From Past to Present
Introducing Howard Hori, a Southern California native whose musical odyssey commenced at the tender age of five. Howard's artistic journey commenced with accordion lessons, igniting a fire within him that would lead him down a path of self-discovery and musical prowess.
Driven by an insatiable love for melody, Howard embarked on a personal quest to master various instruments, teaching himself the intricacies of guitar, bass, piano, and drums. Throughout his formative years in high school and college, he immersed himself in numerous pop bands and choirs, diligently honing his musical gifts and refining his artistry. It was during this time that he achieved his dream gig—an exhilarating two-year tour as the bassist for a couple of show bands. However, life had a twist in store for him.Amidst the crescendo of success, Howard was confronted with a challenging diagnosis: a degenerative eye disease that gradually stole his peripheral vision and left him with night blindness. Navigating the night club scene became increasingly arduous, prompting Howard to set aside his beloved music in favor of more traditional employment, driven by the desire to provide for his growing family.
Undeterred by the shifting tides, Howard dedicated himself to a desk job during the day, seeking mobility and adaptive training to adapt to his changing circumstances. Not one to settle, he returned to school, pursuing a degree while grappling with the diminishing light that once guided his way. As his sight continued to fade, he made the difficult decision to relinquish his driver's license, embracing the extended hours and challenges of public transportation.
Through years, Howard's indomitable spirit shone brightly, buoyed by the unwavering support of his devoted wife and children. His unyielding determination propelled him to graduate with honors, a testament to his work ethic and unwavering dedication. At this pivotal juncture in his life, Howard resolved to relocate his family to Oregon, seeking a more nurturing environment in which to raise his children and foster their family goals. Eleven years after Howard's professional music career came to a halt, a new chapter unfolded. A church in need of a music minister appreciated Howard's diverse musical background, recognizing him as the perfect fit for the role. His enjoyment of music took on a higher purpose as he faithfully served in this capacity for the next three decades.
Even as complete blindness remains eminent, Howard's thirst for knowledge and adaptability remained unquenchable. He sought out extensive training on various screen reading software, ensuring that he could navigate the digital realm with ease. Now, entering a more relaxed phase of retirement, Howard relishes his time spent traveling alongside his wife, indulging in culinary adventures, and creating a dynamic cooking repertoire.
Join Howard on his continuing journey, where resilience and a deep-rooted love for music intertwine to create a symphony of inspiration. Through his artistry, Howard invites you along to celebrate the profound joy and love that music brings to our lives!
