Cateen Lab Summer Music Room: Hayato Sumino Masterclass and Audition Details

Pianist Hayato Sumino will host a special educational event series, “Cateen Lab: Summer Music Room,” this August in Tokyo and Osaka. The program offers students a 15-minute direct coaching session with Sumino, providing a platform for the artist to share his musical perspectives and advice. The events are scheduled for August 19, 2026, at Suntory Hall Blue Rose in Tokyo, and August 25, 2026, at The Symphony Hall in Osaka.

Did You Know? Unlike a standard concert, these sessions are not performances by Hayato Sumino. The event is strictly designed as an educational opportunity for students, and no solo performance by the artist is scheduled.

How to Apply for a Lesson

Participation is limited to students who are members of the “Cateen Lab” YouTube membership or have a family member who holds the subscription. Applicants must submit a video of their performance, recorded between April 1, 2026, and July 5, 2026, via a “limited” YouTube link. The submission period runs from June 19, 2026, at 18:00 to July 5, 2026, at 23:59.

The selection process relies on a video screening, with results expected to be announced in mid-July 2026. Applicants are prohibited from editing their audio or using effects. For those recording new footage, the organizers recommend including clear shots of the hands and pedals, with smartphone videos filmed in landscape orientation.

Event Logistics and Auditing

While students apply for the coaching spots, the general public and other students may purchase tickets to audit the sessions. Tickets are priced at 1,000 yen (tax included) and are available only to “Cateen Lab” members or “8810” official fan club members. There will be no general ticket sales for these events.

Expert Insight: The requirement for video submissions to be uploaded as “limited” content on YouTube suggests a focus on privacy for the young performers. By restricting the audience to members, the event maintains a controlled, secure environment for students receiving feedback in a public hall setting.

What Happens Next?

Following the selection process in mid-July, successful applicants will receive individual notifications via email. Attendees should be prepared for potential schedule adjustments, as the organizers have noted that the end times for the events may fluctuate. Because these sessions will be filmed for potential use on social media and the “Cateen Lab” platform, participants may be captured on camera, with organizers planning to use masking if requested.

A possible next step for the organizers involves the implementation of an official resale service for ticket holders who cannot attend. Detailed information regarding this service is expected to be released at a later date, though attendees are reminded that tickets are non-refundable if the resale process is unsuccessful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can non-students attend the event?
Yes, tickets for auditing are available to non-students, provided they are members of the “Cateen Lab” or Hayato Sumino’s “8810” fan club.

Is there a specific genre requirement for the audition pieces?
No, applicants may choose any genre for their audition performance.

Can I change my application details after submitting?
Changes or cancellations can be made via the “Edit Response” feature in the automated confirmation email or the reservation screen, but no changes will be accepted after the application deadline.

What aspects of musical performance do you think benefit most from direct professional feedback?