Masumi Timson is a performer and instructor of the Koto and Shamisen – traditional musical instruments of Japan. She holds a Master’s Degree in Music with a specialization in the Koto and Shamisen from Seiha Conservatory of Japanese Traditional Music, one of the most prestigious Koto schools in Japan. Masumi plays both classical and contemporary Koto music, and also sings Japanese classical songs with Koto and Shamisen accompaniment. She also enjoys collaborating with various western musical instruments to explore a wide range of musical genres, from jazz and tango, to western classical compositions by Bach and Mozart. Masumi has participated in many recordings of Pink Martini, and has performed with the band at various venues around the world, including Carnegie Hall, the Hollywood Bowl, and the Grand Rex Theatre in Paris. Masumi is also a Japanese language professor and currently teaches Japanese language and culture at Chemeketa Community College in Salem, Oregon.

Crystal Zimmerman teaches piano classes and individual piano lessons, as well as courses in music technology at Willamette University. Throughout her studies she has been the recipient of several awards and scholarships, receiving the University of Oregon Outstanding Scholar in Musicology and the University Outstanding Scholar in Music in 2010. She maintains an active performance schedule, frequently performing in collaborative, chamber music, and solo recitals. She also regularly provides preconcert lectures for the Oregon Symphony and lectures for Oregon Music Teachers Association.