experience that solidified her decision to pursue music further.

Bridging Cultures through Music

As Hessel transitioned to college in the United States, music remained a constant companion, serving as a communication tool when her English proficiency was limited. Performing in college bands allowed her to connect with her peers and express herself, even as she navigated the challenges of adapting to a new culture. Ultimately, Hessel's passion for music led her to declare it as her primary focus, earning a series of impressive degrees, including a PhD in Musical Arts from the University of Kansas.

Joining the Sherman Symphony Orchestra

Hessel's journey with the Sherman Symphony Orchestra (SSO) began when her husband, Eric Hessel, joined the orchestra's horn section. Recognizing the opportunity, Hessel approached the SSO's director, Dan Dominick, and was welcomed into the ensemble, initially as a section percussionist before taking on the coveted timpani position in 2018.

Embracing the Diverse Repertoire

Hessel has found great joy in the SSO's diverse programming, which ranges from classical standards to lesser-known gems. She admires Dominick's ability to curate engaging concerts that captivate the audience, including the thousands of fifth-graders who attend the orchestra's annual Children's Concerts each November.

A Multifaceted Musician

In addition to her work with the SSO, Hessel is a sought-after freelance musician, performing with a variety of ensembles, including the Lone Star Wind Orchestra, Richardson Symphony Orchestra, McKinney Philharmonic, Dallas Asian American Youth Orchestra, and Voices of Fort Worth. She and her husband also collaborate as a duo, Spiral Staircase, with their performances featured as part of the SSO's virtual releases during the pandemic.

The Transformative Power of Music

Hessel credits music with helping her overcome language barriers and connect with people worldwide. She believes that music is a universal language, one that gave her a voice and boosted her confidence when she was unsure of herself. Beyond its communicative power, Hessel's musical training has also instilled in her valuable problem-solving, analytical thinking, and perseverance skills, which have served her well both in her professional and personal life.

Dedication to the Craft

Despite her impressive accomplishments, Hessel remains committed to the daily practice and study of her craft. As a student, she dedicated up to 8 hours a day to honing her skills, a level of dedication that was essential to her success in pursuing a doctoral degree in music. Even now, as a professional musician juggling various responsibilities, Hessel continues to prioritize practice, focusing on efficiency and organization to make the most of her available time.

Embracing Life Beyond Music

When she's not immersed in the world of music, Hessel enjoys indulging in her other passions, such as photography and editing photos of her children. She also delights in her husband's culinary creations, exploring the diverse culinary offerings of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.