Presently residing in Las Vegas, Nevada, Pierce Kagari Emata has presented his popular Concerts & Conversation (TM) series throughout the western and Midwestern U.S., in addition to orchestral appearances. He received his Bachelor and Master's degrees in Piano Performance at Indiana University, coaching with notable concert artists such as Alfonso Montecino, John Ogdon, and Gyorgy Sebok. In addition he has coached with John Simms and Istvan Nadas. He appeared twice in the "Sunday Afternoon at Cantigny" series and the nationally broadcast Dame Myra Hess Memorial Concerts, both in Chicago. His performances have also been broadcast over NPR affiliate stations in Washington, Nevada Public Radio, and South Dakota Public Radio.

From its construction in 1914 until a catastrophic fire in 1984, the Opera House was the center of community life and lifelong education in Lead, South Dakota. The Historic Opera House Society is dedicated to its restoration, use, and preservation for future generations, in the belief that it is the cornerstone for the preservation, renewal, and development of our community.
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The society’s focus is on fundraising to acquire funds as necessary to complete the restoration of the theater and recreation center building to bring back “The Jewel of the Black Hills” to its original 1914 glory. While these efforts continue, the Society makes use of the facility to the extent possible to generate revenue and advance its mission.